chal
Well-Known Member
Does it come with the tip and filter or are they things I should buy at the same time?
Best way to cut down on antifouling?
- Thread starter chal
- Start date
ianj99
Well-Known Member
It comes with small and medium (217) ones. Not being sure how it would handle AF, I bought a coarser filter (white) and the 219 tip which is the largest it takes. Whether you'll need these would depend on your AF. Just add a small amount to the hopper to see how it sprays - also good to have some practice first. I didn't so there were some sags due to me being caught out by the sheer rate of application and not moving the gun quickly enough at the start.
A finer tip would reduce the flow rate and make it easier to get an even coating albeit, taking a bit longer.
If all goes well, fill the hopper with the amount you need to avoid having to stop and top it up. Remember not to squeeze the trigger until you have started moving the gun and release it before you stop. You'll only need to mask off if you want to spray right to the edge. (or an assistant can simply hold a sheet of cardboard to collect any over spray such as when doing the rudder)
chal
Well-Known Member
Ok, I might follow your lead, assuming that if it worked for you, it will for me too. Thanks again for all the info. Almost looking forward to next antifouling! (and certainly approaching forthcoming outdoor painting marathon with less trepidation than I was). Cheers!
ianj99
Well-Known Member
Yes, it turns a chore into a pleasure (almost!) and the finish is better than brush or roller.
I am sorely tempted to spray the top sides with Toplac next year although more masking off will be needed.
PuffTheMagicDragon
Well-Known Member
The main problem with spraying is that, for health and safety reasons, it is not allowed in our boatyards unless the entire boat is enclosed in a 'tent' and the spraying is done by a professional using an air-fed helmet. I believe that there is some EU regulation about this.
ianj99
Well-Known Member
Define 'our boatyards' '? I think you are referring to spraying 2pack paints such as Perfection.
Airless spraying is surely not included - if you can use one at home to spray your house/shed/fence with no precautions being required, then why can't you spray your boats hull?
There is no comparison with a compressor operated spraying system, which I agree, would cause such issues. There is no misty spray, no need for much if any masking off and no fumes/vapour from the AF anymore than there would be with a brush or roller.
On the subject of the fumes, due to the speed of application, ones exposure to what fumes are given off by AF is much less than the many hours of brush application it normally takes. I didn't feel the need to wear a dust mask never mind a respirator.
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PuffTheMagicDragon
Well-Known Member
Boatyards in Malta.
There are also regulations about having proper scaffolding with guard-rails. The days of standing on a plank supported by two empty oil drums are long gone.
I was not questioning what you wrote but merely stating the situation in my country.
ianj99
Well-Known Member
Sorry, it wasn't clear which country you were in. Do these regs also apply to someone working on their own boat in your yard?
PuffTheMagicDragon
Well-Known Member
Yes. Yards have become very careful about working methods where they may possibly be exposed to legal claims regarding injuries that occur on their property. Of course, it also provides them with more income...
In Malta there is no tide so drying out against a wall is out of the question. Places where a boat could be privately lifted out legally are limited and it would be very difficult to obtain permission from the local councils to work on the quay. These restrictions mainly affect sailing yachts because power boats up to 45-50 feet can be lifted onto a trailer and transported inland to private property.
Such is life.
coopec
N/A
It is the same in Australia too.
