Automated Finishing 101: The Basics of Automated Wood Finishing
- Superfici America
- Sep 2
- 2 min read
Welcome to the Finishing Touch Podcast from Superfici America, hosted by Bret Johnson. In this episode, Bret sits down with lab technician Bryan Mitchem to break down automated finishing basics. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a new operator, this conversation covers everything from sanding techniques to spray gun selection, coating types, and why automation is transforming the woodworking industry.
Why Proper Preparation is the Key to Finishing
Every great finish starts with a properly prepared substrate. As Bryan explains:
Whitewood sanding: Typically 120–220 grit for raw wood.
Primer sanding: Finer grits, usually 280–400 (320 is industry standard).
Top coats: Often one primer and one top coat, though some shops use multiple layers.
Proper sanding ensures better adhesion, smoother aesthetics, and improved durability of coatings.
Bottlenecks in Wood Finishing
Finishing is often the slowest part of production, becoming the bottleneck in woodworking shops.
The three biggest slowdowns are:
Sanding
Spraying
Drying
While automating one step helps, true efficiency comes from integrating all three.
Water-Based vs. Solvent-Based Coatings
Choosing the right coating impacts performance, cost, and environmental impact.
Water-based coatings: Easier cleanup, more eco-friendly, and improving in quality.
Solvent-based coatings: Long-standing industry standard, often providing superior appearance.
Best practice: Flush systems properly when switching between coatings, using acetone as a bridge to avoid contamination.
Spray Gun Technology Explained
Bryan highlights three main types of spray guns:
Airless: High fluid pressure, no atomization air—ideal for smooth finishes.
Air-Assisted Airless: Medium pressure, moderate atomization air—a versatile “jack of all trades.”
HVLP (High Volume, Low Pressure): Low fluid pressure with high atomization air—commonly used for stains.
Selecting the right tip size based on coating viscosity is also critical for consistent results.
Measuring and Controlling Coating Thickness
A wet mil gauge ensures correct film thickness. Too little coating causes poor coverage, while too much can lead to cracking, blistering, or adhesion issues. Superfici America even provides free wet mil gauges to customers to make quality control easier.
Maintenance and Longevity of Finishing Equipment
Well-maintained finishing machines can last decades. Superfici’s software-based maintenance calendar reminds operators when service is due, helping prevent costly downtime and ensuring consistent performance.
Why Automation Matters in Finishing
Automated finishing offers several advantages:
Increased throughput and consistency
Reduced labor challenges in finding skilled finishers
Improved worker safety and ergonomics
Enhanced quality and repeatability
Integrated finishing lines can include material handling, line supervision, and even remote support from Superfici America.
Key Takeaways from This Episode
Proper sanding is the foundation of a great finish.
Automation addresses common bottlenecks in sanding, spraying, and drying.
Both water- and solvent-based coatings have unique advantages—flushing properly is essential when switching.
Spray gun selection (airless, air-assisted, HVLP) directly impacts coating performance.
Routine maintenance dramatically extends the life of finishing equipment.