Which type of spray gun is considered the most environmentally harmful?

Air Atomized spray guns are considered the most environmentally harmful due to the way they operate and the amount of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) they emit during application. These guns utilize compressed air to atomize the paint, which can lead to a fine mist being created, resulting in overspray and increased air pollution. The fine particulates that are generated may not only lead to waste material but also pose health risks for workers as well as negative environmental impacts.

Additionally, the use of air pressures in air atomized systems often results in significant amounts of material that do not adhere to the intended surface, further contributing to pollution. This inefficiency in paint use can lead to higher VOC emissions compared to other spray methods, particularly those designed with more efficient application mechanics, such as airless or electrostatic options, which typically lead to lower overspray and waste.