When working on a painting project, have you ever needed a spray gun but not wanted to invest in a new one? It’s true that you can use a vacuum cleaner, a common household item, to make a working spray gun. Using a few simple supplies, this do-it-yourself project is not only inexpensive but also surprisingly simple to complete.
This post will walk you through the process of turning your vacuum cleaner into a useful spray gun. For small paint jobs around the house or creative projects that require a smooth, even coat of paint, this homemade tool can be ideal. It’s also a fantastic way to put an outdated vacuum cleaner to use—one that would otherwise be gathering dust in your closet.
Everything will be covered, including the supplies you’ll need and how to assemble your spray gun step-by-step. You’ll discover how to assemble the spray mechanism, adjust the vacuum cleaner, and test your new device to make sure it functions properly. You’ll be equipped with the knowledge and creativity necessary to take on your next painting project by the time you finish this guide.
Constructing a spray gun out of a vacuum cleaner is an enjoyable and fulfilling task, regardless of your level of experience with do-it-yourself projects or desire to try something new. Let’s get started and discover how to transform a common household appliance into a helpful painting instrument.
- The principle of operation of the air sprayer
- Types of sprayers
- Which vacuum cleaner to use
- We make a spray gun with our own hands
- Preparation of a vacuum cleaner
- Necessary details and tools
- Production process
- Nuances
- Testing
- Video on the topic
- Spray gun in 5 minutes or how to make a painting gun with your own hands
- How to make a mini spray gun with your own hands.
- How to make a large spray for paint
The principle of operation of the air sprayer
The modern prototypes of the first paint pistols were created closer to the close of the 1800s. These were air-assistanced sprayers at work. He scooped up the liquid and forced it through the nozzle. Under these circumstances, the paint sprayed in droplets. Although sprayers have improved and become more efficient since then, the basic idea behind their operation has not changed.
For any spray gun to actually squeeze and perform its intended function, there must be an air source. Using an electric or gasoline-powered compressor, the air flow is pumped out. Huge professional equipment is powered by substantial compressors and large receivers (ranging from 25 to 50 l). These are semi-stationary units. Because the supercharger is smaller, electric sprayers are more portable.
It is best to consider the second, lower pressure option if you wish to build your own spray gun.
The design of a modern plastic spray gun involves the presence of a case equipped with a trigger, needles, nozzles (also called a nozzle), head for spraying and a fluid capacity. By pressing the trigger, you shift the needle so that its tip-cone opens a hole for the injector of the nozzle. Two tubes are included with the tank: one, shorter, air, the other, more authentic, sucks the mixture. Once in the device, the air flow (part) helps to increase the pressure inside the container and pushing the liquid up the long tube. If you do not press the trigger, that is, block the output, the pressure will grow until it achieves the movement of the safety valve. If there is no one, the device is depressurized, and it will not be painted what needs to be.
The remaining air flow is captured by the paint and forced out of the nozzle. Furthermore, a portion of the stream that falls into the spraying head’s channels emerges from it violently, crushing the material on the smallest bands or rugs.
It is not possible to build a professional device in a home setting. However, there is a chance to obtain a more basic version of the sprayer.
Types of sprayers
Devices used in factory production are categorized using different signs. There are:
- providing both high and reduced pressure;
- automatic and manually designed for work;
- with a tank from below and from above;
- airless and forced air flow supply devices.
Professional and semi-professional devices define the quality of the work.
In terms of operation, the low-pressure sprayer is most similar to a homemade one (a regular household device does not provide high pressure). Sprayers designed specifically to be used with vacuum cleaners are still available in serial versions.
A cheap and creative way for do-it-yourselfers and hobbyists to accomplish paint jobs of professional quality without going over budget is to build a spray gun out of a vacuum cleaner. With a few readily available materials and a standard vacuum cleaner, you can build a workable spray gun that can handle a variety of painting jobs around the house. This tutorial will show you how to turn your vacuum cleaner into a multipurpose painting tool, complete with the easy steps and tweaks you need to make to ensure a smooth and even application for your upcoming project.
Which vacuum cleaner to use
The supercharger’s primary feature is its power, which indirectly affects pressure. Furthermore, you will be weak if the absorption force is small. If the owl channel isn’t already there, you’ll need to make it by filling in every hole except the one where the hose is connected.
There are some devices whose design includes an air vent. The Soviet Union’s "Rocket," "Ural," and "Seagull" models have an outlet. You can make use of such an artifact if you possess one. Although air air is not typically included in modern devices, it can occasionally be found, as with the Samsung SC4140. Construction vacuums have extremely strong pressure, which can cause them to blow out.
We make a spray gun with our own hands
Prior to beginning the autonomous sprayer production, the source apparatus must be ready. Additionally, gather all the information and resources you’ll need so they’ll be ready.
Preparation of a vacuum cleaner
First, take out all of the vacuumboards that are inside the device—everything that gathers and holds back dust. This particularly applies to filters. Thoroughly clean the remaining components, and reduce any dust on them prior to beginning the assembly process. Prepare the room for assembly by performing a wet cleaning beforehand.
Necessary details and tools
You must assemble a spray gun:
- The apparatus itself, which works as a source of pressure (vacuum cleaner with a hose);
- receiver (you can use a rubber chamber – car or from the ball);
- a capacity for paint liquids of the volume you need;
- Reduction valve;
- any of the suitable materials for fasteners.
Production process
The old vacuum cleaner’s engine must be forced to rotate in the opposite direction in order to change the direction of traction. This will cause the air flow to change. Make an effort to give up the terminals that go to the stator and rotor. However, the impeller blade design will continue to determine the strength of reverse traction. Reverse traction will become significantly weaker than the initial, standard traction if they are asymmetric. It is preferable to swap out the impeller for one with symmetrical blades if at all possible.
The receiver should then be used to apply consistent pressure to it. A homemade sprayer works on the same principle as a factory sprayer: paints and varnishes are sprayed from the container after being flooded through the nozzle.
Since the reduction valve controls the sprayer’s throughput, it is necessary.
It can be made separately if the older model does not have a specific nest intended to connect the hose. There are two methods:
- All holes that take out the air, seal (use any suitable material: mounting foam, heat -mock, epoxy resin). At the place of location of the blow, cut the hole of the same diameter as inside the existing hose. Pick a piece of pipe from PVC a suitable size, insert into the hole and glue it tightly. Calculate so that at least 7 cm of the pipe is at least 7 cm. You will get a vapor for a sprayer.
- The second method will not demand to make a hole in the case. We need a voluminous strong package, insulation tape and another hose – it will supply air. You put the device into the package, remove the “native” hose out and firmly wrap everything in insulation. The outgoing air will fill the space of the package and will follow the second hose. The method will work reliably if the package is quite dense, and all possible holes are qualitatively stacked.
It is necessary to clean the device. Pour 100–150 g of solvent into a container, then turn on the device for ten minutes or longer to accomplish this.
Try adjusting the nozzle’s function and the structure’s pressure when spraying the solvent to prevent your homemade device from spitting paint and varnish materials instead of applying them to the surface in a uniform layer.
Nuances
When selecting fasteners, take care to ensure that they completely seal the locations where the apparatus’s parts are connected.
During the "project" phase and during the assembly process, it is feasible to offer the choice to utilize different burners with nozzle widths. The tool will become more versatile as a result.
Testing
It is necessary to test the recently extended device. Tests should be conducted at different separations from stained surfaces (ideally, 15 to 20 cm). The smallest possible nozzle diameter and the most efficient check.
Use water-based paint for tests (it is easily cleaned off) and carry out a test in the street to reduce risks and avoid unpleasant surprises. Since the device was made "by eye," without using calculations, it can unexpectedly release a focus in the form of a rain of coloring fluid, rather than from the hole where it is needed.
Step | Description |
1 | Gather materials: a vacuum cleaner, plastic bottle, rubber hose, duct tape, and a nozzle. |
2 | Cut the bottle: Cut the bottom off a plastic bottle to create a funnel shape. |
3 | Attach hose: Secure one end of the hose to the vacuum cleaner"s exhaust using duct tape. |
4 | Connect bottle: Fit the bottle"s narrow end into the other end of the hose and seal with tape. |
5 | Attach nozzle: Place the nozzle on the wide end of the bottle for spray control. |
6 | Test the sprayer: Turn on the vacuum cleaner and adjust the nozzle to control the spray pattern. |
Using a vacuum cleaner to make a homemade spray gun is a creative and economical way to take on painting projects. You can reuse everyday objects with this do-it-yourself method, which will save you money and cut down on waste. The method is converting the vacuum cleaner into a sprayer, which is something that can be done with a few common household items and basic tools.
The powerful motor of a vacuum cleaner makes for a consistent and even spray, which is one of the main benefits of using it as a spray gun. This makes it perfect for painting fences and furniture, among other things. You can also customize the spray pattern and pressure of your own spray gun to achieve a customized application that meets your unique requirements.
An important factor to take into account when starting this project is safety. Make sure the vacuum cleaner is always unplugged when working on repairs. Wear safety equipment, such as goggles and gloves, to avoid getting hurt. Make sure there is adequate ventilation in the spray area to prevent paint fume inhalation.
All things considered, turning a vacuum cleaner into a spray gun is a useful and satisfying project for any do-it-yourselfer. It not only gives an outdated appliance a new lease on life, but it also meets your painting needs with excellent results. You don’t need to buy a commercial spray gun to achieve professional-quality finishes; all you need is careful execution and adherence to safety precautions.