The equipment required in an auto refinishing body shop will vary depending on the size and scope of the shop, but there are some essential pieces of equipment that all body shops will need.
In this article we will divide this equipment into 2 categories: Basic and advanced. Whether you are about to set up an auto refinishing body shop or want to give a facelift to the one you own or run, this article can come in handy to decide what to get.
Auto refinishing body shop: Basic equipment
The specific equipment that a body shop need will depend on the types of repairs that the shop specializes in. For example, a body shop that specializes in collision repair will need different equipment than a body shop that specializes in custom painting.
The basic equipment for an auto refinishing body shop includes the minimum to run it. This would be 1) spray guns, 2) compressors, 3) sanding and masking tools, 4) paint prep equipment, and 5) personal protection equipment.
Spray guns
An auto refinishing body shop will typically need at least three spray guns: one for primers and surfacers, one for basecoats, and one for clearcoats. Some shops may also have additional spray guns for specialty tasks, such as applying touch-ups, metallic paints or undercoating.
The type of spray gun that is best for each task depends on the viscosity of the material being sprayed. Primers and surfacers are typically thicker than basecoats and clearcoats, so they require a spray gun with a larger nozzle. Basecoats and clearcoats are thinner, so they can be sprayed with a smaller nozzle. Here are some specific spray gun recommendations for each task:
- Primers and surfacers: HVLP spray gun with a 1.7mm to 2.2mm nozzle
- Basecoats: HVLP spray gun with a 1.4mm to 1.6mm nozzle
- Clearcoats: HVLP spray gun with a 1.3mm to 1.7mm nozzle
HVLP spray guns are the most common type of spray gun used in auto refinishing body shops because they are efficient and produce a high-quality finish. HVLP spray guns use less air pressure than traditional spray guns, which results in less overspray and a more uniform finish.
How to choose the right spray gun for an auto refinishing body shop?
When choosing a spray gun for an auto refinishing body shop, there are a few factors to consider:
Air pressure: The air pressure required to operate a spray gun will vary depending on the type of spray gun and the type of paint being sprayed. It is important to choose a spray gun that is compatible with your air compressor.
Air volume: Choose a spray gun that allows enough air volume. This is essential because when there is not enough air volume, a higher pressure is required for good particle atomization but with the leverage of creating excessive overspray, and paint shop contamination.
Fluid control: This feature allows you to adjust the amount of paint that is sprayed. This is important for achieving a consistent finish.
Pattern control: This allows you to adjust the width and shape of the spray pattern. This is important for painting different types of surfaces.
Ease of use: Some spray guns are easier to use than others. It is important to choose a spray gun that is comfortable for you to use.
Beside these key features, here are some tips for choosing the right spray guns for an auto body refinishing shop:
- Consider HVLP spray guns. HVLP transfers more paint to the car for less overspray
- Look for sturdy stainless steel or anodized bodies. They will hold up to heavy shop use and cleaning with solvents. Replaceable parts are also key
- Higher CFM air consumption spray guns allow for proper atomization when running off big compressors
- Buy interchangeable fluid tips and needles because different sizes for primers, colors, clears allow quick changeovers
- Include a touch-up gun in the mix for small spot repairs and jambs. Uses very fine atomization
- Stock several backup spray guns, which is critical to keep jobs moving and not be down a gun when cleaning is needed
- Standardize on a quality brand makes training and maintenance consistent. If you choose DeVilbiss, get all the spray guns of this manufacturer
Based on these factors, our recommendation are the following HVLP spray guns:
Devilbiss DV1 Basecoat: A gravity feed gun specifically designed for applying automotive basecoat paints. Some key features are:
- Optimized fluid passages
- 1.2 mm and 1.4 mm fluid tips
- Bleeder-style air valve
- 500cc aluminum cup
- Adjustable pattern control
Devilbiss DV1 Clearcoat: An HVLP spray gun designed specifically for applying automotive clearcoat finishes. Some key features are:
- 1.2mm and 1.3mm fluid tips
- Bleeder style air valve
- 600cc aluminum cup
- Adjustable pattern control
- Anodized aluminum parts
Devilbiss DV1-S (Touch-ups): This is an affordable, entry-level spray gun designed for automotive refinishing spot repair. Some features are:
- Compact and lightweight
- Self-adjusting needle packing
- Vented grip
- 1.3 mm and 1.4 mm tips
- 600 cc aluminum cup
- Low 10 psi operation
- Easy to clean and maintain
You can find all the features about these spray guns in the article “The best spray guns for refinishing in 2023”.
Compressors
The type of compressor that is needed in an auto refinishing body shop will depend on the size of the shop and the types of tools and equipment that are used. However, most auto body shops will need a compressor that is capable of delivering at least 10 CFM of air at a pressure of 90 PSI. Some popular compressor choices for auto body shops include:
Rotary screw compressors: These are the most expensive type of compressor, but they are also the most efficient and reliable. They are also very quiet, which is important for auto body shops where noise can be a problem.
Reciprocating compressors: These are less expensive than rotary screw compressors, but they are not as efficient or reliable. They are also louder than rotary screw compressors. They add moisture and oil to the air and reservoir. Constant purging of air reservoir is mandatory in order to avoid saturation of air filters.
Vane compressors: These are a good middle ground between rotary screw and reciprocating compressors, when it comes to be efficient and reliable.
When choosing a compressor for your auto refinishing body shop, it is important to consider the following factors:
CFM: This stands for cubic feet per minute, and it is a measure of the volume of air that a compressor can deliver.
PSI: This stands for pounds per square inch, and it is a measure of the pressure of the air that a compressor can deliver.
Duty cycle: This is the percentage of time that it can run without overheating. Auto body shops typically need a compressor with a duty cycle of at least 100%.
Noise level: The noise level of a compressor is important to consider, especially if your shop is located in a residential area. Rotary screw compressors are the quietest type of compressor, while reciprocating compressors are the loudest.
The CFM and PSI requirements for your shop will depend on the types of tools and equipment that you use.
Sanding and masking tools
It might seem obvious, but any auto refinishing body shop will need sanding and masking tools for every painting job, like the following:
Sandpaper: Sandpaper is available in a variety of grits, from coarse to fine. The grit that you use will depend on the task at hand. For example, you would use a coarser grit to remove rust or old paint, and a finer grit to smooth out the surface before painting.
Sanding blocks: They help to distribute the pressure evenly and create a smooth finish.
Orbital sander: An orbital sander is a power tool that can be used to sand large areas quickly and easily. A random orbital sander is a type of orbital sander that produces a more uniform finish.
Belt sander: This is a power tool that is used to remove large amounts of material quickly.
Masking tape: This is used to protect areas of the car that you do not want to paint.
Masking paper: This is used to protect large areas of the car, such as the windows and windshield.
Masking film: This is a thin plastic film that is used to protect delicate areas of the car, such as the headlights and taillights.
Additionally, some other equipment might be needed to prepare the coatings, like strainers, tack cloths, mixing cups and sticks, and so on.
Personal protection equipment
The following personal protection equipment (PPE) is needed in an auto refinishing body shop:
Eye protection: Safety glasses or goggles are essential to protect your eyes from flying debris, paint fumes, and other chemicals.
Respiratory protection: A respirator is necessary to protect you from inhaling paint fumes, sanding dust, and other airborne contaminants.
Hand protection: Gloves are important to protect your hands from paint, solvents, and other chemicals.
Body protection: A coverall or apron can help to protect your clothing from paint, solvents, and other chemicals. These can be disposable or reusable.
Foot protection: Steel-toed boots or shoes can help to protect your feet from falling objects and other hazards.
In addition to the above PPE, some auto refinishing body shops may also require employees to wear hard hats, earplugs, and other specialized safety gear.
It is important to choose the PPE that is appropriate for the specific tasks that you will be performing. For example, if you are spraying paint, you will need to wear a respirator that is specifically designed for that purpose.
Also, inspect your PPE regularly and replace it when it is damaged or worn out. PPE is only effective if it is in good condition. By wearing the appropriate PPE, you can protect yourself from the hazards of working in an auto refinishing body shop and prevent injuries and illnesses.
Auto refinishing body shop: Advanced equipment
The beforementioned equipment can be a good starting point, but to really ace your auto refinishing body shop, you will need advanced equipment sooner than later. We can include in this list a 1) spray booth, 2) drying tools, 3) lifting equipment, and 4) paint mixing equipment.
Spray booth
The size and features of a spray booth for an auto refinishing body shop will depend on the specific needs of the shop. However, there are some general guidelines that can be followed.
Size: This will depend on the size of the vehicles that the shop typically works on. For example, a shop that specializes in repairing large vehicles, such as trucks and SUVs, will need a larger spray booth than a shop that specializes in repairing small vehicles.
A good rule of thumb is to choose a spray booth that is at least 2 feet longer and 1 foot wider than the largest vehicle that the shop typically works on. The height of the spray booth should also be sufficient to accommodate the vehicles that the shop works on.
Features: The following features are must-haves for a spray booth in an auto refinishing body shop:
- Proper ventilation: The spray booth must have proper ventilation to remove fumes and particles from the air. Dust extraction systems are used to remove dust and other particles from the air. This is important to protect the health of workers and to prevent the spread of fire
- Lighting: The spray booth must have good lighting so that workers can see what they are doing. This is important for achieving a high-quality finish
- Fire safety equipment: The spray booth must have fire safety equipment, such as fire extinguishers and smoke alarms
In addition to these must-have features, some spray booths may also have additional features, such as:
- Heated floors: This can help to speed up the drying process of paint and other coatings
- Air heating towers: These speeds up flash off and evaporation of solvents when spraying.
- Dust collection systems: This can help to remove dust and other particles from the air, resulting in a cleaner finish
- Computerized control systems: This can help to automate the spray booth process, making it more efficient and easier to use.
How to choose the right spray booth for an auto refinishing body shop?
When choosing a spray booth for an auto refinishing body shop, it is important to consider the specific needs you have. It is also important to make sure that the spray booth is properly installed and maintained. Here are some tips for choosing the right spray booth:
Made of durable materials: The spray booth will be exposed to a variety of chemicals and fumes, so it is important to choose a spray booth that is made of materials that can withstand these harsh conditions.
Easy to clean: The spray booth will need to be cleaned regularly to remove paint and other coatings that have built up on the inside. It is important to choose a spray booth that is easy to clean so that this task can be completed quickly and efficiently.
Energy efficient: Spray booths can use a lot of energy, so it is important to choose one that is energy efficient. This will help to reduce the shop’s operating costs.
Depending on the vehicles painted, airflow determines the best overspray distribution. For instance, when painting a complete fleet vehicle or truck is best suited to have a cross-draft type booth. For regular compact cars or SUVs doing touch ups or panel fixing, a semi down draft airflow is preferred. Here are some key considerations for selecting a spray booth for an auto body refinishing shop:
Size:
- Minimum 22 ft long x 9 ft wide x 8 ft high to fit most vehicles
- 30′ x 15′ booth better accommodates large trucks and equipment
- Allow clearance around vehicle for doors and robot/painter airflow
Ventilation:
- 10,000+ CFM of air flow capacity for quick contaminant removal
- Exhaust fan motors at least 5 HP, better if 7.5+ HP
- Separate make-up air system for fresh filtered air
Construction:
- Non-flammable materials like galvanized steel walls and ceiling
- Sealed lightweight modular panels or tile construction
- Rounded corners and coved floors for easy cleaning
Lighting:
- 500-1000 lux lighting minimum for paint color matching
- Shatterproof fixtures rated for volatile environments
- Interior lighting plus inspection lights at doors
Features:
- Down-draft design for fastest air flow
- Drive-thru capability if possible
- Explosion proof switches, fixtures, and wiring
- Auto ventilation controls with timers
- Air distribution baffles for even air flow
Note: Airflow is calculated as width and length of exhaust chamber in squared feed time 60 for body shop spray booths. Motors and rating are determined by the size and type of impeller used to dry air. Usually, vent axial fans are used in spray booths.
Drying tools
The following drying systems and tools are needed in an auto refinishing body shop:
Infrared drying lamps: They can be used to speed up the drying process of paint and other coatings. They work by emitting infrared radiation, which heats the paint from the inside out. If you are using infrared drying lamps, be careful not to overheat the paint. Overheating can cause the paint to crack or peel.
Spot drying lamps: These are smaller, more portable infrared drying lamps that can be used to dry specific areas of a car.
Air movers: They can be used to circulate air around a car and help the paint to dry more evenly.
UV curing systems: These use ultraviolet light to dry paint and other coatings. UV curing systems are very fast, but they can be expensive and require specialized training to use safely.
Dehumidifiers: They can be used to remove moisture from the air in a paint booth. This can help to prevent the paint from blushing, which is a milky appearance that can occur when moisture condenses on the paint while it is drying.
Lifting equipment
The equipment listed here is essential for any auto refinishing body shop to lift and support vehicles safely and efficiently.
Two-post lifts: These are the most common type of lift used in auto body shops. They are quick and easy to use, and they can lift a variety of vehicles, including cars, trucks, and SUVs.
Four-post lifts: They are like two-post lifts, but they have an additional two posts at the rear of the lift. This makes them more stable and allows them to lift heavier vehicles.
Scissor lifts: These are a good option for shops with limited space. They can be raised and lowered flush with the floor, which makes it easy to move vehicles around the shop.
Mobile lifts: They are portable lifts that can be moved around the shop as needed. They are a good option for shops that need to perform repairs on vehicles in multiple locations.
Engine hoists and transmission jacks: Engine hoists are used to remove and install engines and other heavy components. Transmission jacks are used to support and move transmissions while they are being removed and installed.
Body stands: These are used to support the body of a vehicle while the frame is being repaired.
Wheel dollies: Wheel dollies are used to move tires and wheels around the shop.
Paint mixing equipment
This refers to the equipment used to mix paint and other coatings to achieve the desired consistency and color like mixing scales, paint shakers, and ventilated mixing benches, for mixing paint. In some auto refinishing body shops, there is a whole room dedicated for this purpose.
The future of auto refinishing body shops
The future of auto refinishing body shops is likely to be shaped by several trends, including:
Reducing bottlenecks: In every stage by using side feed spray stations where vehicles are loaded into a skid and moved sideways in every process from body filling, sanding, priming and final coating.
The rise of electric vehicles (EVs): EVs are becoming increasingly popular, and they require different repair and refinishing techniques than traditional gasoline-powered vehicles. Body shops that can adapt to this trend will be well-positioned for success in the future.
The increasing use of technology: Technology is already playing a major role in auto refinishing, and this trend is likely to continue in the future. For example, body shops are increasingly using computerized paint mixing systems and laser measuring devices to ensure that repairs are accurate and precise.
The growing focus on sustainability: Body shops are becoming increasingly focused on sustainability, and they are looking for ways to reduce their environmental impact. For example, some body shops are now using water-based paints and other environmentally friendly materials.
Are auto refinishing body shops a profitable business? It is safe to say that yes, they are. One key factor is counting on reliable suppliers. We have all the equipment needed for auto refinishing body shops. Feel free to reach out to us whenever you are ready to increase quality and reduce costs in your shop.
