In automotive painting, the compressed air touches the finish directly, so water and oil in the line translate into fisheyes, blushing, orange peel and rework. Spray booths therefore need the cleanest, driest air in the plant.
Air quality requirement
Specify ISO 8573-1 Class 1:2:1 or better with Class 0 oil, and a pressure dew point low enough to prevent any condensation at the gun. A refrigerated dryer alone is usually insufficient; spray booths typically need an adsorption dryer and coalescing filtration at the point of use.
System components
- Oil-free compressor for the paint air supply
- Adsorption dryer for very low dew point
- Coalescing and carbon filters at the booth
- Regulator to hold consistent spray pressure
Protecting the finish
Install a dedicated dry air receiver at the booth, keep the lines sloped and drained, and replace filter elements on schedule. Even a brief oil or water slug during spraying can ruin a panel, so treatment at the booth is essential.