Choosing the right nozzle for your Graco paint sprayer is very important for several reasons:
1. The result
2. Reduction of maintenance costs
3. Efficiency in performing the job
The nozzle is one of the most important parts of the sprayer, and the right nozzle gives better results, less spray dust and a longer life of the sprayer.
Check that the sprayer has the capacity for the tip size you intend to use. The tip capacity cannot exceed the sprayer capacity – otherwise you will not get sufficient pressure. Graco states a maximum tip size on all of its sprayers – we recommend that you choose a tip that is 1-2 sizes smaller than the maximum tip size. The amount of paint that is forced through the tip opening and ends up on the substrate is determined by the tip size and the pressure setting on the machine.
- Choose a nozzle depending on the type of job and paint sprayer.
- The largest paint sprayers can be used with 2 hose sets/guns. Check that the sprayer has the capacity for the tip size you intend to use for multi-gun operation.
The liquid stream is atomized as it leaves the nozzle.
Nozzle types
Graco offers nozzles for most purposes.
- Green FFLP nozzles for stain, oil and varnish. FFLP = Fine Finish – Low Pressure
- Yellow LP nozzles for most interior paints. LP = Low Pressure
- Blue PAA nozzles for indoor and outdoor painting that requires higher pressure. PAA = Professional Airless Application
- Brown HDA nozzles for putty and heavier materials. HDA = Heavy Duty Application
- Gray XHD nozzles for XTR guns for heavy and coarse materials. XHD = Xtreme Heavy Duty
- Dark yellow LL5 nozzles for LineLazer for laser-sharp edges.
- Light blue WRLP or WR nozzles for most interior paints to achieve an extra wide spray fan. WRLP = Wide RAC – Low Pressure
Crack the nozzle code
It can be a bit challenging to find your way around the nozzle jungle, but with the illustration below it is easy to understand what the number code on the nozzle stands for. The first digit indicates the fan width, while the last 2 digits tell you how much paint will come out of the nozzle (the size of the nozzle opening).
Nozzle output compared to standard paint roller
When the nozzle becomes worn
Nozzles are a common wear part, and it is important to replace them regularly. The illustration below shows how the spray pattern changes when the nozzle becomes worn. In this example, the nozzle should be replaced when the fan width shrinks to 23 cm and is clearly oval. The amount of paint applied becomes too high and the spray pattern becomes very uneven. You will only be able to spray 50% of the surface per hour as with a new nozzle, meaning it will take you twice as long to finish.
Does the nozzle fit your sprayer?
