Graco setting new standards with Ergonomic Air Spray Guns
When it comes to industrial painting, precision and durability are paramount. Yet, anyone who’s spent hours in a paint booth knows the toll it takes on the body. Enter Graco Inc., a leader in fluid handling equipment, with their revolutionary introduction of Stellair™ and Stellair ACE, the world’s first industrial air spray guns certified for ergonomic performance. These sprayers are designed not just to enhance productivity, but to improve the well-being of the industrial painters who rely on them every day.
In an industry where long hours and repetitive motions are common, Graco’s move toward ergonomically certified tools signals a shift in focus toward worker health and efficiency. Advanced testing conducted by United States Ergonomics proves these sprayers reduce fatigue, which leads to higher productivity and a better quality of life for the people who use them.
A Hands-On Approach to Innovation
To truly understand the day-to-day challenges faced by industrial painters, Graco’s leadership team, including Peter Linder, vice president of North American sales and global product management, stepped into the boots of the painters themselves. Linder vividly recalls his time working in a factory paint booth: “My shoulder especially hurt at the end of the day,” he said, underscoring the physical strain that painters experience. That first-hand encounter pushed Graco to champion a product line that painters wouldn’t just use but actively seek out because it enhances their work environment.
From that experience came the Stellair™ and Stellair ACE, designed with one key goal in mind: to make industrial painting easier on the body while maintaining high performance.
Lighter, Stronger, Smarter
The Stellair ACE is a true featherweight in the world of industrial spray guns, tipping the scales at just 209 grams (7.4 ounces). Constructed from carbon-reinforced polymer, it’s nearly 50% lighter than most manual pressure feed spray guns currently on the market. Less weight doesn’t just mean it’s easier to handle—it translates to a massive reduction in muscle effort, with 25% less strain than comparable tools.
Its counterpart, the Stellair, made from aluminium, weighs 410 grams (14.46 ounces). While heavier than the ACE, it’s still among the lightest options available, reducing muscle exertion by 18% compared to its competitors. This balance of weight and strength ensures that industrial painters have a tool that’s tough, yet easy on the body.
Graco’s engineers didn’t stop at weight reduction. They meticulously re-engineered several aspects of the design to minimize hand pressure points, improve balance, and increase hose flexibility. These enhancements ensure that the guns not only feel great in hand but also operate smoothly, reducing the fatigue that comes with long hours of repetitive motion.
Achieving Ergonomics Certification
The journey toward ergonomic certification wasn’t a simple one. Graco partnered with United States Ergonomics, a renowned ergonomic consulting and product testing firm, to ensure that the Stellair™ and Stellair ACE weren’t just comfortable but also met the highest standards for reducing physical strain.
The certification process involved three critical stages:
- Design Analysis and Optimisation: Graco’s designs were evaluated from an ergonomic standpoint to pinpoint potential stress points and areas for improvement.
- Design Review and Testing: After making necessary adjustments, the new designs were tested in real-world scenarios by professional painters.
- Ergonomic Assessment: The final evaluation measured how the redesigned spray guns affected muscle use, posture, and overall comfort.
During these tests, painters consistently rated the Stellair™ and Stellair ACE higher than any comparable models. They noted improvements in weight, hand fit, feel, balance, and trigger control, according to Kevin Costello, President of United States Ergonomics. This feedback played a crucial role in the certification, ensuring that these tools provide tangible ergonomic benefits.
How Ergonomics Transforms the Industrial Painting Industry
While some might see ergonomic certification as just a label, it has profound implications for the future of industrial painting. According to studies, repetitive motion injuries account for a significant portion of workplace health issues, especially in physically demanding roles like industrial painting. With tools that reduce the risk of injury, companies not only protect their workforce but also increase efficiency by reducing downtime due to fatigue or injury.
Moreover, the ergonomic improvements in the Stellair™ and Stellair ACE mean that painters can maintain a high level of precision for longer periods. This results in better quality finishes and fewer mistakes—a win-win for both the painter and the company.
Why Ergonomics Matter in Industrial Applications
Industrial painters often face gruelling hours, repetitive tasks, and awkward body postures. Over time, these factors contribute to fatigue, muscle strain, and even chronic injuries. But when ergonomically sound tools are introduced, these risks diminish significantly.
For Graco, creating the first air spray guns with Ergonomics Performance Certification wasn’t just about developing a better product. It was about transforming the way industrial painters work, giving them tools that prioritise their health and longevity on the job. As Graco continues to push boundaries in ergonomic design, the industry will likely follow suit, making ergonomics a standard, not an afterthought.
Setting a New Industry Standard
With the introduction of Stellair™ and Stellair ACE, Graco has done more than just introduce new products; they’ve set a new benchmark for what industrial tools should be. These air spray guns don’t just get the job done—they make the job easier, safer, and more sustainable for the people who use them.
As industrial painting continues to evolve, innovations like these ensure that both productivity and worker health can go hand in hand.
