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Spray Can Hacks Every Engineer Should Know
Blocked nozzles, zinc that won’t mix, silicone causing paint issues—ringing any bells?
If you use aerosol sprays on the job, chances are you’ve run into these annoyances. But good news: with a few simple hacks, you can make your sprays last longer, perform better, and stop wasting time (and product) in the process.
Here’s a list of common spray problems and how to avoid them:
1. Nozzle Blocked? Clear It Like a Pro
If your can stops spraying, it’s usually because residue’s dried up in the nozzle. Classic.
Hack: After spraying, flip the can upside down and give it a quick blast until only clear gas comes out. It flushes out the nozzle so it’s ready for next time.
2. Zinc Spray That Won’t Mix
Zinc sprays can be stubborn; thick particles settle fast, and shaking them can feel like a workout.
Hack: Store zinc sprays upside down. It keeps the heavy zinc near the valve so it mixes quicker and sprays more evenly when you need it.
⚠️ Only do this with zinc-based sprays—others should stay upright.
3. Silicone Causing Paint to Fail
If used at the wrong time, silicone spray can wreck paint jobs. Nothing sticks to silicone once it’s down.
Hack: Only apply silicone after painting and once everything’s fully cured. Use it sparingly and only where it’s needed, to avoid paint headaches later.
4. Not Sure Which Food-Grade Spray to Use?
Food-grade sprays can’t be a guessing game; especially when compliance is on the line.
Hack: Always check the MPI C-grade rating on the can:
- C11 needs rinsing off food contact surfaces.
- C15 / C26 can be used where incidental contact is allowed.
Still unsure? Your supplier (that’s us) can help, or visit the MPI Food Safety website for the full list.
5. Spray Leaking or Losing Pressure?
Heat and poor storage conditions can mess with spray cans; loss of pressure, damaged formula, or even leaks.
Hack: Store sprays in a cool, dry place, away from sun and heat. Keep caps on to prevent accidental pressure loss or nozzle damage.
6. Sick of Splatter and Overspray?
Holding the can on an angle or blocking the nozzle can cause splatters and messy spray patterns.
Hack: Hold the can upright, and angle the nozzle slightly upwards. This keeps paint from building up on the rim and avoids unatomised blobs.
7. Uneven Finish from Separated Paint
If you’re not shaking your can properly, you’ll get patchy, uneven coverage; or worse, blockages.
Hack: Shake until you hear the mixing ball, then keep shaking for another 1–2 minutes. Cold day? Shake it a little longer to fully blend the formula.
Bonus Tip: Upside-Down Can? Flip the Clear-Out
Upside-down cans need a reverse approach to cleaning.
Hack: If the can sprays upside down by design, flip it upright to clear the nozzle post-use; spray until only clear gas comes out.
Need help finding the right sprays for your job?
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