A few days ago we talked about HVLP – that’s high-volume, low-pressure systems. There are also LVLPs: LOW-volume, low-pressure systems. While these spray guns might look the same and are used for pretty much the same applications, they are still two distinct tools. To make sure you pick the right one for your jobs, you need to know their differences. Here we explain these differences and also provide overviews of both to help widen your understanding of the two popular spray guns.

The LVLP or low volume low-pressure spray guns are guns that have been built to require less pressure to function. These spray guns will deliver superb material transfer efficiency and hence minimize waste.

LVLP guns spray faster than the HVLP, which is what makes them more popular with experienced DIYers and professional users. But, what many of its users seem to love most is that it delivers a superior finish quality.

These spray guns only require around 10 PSI on the nozzle, which means that they can work with almost any air compressor type.

And as far as material compatibility is concerned, these spray guns will work best with thinned paints. The LVLP spray guns are also usable with waterborne paints which further increases their versatility and convenience.

However, these spray guns do not seem to have the high enough volume required to spray high viscosity materials or metallic paints. Also, they will typically have a smaller spray pattern which is usually between 8 and 10 inches, which can affect the time you will need to paint a particular surface and the quality of the finishing coat you get.

Pros:

Works with lower PSI

Affordable

Faster spraying

Usable with waterborne paints

Cons:

Does not work very well with high-viscosity materials

Smaller fan pattern range

Check back tomorrow when we’ll do a LVLP vs. HVLP smackdown!