Painting Equipment and Surface Treatment Tools

A short-pile roller, in microfibre or nylon, gives a smooth finish on paints and enamels. A long-pile roller loads more product and suits rough surfaces or plaster. Choose the pile length according to the roughness of the substrate and the density of the product. Check the product data sheet for the recommended rollers.

For edges, corners and details use a fine-bristled brush, while for broad surfaces such as walls, ceilings or gates a large paint brush is more practical, applying more product in fewer passes. A medium brush is a middle option for finishes of medium size. For water-based paints, synthetic bristles are preferred; for solvent-based products, natural bristles.

Masking tape protects glass, frames, floors and all the parts that must not be painted. A dispenser with a blade lets you cut the right length on site. The Paperella dispenser, with 15, 30 and 45 centimetre blades, takes masking paper of various heights. Remove the tape within the time specified by the paint manufacturer, to avoid residue.

Powder coating applies an electrostatically charged powder to the workpiece, which is then baked in an oven to form the coating. The equipment includes the electrostatic gun, the powder feed system and the booth, with recovery of the powder that does not deposit. Recovery reduces waste and keeps the workplace clean. The process uses combustible powders and must be designed with specific criteria.

Coating powders are combustible and can form explosive atmospheres if they accumulate in the air. Plants and booths need equipment compliant with the ATEX Directive 2014/34/EU and an explosion risk assessment, as required by D.Lgs. 81/2008 (Italian Legislative Decree 81/2008 on workplace safety) in Title XI on explosive atmospheres. Personnel must be trained and hazardous areas classified as indicated.

For sanding, spraying or applying paint, wear goggles, gloves suitable for the product and respiratory protection: a mask with an organic-vapour filter if you use solvents, or an FFP2 or higher mask compliant with EN 149 for sanding dust. Work in ventilated areas and follow the safety data sheet. Contaminated clothing must be changed and washed separately.

For rollers, use a plastic paint tray, which allows you to load the product evenly and remove the excess before applying it. The anti-bubble roller breaks up the air bubbles in fresh paint. Clean rollers and trays immediately after use, so that paint does not dry in the nap and spoil later applications.