APS

APS is the most advanced spray gun technology, combining the benefits of HVLP and high-pressure systems. It sprays with minimal paint drift at lower pressure much like HVLP. At the same time it also handles work at higher pressure for the rapid application of thicker paints – all with a single all-round gun.

What is APS technology and how does it work?

APS technology is a revolutionary approach in painting. These spray guns work efficiently across a wide pressure range – typically about 2 to 5 bar. At lower pressures APS behaves much like HVLP, creating less mist (overspray) and achieving a high transfer efficiency of paint onto the surface. That means less paint is wasted into the air and more of it ends up where it should. At the same time APS allows the working pressure to be raised when a larger area has to be covered quickly or higher-viscosity materials applied. Even at higher pressure an APS gun maintains precise atomisation and an even coat without any loss of quality.

HVLP vs. LVLP vs. APS: Classic HVLP (High Volume Low Pressure) guns work at low outlet pressure (~0.7 bar) and high air volume. This limits unwanted paint dispersion and increases spraying efficiency (commonly around 65 %), but it requires a very powerful compressor and greater air consumption (about 400–500 l/min). LVLP (Low Volume Low Pressure) systems, by contrast, need a smaller air volume (~350 l/min) and work at about 1.5 bar. They are gentler on air consumption and suit smaller compressors too; their spraying efficiency (~55 %) is somewhat lower than HVLP. APS guns combine the strengths of both: at lower pressure they save paint comparably to HVLP, while the ability to work at higher pressure gives them output and speed similar to classic high-pressure guns. The result is a versatile system that delivers high painting quality together with exceptional flexibility of setting as required.

(HVLP, LVLP and APS spray guns – a painting guide) An example of a modern spray gun with APS technology (model SGHX100). This type of gun offers a wide range of settings – inlet pressure, fan width and paint quantity can all be adjusted. Its advanced design achieves even atomisation at both low and higher pressure. APS thus combines the advantages of HVLP (less paint mist, material savings) with the output of high-pressure systems, which demanding professionals in industry and vehicle refinishing especially appreciate.

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Suitable use of APS guns

Spray guns with APS technology are designed for the most demanding all-round use. A single tool covers a range of painting applications – from fine painting of small details to rapid coats over extensive areas. The ability to vary pressure and nozzle size makes APS suitable for a broad range of coatings:

• Primers and fillers: At higher pressure and with a larger nozzle you can easily apply primers, fillers and other base materials, including two-component (2K) primers or high-viscosity putties. An APS gun handles thicker coatings without any risk of „spitting“ or an uneven coat.
• Topcoats and fine detail painting: For the finish (acrylic topcoats, metallics or clearcoats, for example) the pressure can be lowered to achieve very fine atomisation with minimal overspray. The finish is then perfectly smooth and even. APS technology also copes with demanding painting of cars or furniture where top-quality results matter.
• Various types of paint: APS is compatible with common solvent-based and water-thinnable paints. It efficiently applies acrylics, polyurethane coatings, stains, primer and topcoat enamels, and even special protective coatings (with the appropriate nozzle chosen).

Typical users of APS guns are professional painters and workshops that require versatility and a top-class result. They are used in vehicle refinishing (body and paint shops), where one gun can serve both for spraying filler and for the subsequent painting of the bodywork. Also in industrial painting of machines and equipment, in furniture making and the woodworking industry (painting furniture and wooden surfaces), and among demanding hobby users who want professional equipment with maximum flexibility. APS technology proves itself wherever precision and material savings must be combined with increased productivity.

Benefits of APS for the customer

Why choose a spray gun with APS technology? Here are the main reasons:

• Versatility and flexibility: One gun handles several different tasks. There is no need to buy several specialised painting devices – APS covers priming, colour and the application of final clearcoats.
• Paint savings and less waste: In low-pressure mode APS limits mist formation, much like HVLP, so losses of expensive material are smaller. More paint ends up on the surface and less disperses into the air.
• Higher speed and output: Being able to raise the pressure to ~5 bar means faster work on large-area coats or when applying thicker coatings. The paint flow increases, so you cover the area faster – and without changing equipment.
• Top surface quality: APS guns are built for perfect atomisation under varying conditions. The result is a smooth, even surface free of defects and spray marks, which is crucial above all for topcoats on visible parts.
• Maximum control of settings: These guns allow precise fine-tuning of air pressure, spray fan width and the amount of paint delivered. The setting is easily adapted to the particular paint or object, which simplifies the work and reduces the risk of painting faults.
• Greater efficiency and cost savings: Combining the above advantages, APS increases the overall efficiency of painting. Less waste and a faster process mean savings on both material and time. An investment in APS technology therefore repays itself quickly in better results and higher productivity.

Spray guns with APS represent the modern trend in painting technology. If you are looking for the ideal union of efficiency and output, APS technology is an excellent choice. Browse our complete range of Spray guns and read the guide How to choose a spray gun as well, where you will find further useful information for choosing the right equipment.