In recent years both inflatable and retractable spray booths have grown in popularity due to their clear benefits over traditional static spray booths. Both types benefit from being mobile and can be collapsed to save space when not in use. But which is best, and why would you choose one over the other?
What Are Inflatable Spray Booths?
A spray booth in its simplest form is a totally enclosed area, often featuring a fan and filter to catch paint overspray.
Inflatable, or pop-up, spray booths consist of large tubes of plasticised fabric that are inflated to act as a support for the structure. They generally require a permanently running fan or blower to keep them inflated.
What Are Retractable Spray Booths?
Unlike an inflatable booth, the structure of these spray booths is provided by a folding metal frame. The sides are made from a flexible plastic material, which can be extended out to create the sealed room and folded back as the metal framework is retracted.
The booths usually include a fan and filter to make sure that air entering the booth is free of contaminants and that paint particles and other hazardous chemicals do not exit the booth.
Benefits of Inflatable Spray Booths
Cost
One of the main reasons why inflatable spray booths exist is that they are often cheaper than a more solid frame. They are constructed using lighter, cheaper plastic materials, and include smaller, low-cost fans and filters. This lower level of quality makes them popular among the DIY and hobby market, where they might only be used occasionally.
Weight
With no metal structure, the total weight of an inflatable booth is likely to be less than that of a retractable booth. Similarly, smaller and less robust fans and filters are likely to be lighter as well. One exception in weight difference is the blower required to keep an inflatable booth inflated. Such blowers are not required for retractable spray booths.
Benefits of Retractable Spray Booths
Durability
In contrast to inflatables, retractable spray booths are made mainly for the trade or professional spray paint sector. For this reason, they are designed for long-term use, and use materials that are more robust and more closely aligned with commercial and industrial specifications.
This same durability means that many retractable spray booths are suitable for outdoor use, with materials and framework designed to stand up to rain and wind. This structure can easily be weighted or fixed down.
Time-Saving
Retractable spray booths are designed to fold away quickly after use, with the sides and roof folding back alongside the metal framework. This is in contrast to inflatable spray booths, which take time to pack away as the material layers have to be carefully folded to prevent puncturing.
Compliance
Commercial spray painting is carefully regulated; therefore, the design and performance of professional spray booths must meet government standards. Regulations include:
- Minimum air-flow levels
- Material flammability
Access
With non-retractable spray booths, including inflatables booths, the object that requires spraying must be moved into the booth, often involving cranes and pulleys.
When using a retractable booth, the object requiring spraying can be manoeuvred next to the booth, ready for the framework to be extended over it. This saves both time and space.
Both inflatable and retractable booths are popular and modern developments in spray painting. Inflatable booths are a quick and convenient tool for hobbyists and amateur spray paint enthusiasts looking to work on their project over the weekend. Retractable spray booths cater more for the commercial and industrial sectors. They are an innovative and efficient solution that can save a business both time and money.
It is recommended that you closely consider your specific circumstances and needs before purchasing a spray booth, to ensure that the booth you choose fully satisfies your commercial requirements.
Masterflo Retractable Spray Booths
Masterflo manufacture a unique range of professional retractable spray booths aimed at the automotive and industrial spray paint sectors. They are built with high-performance fire-rated reinforced nylon sheeting, designed to stand up to the rigours of daily use. The lightweight folding steel frame is robust and designed to easily retract or extend, saving space and money. The fans and dry filters of the extract plenums are powerful and efficient, and designed to comply with the latest UK regulations and industry best practices. A wide range of standard sizes are available, from small portable units for a single car, to large modular versions suitable for large commercial vehicles or even trains or boats. For more information, read our spray booth overview or contact the Masterflo team.
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