What size nozzle should you use when applying clear coat to get an optimal finish? This is one of the most common questions asked by automotive painters and DIY enthusiasts alike.
In this definitive guide, as a professional nozzles supplier, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to select the right nozzle size for clear coat applications, whether you’re working on spot repairs, overall paint jobs, or anything in between. I’ll also share nozzle size recommendations from experienced painters and technical guidelines from paint manufacturers.
By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding (pun intended!) of what nozzle size works best to atomize clear coat into an ultra-smooth finish. Let’s dive in!
Why Nozzle Size Matters For Clear Coat
The nozzle on your paint spray gun controls two key factors in the application process:
- Atomization – How finely the paint is broken up into droplets
- Material flow – The volume of paint being released
Using the right nozzle size allows for optimum atomization and flow for the viscosity of your clear coat product. This results in the smoothest possible finish with the least amount of effort.
The wrong size can make applying clear extremely difficult and lead to disappointing results like orange peel.
For most automotive clear coats, a nozzle size of 1.3 to 1.4 mm provides the best balance of atomization and flow. However within that range, there are considerations for different types of projects.
What Size Nozzle For Clear Coat
Here are the most commonly recommended nozzle sizes for clear coat from experienced painters:
1.2mm
Best for:
- Fine finishes
- Spot repairs
- Hard to reach areas
A 1.2mm tip provides very fine atomization for thin coats. It allows you to focus the spray pattern on small areas.
However, the lower material flow requires making multiple slow passes to build up adequate film build. This makes it less than ideal for covering large panels.
1.3mm
Best for:
- Most clear coats
- Small to medium-sized panels
At 1.3mm, you get great overall atomization and flow for general clear coat applications. It’s a versatile size that works for most jobs.
According to PaintTalk user Olds, “1.3 is pretty much the best all around size”. It’s particularly well suited for overall paint jobs on vehicles and medium-sized collision repairs.
1.4mm
Best for:
- Thicker, high solids clears
- Larger panels and jobs
The increased flow rate of a 1.4mm nozzle makes it easier to cover large areas efficiently. The atomization remains fine enough for automotive clear.
This size also works well for thicker, high solids clears thanks to improved flow. It’s great for overall refinishing jobs or covering large collision repairs.
1.5 – 1.8mm
Best for:
- Heavy-duty coatings
- Gel coat, etc
Larger nozzle sizes like 1.5mm+ are less common for clear coat. They sacrifice too much atomization for adequate flow, which leads to texture issues. However certain heavy-duty coatings may call for a 1.5mm or larger nozzle.
Other Considerations
Beyond the sizes above, here are other factors to keep in mind:
Paint Viscosity
The manufacturer-recommended viscosity range for your clear coat product should guide your nozzle size selection within the sizes mentioned earlier. More viscous clears may require slightly larger nozzles.
Number of Coats
Applying multiple medium coats with a smaller nozzle is preferable to one thick coat from a large nozzle for achieving the best results. This way paint has more time to flow out between coats.
Air Pressure
Using the lowest air pressure necessary to properly atomize the clear will provide the best finish. Start low when adjusting pressure, then increase gradually as needed.
Spray Distance
Maintain your spray gun 6-8 inches perpendicular from the surface for decreased texture and better flow from the clear. Adjust distance closer or further based on product instructions.
Pattern Size
Match your spray pattern size to the surface area you are coating for optimal coverage with minimum wasted overspray floating around the paint booth.
Clear Coat Nozzle Size FAQs
Let’s wrap up with answers to some commonly asked questions about nozzle sizes for clear coat:
Can you use a 1.4mm nozzle for clear coat?
Yes, 1.4mm is an excellent all-purpose size for clear coat including urethanes, acrylics, and more. It provides great atomization and flow for most jobs without going overboard.
What size nozzle do professionals use for clear coat?
Professional painters most often use 1.3mm or 1.4mm nozzles for clear coat. These tip sizes give excellent results across different types of automotive clear coats.
Why does my clear coat have orange peel?
Using too large of a nozzle, applying coats that are too thick, or inadequate flow from the clear are common causes of orange peel texture. Sanding and reapplying clear with a smaller 1.3mm nozzle in multiple medium coats is a good solution.
Can I spray clear coat with a 1.5 nozzle?
A 1.5mm nozzle provides too much flow relative to atomization and risks dripping, sags, texture issues like orange peel on most clear coat products. Stick with 1.3 or 1.4mm for smoothest, professional results.
The Bottom Line
So there you have it – a complete guide to selecting the best nozzle size for clear coat projects. Matching your nozzle to the viscosity and job, and fine-tuning pressure and technique makes achieving flawless results much easier.
What size nozzle do you use for spraying clear? What finishes have you had the most success with? Let me know in the comments!
