Problems with lacquer finish

[In2Wood]

I have started spraying lacquer (protec furniture) using a Wagner electric spraygun but cannot get a smooth finish. Instead the finish always appears "bumpy" and matt even though I am using a 750 gloss lacquer. The finish doesn't change even when I dial up or down on the application rate. I am thinking of issues like temperature - does that affect things? It is hot in Brisbane and the tin shed doesn't make things better - should I only spray when it is cool? I am also wondering if a compressed air spraygun might be better - any experience anyone? or any advice?

Thanks

Clive

[joez]

Hi Clive, are you thinning the lacquer at all? i would check the manufucturers recommendations re thinning etc.. Some lacquers recommend quite a bit of thinners.

Lacquer will also tend to level out after a few days of drying, so some of that orange peeling your experiencing will go away.

good luck
joez

[Cruzi]

Sounds like you might might be gettin too thick a coat, not sure about the Wagner guns but normal spray guns work quite well with lacquer.

Another problem is the heat and even worse spraying in the sun, that could be the cause of the bumpiness and matt finish.

I'm guessing that 750 gloss means around 75% and that is a very glossy finish, it will highlight any bumps and errors in your sanding technique, it can get matt looking areas when wet but dries to an even gloss.

30% is a good finish for most furniture.

[In2Wood]

Thanks for both replies. Looks like I need to try thinning as I did not do that - also will attempt when a bit cooler. Thanks guys.

Clive O