How to Use the Qwik Spray System (W/ Pictures)

The Qwik Spray System is VFI’s exclusive applicator gun and cartridge system used to help businesses with entry-level or low-volume applications of polyurea hybrid and polyurethane coatings. It is a cost-effective option that provides the same quality finish as high- or low-pressure spray equipment.

The gun is easier to operate than other systems as it requires no special training to use. It also automatically mixes the material in the static mix tip during the spray process and offers increased portability. There is minimal overall equipment maintenance, and cleaning after use is easy since cartridges can be thrown away once they are fully used.

Importance of Surface Preparation

All surfaces to be sprayed must be properly prepared beforehand to ensure coating adhesion. Remove debris, oil films, or detergents, and make sure the surface is dry before spraying. Some surfaces should be sanded and primed to create proper adhesion. Cover surrounding areas you’re not spraying to ensure there is no chance of overspray.

How to Set up the Applicator Gun

Equipment needed: VFI-7500 Qwik Spray Gun, air regulator kit with air supply hose, and air compressor (not included, must be capable of 10 CFM at 90 psi)

1. Remove the VFI Qwik Spray Gun from the box and plastic bag. Remove the air regulator and air supply hose from the smaller box.

2. Screw the quick-connect hose coupling (included with the gun) onto the bottom of the T-fitting to the right of the air regulator. Then, screw the top of the T-fitting onto the compressed air connection below the trigger handle of the spray gun.

3. Insert the air supply hose into the push-to-connect fitting on the left side of the regulator.

Note: When disconnecting, press the push-to-connect fitting to release the hose.

4. Attach the provided handle to the blue front plate of the spray gun. There are six different spots to screw the handle into for optimal comfort when spraying.

5. Connect an air compressor hose to the quick-connect hose coupling.

6. On the rear of the gun, you will find the air pressure regulator that controls the coating flow. Adjust by twisting the knob clockwise for increased flow or counterclockwise for decreased flow.

7. The brass forward/reverse rod near the regulator allows you to move the plungers forward while spraying and backward to remove empty cartridges.

How to Use the Qwik Spray System

Equipment needed: VFI-7500, 750×750 ml disposable cartridges, and static mix tips

1. Remove the cartridge from the box and plastic bag. If material separation occurs, shake the cartridge until uniform. Heat material slowly to at least 75°F. It should be elevated slowly to operating temperatures. Do not microwave.

Note: Do not store the cartridge nose up for long term periods to prevent leaking from the plunger seals.

2. Keep the cartridge nose up to prevent the components from mixing.

3. Remove the red safety cap from the threading.

4. Slowly remove the white anti-separation cap. (The material may come out if the product is too warm or heated unevenly.)

5. Place the provided static mix tip on the plastic threading and hand-tighten the attached nut to the base.

6. The static mix tip should sit snug on the threading with no gaps and without cross threading.

7. Load the cartridge into the gun frame label side up by placing the rear of the cartridges over the plungers and lowering the front of the cartridges into the front plate.

8. Keep the cartridge and applicator nose up so the static mix tip stays vertical to prevent the A and B side material from crossing and flowing in the static mix tip. (If using joint filler material such as VFI-5011, skip steps 8-10.)

9. Connect the elbow push-to-connect fitting on the air supply hose to the static mix tip for atomization during application.

Note: When disconnecting, press the push-to-connect fitting to release the static mix tip.

10. Turn on the atomizer by opening the ball valve.

11. Twist knob on the regulator to adjust for the desired texture. VFI recommends starting between 60-90 psi, but the psi can be increased based on the texture you desire. You can leave the setting for spraying future tubes.

Now, you can begin spraying by pulling the trigger on the handle.

Tips for Spraying

• Use proper personal protective equipment (PPE). We recommend using a full-face mask/supplied air respirator, coverall suit or equivalent, and chemically resistant gloves.
• The application area must be well-ventilated, like an approved spray booth, as these materials are hazardous to ingest, inhale, or come into physical contact with.
• Consider your spray pattern before you start spraying. Once you begin, the entire cartridge must be fully discharged to keep the static mix tip from clogging.
• Start spraying off the surface onto a disposable area to ensure the material is fully mixed. Monitor the level of material in the cartridges as you’re spraying. When the cartridge is nearly empty, spray off the surface to prevent off-ratio material.
• Begin spraying within the recoat window of the product where you previously stopped to maintain uniform coverage across the entire surface.
• You may apply texture by spraying over but not directly onto the surface until a desired finish is achieved.
• Clean the gun of all coating residue after use with MEK or xylene, and do not soak it in solvent.

Compatible VFI Materials

The VFI-7500 Qwik Spray Gun works incredibly well with the VFI-6171 70 D Qwik Spray Hard Coat and provides the same quality as any low- or high-pressure system. It is also compatible with VFI’s other cartridge-based systems, including VFI-544 Qwik Spray Bedliner, VFI-5011 80 A Expansion Joint Filler, and VFI-2538 QS 70 D EPS Form Hard Coat. Contact VFI today if you are interested in getting started with our portable, easy-to-use spray system. You can also check out our Qwik Spray instructions in video format by clicking here.