Spray-Painter Career Description
Spray-painters spray paint onto the bodywork of a motor vehicle by means of a spray-gun in order to change the colour or to repaint scratched and damaged paint work. They are also responsible for preparing the surfaces which are to be spray-painted and for mixing the paint to the exact shade required.
What am I going to do in this occupation?
Firstly, the surface to be painted should be properly prepared and be free of dirt and grease. Once this has been done, the paint on the section to be sprayed is carefully removed by means of sandpaper, or by the application of a special type of paint-removing liquid. The rest of the bodywork is covered with paper in order to protect it from being discoloured by the fresh paint. At first a preliminary coat of red or grey primer is applied to the section to be painted and allowed to dry.
The whole surface is then covered with a thin layer of primer filler applied by means of a spray-gun, in order to fill up small dents and scratches. When dry, four or five coats of paint are sprayed onto the bodywork. Great care must be taken to ensure that the colour of the paint matches the rest of the paint work on the vehicle and to ensure an even application. The latter can only be obtained if an even pressure is maintained, if the gun is held at the correct distance and if the paint is not applied too thickly or too thinly.
The paint is allowed to dry thoroughly in the sunlight or by means of artificial heat and is then treated with sandpaper and a special polish to produce a shiny surface and to ensure a smooth, even effect. Nowadays, baked enamel paint is highly recommended.
Spray-painters usually work in garages or in motor workshops. The work is normally done in daylight, but working overtime may necessitate working by artificial light. Spray painters' clothes are protected by means of an overall supplied by their employers. Suction fans are used to purify the air.
Requirements
What kind of personality do I need? Spray-painters must have good eyesight and
colour sense and be able to distinguish easily between various shades of the same colour. The ability to work with great accuracy is essential, especially when mixing the paint, where carelessness can result in paint being wasted.
In addition, a balanced eye-hand coordination, especially when spraying small areas, and neatness in order to produce a pleasing result, are valuable assets. An apprentice should be at least 16 years of age.
Where can I work?
In spite of the improved reliability of vehicles, accidents occur more frequently and an increasing number of apprentices have to be trained to meet the increasing demand. Spray-painters usually work in garages or in motor workshops.
Can I work for myself in this occupation?
The prospects of starting an own business are at present also very favorable for spray painters with sufficient experience and the necessary funds.
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