The main difference between HVLP Turbine and Compressor is that the HVLP turbine is an autonomous and free system that uses a turbine to produce the volume of air required for spraying. The turbine draws air into the unit and then transfers it through the hose to atomize the paint. It is used for wood finishing, interior home painting, and small projects.
While the HVLP compressor uses compressed air to feed the spray gun. The gun needs the required volume of air produced by the air compressor.
The size and type of a compressor are determined by the project’s nature and the material. It can generally atomize a bit better than the HVLP turbine system.
The HVLP turbine system and compressor system are of different capacities. It depends on your work and needs to choose one system over the other. Both systems have advantages as well as drawbacks.
HVLP Turbine Vs Compressor – What’s The Difference?
Some professionals and experts say that HVLP turbine spray guns are great, while others favor HVLP compressor systems.
This article will help you to understand the basic difference between both systems and move you to decide the best for your needs.
#1. The Difference in Transfer Efficiency
The HVLP turbine system has been designed to get better transfer efficiency savings your time and money, while the Compressor system goes through poor transfer efficiency.
It applies only 1/3 portion of the materials to the surface and the rest material is lost in the air.
#2. The Difference In Material Preparation
There are some materials that have to be diluted for the HVLP turbine paint system because it sprays at low pressure.
You can adjust the pressure at a maximum of 10 PSI, while the compressor system can spray those materials without thinning due to more air pressure.
#3. Difference Of Overspray
As the transfer efficiency of the HVLP spray gun turbine is better than its rival, so it doesn’t waste more material and has less overspray.
In comparison, the Compressor system wastes more material and causes more overspray.
#4. Difference In Price
The HVLP Turbine system will cost you less than the compressor system.
CRAFTSMAN Air Compressor
If you want to work at a small level, and can’t afford more budgets, the former sprayer is best for you as it is less expensive than the latter.
CRAFTSMAN Air Compressor
#5. Difference In Spraying Paint
The HVLP turbine system has a much softer paint spray and is considered perfect for applications that need a higher degree of control and accuracy.
It sprays very gently to produce better results overall. On the other hand, the compressor system discharge paint at a speed that is less soft.
#6. Difference In Use
The HVLP turbine system is very simple and easy to use. With a little practice, you can be an expert user.
While the compressor system is a little different as you have to do a lot of adjustments.
#7. Difference In Speed
The HVLP turbine system sprays paint at lower air pressure (under 10 PSI), so its speed is slow, while the compressor system sprays paint with more power and pressure (20 to 90 PSI) and has a higher speed.
That’s why it can cover larger surface areas. It is the advantage of the compressor system.
#8. Difference In Environmental Protection
The HVLP turbine system results in less overspray and is less likely to spray into the air. So it is more environmentally friendly and keeps the surroundings clean.
On the other hand, the compressor system has a faster speed that produces more overspray.
So it requires high safety standards, like well-ventilated areas away from the population. So it is prohibited in some areas of California.
#9. Difference In Portability
The HVLP turbine system is very lightweight and compact. You can easily move it from one place to another.
It gives a lot of benefits due to easy portability as you can shift the unit for indoor or outdoor projects. But the compressor system is not mobile and has less flexibility to shift the place.
Final Verdict
In conclusion, the choice between an HVLP turbine system and a compressor system will depend on your specific project needs. If you are looking to tackle smaller projects with less volume, the HVLP turbine unit would be the optimal choice. However, if you plan to work in a stationary location such as a workshop or commercial area, the compressor system would be the more suitable option. Ultimately, both systems offer quick and efficient results compared to traditional paint application methods.
