Spray Pattern Troubleshooting


How to Eliminate Tails and Streaks

Video shows what tails and streaks look like and talks through the solution for eliminating the problem while painting with an air assist spray gun.

Tails and streaks in the pattern indicate a pattern that is not fully atomized. This pattern can result in uneven coverage and poorly blended finishes.

Increasing the fluid pressure can improve this condition.

Increasing atomization air can also improve this condition, if increased fluid pressure is not desired. 

Poor cleanliness of the air cap and tip can also produce tails and streaks in a pattern.  

Possible Reasons

Tails not fully atomized

Tip worn

Tip plugged

Fluid pressure too low

Best Solution

Clean tip

Check tip wear / flow rate

Increase fluid pressure

Decrease tip orifice size

Why is It Important?

Even / blended finish

Even paint thickness and coverage

Maintains transfer efficiency

Decreases dry spray

Increases cleanliness of tip, air cap and gun

Have Questions? Let's Talk.

Call Support

Call Support

Monday–Friday
7:30 a.m.–5 p.m. Central Time

Email Support

Email Support

Find a Distributor

Find a Distributor

For local sales and service support

Graco