Spraying Systems Co. Distributor

Choosing the Right Nozzles

There are some important specifications to consider when selecting nozzles for your application. Here's a list with some explanation for each one:

Inlet Connection: This refers to the threaded end of the nozzles that screws into the outlet of spray guns, wands, IBA arms, arches, and other equipment. The inlet size should match the outlet size. The gender of the inlet should be the opposite of the outlet. For example, a nozzle with a 1/4" MNPT inlet would match up with a 1/4" FNPT outlet.

Pressure: Measured in PSI, or pounds per square inch, you should pay close attention to the pressure capability of the nozzles you select. Understand the operating pressure of your equipment and make sure it's within the acceptable range listed in nozzle product specifications. For safety and performance, your operating pressure should never exceed the maximum pressure of the nozzle you use.

Material: The material of the nozzle should be chosen based on the type of liquid being sprayed and the operating conditions. The most common materials include brass, stainless steel, Kynar, and polypropylene.

Flow Rate: The flow rate of a nozzle, measured in GPM (gallons per minute), indicates the volume of liquid that the nozzle can spray in a minute. The right flow rate depends on your specific application requirements.

Spray Angle: A nozzle's spray angle is the initial spread of liquid as it leaves the nozzle, determining how wide the coverage is and the impact force. Larger angles provide wider but less concentrated coverage (best for rinsing) and smaller angles providing concentrated impact (ideal for cleaning).

Pattern: Determines the shape of the spray, with the most common options being flat fan, solid stream, full cone, or hollow cone. Each pattern is suitable for specific applications.

Explaining Spray Patterns

Here's a quick breakdown of the types of spray patterns you can choose from when shopping Spraying Systems nozzles:

Flat Spray: Produce a flat fan or sheet-type spray pattern. They are ideal for cleaning, rinsing, and coating. Recommended Product Lines: VeeJet, WashJet, and UniJet. You can also consider FlatJet for high-impact needs and FloodJets for wide-angle, medium-impact spraying purposes.

Full Cone: Provide a solid cone-shaped spray pattern with a circular impact pattern. Excellent for washing, rinsing, and dust control. Recommended Product Lines: UniJet and FullJet.

Solid Stream: Generate a continuous, unbroken line of liquid. This pattern is used for cutting, cleaning, injecting, and targeted cooling. Recommended Product Lines: VeeJet, WashJet, and UniJet.

Hollow Cone: Nozzles with this pattern produce a ring-shaped spray suitable for cooling, washing, and dust control. Recommended Product Line: UniJet.

Fine Spray: Characterized by the small droplets they produce, which are ideal for humidifying, fogging, and dust control.

Air Atomizing: Produce VERY fine spray droplets using compressed air for atomization rather than hydraulic pressure. They are used for coating, humidifying, and fogging.

Fine Spray and Air Atomizing nozzles are not commonly used in the car wash industry, so we recommend contacting Spraying Systems directly to explore options for these applications.

Primary Industries that Spraying Systems Serves

• Car Wash
• Automotive & Metal Fabrication
• Chemical / Petrochemical
• Food & Beverage
• Pulp & Paper
• Pharmaceutical
• Steelmaking
• Engineered Wood
• Agriculture

Applications

• Cleaning
• Coating
• Cooling
• Drying / Blow-off
• Lubrication
• Food Safety
• Fire Protection
• Gas Cooling & Conditioning
• Spray Drying

Common Spraying Systems Issues and Troubleshooting

Although Spraying Systems products are engineered for durability and high performance, like any precision equipment, they can occasionally encounter issues that impact operation and efficiency. One of the most common problems is nozzle clogging, which is often caused by debris or mineral buildup within the spray tip. This can reduce spray uniformity, decrease pressure, and lead to uneven application—especially in car wash environments where water quality varies and systems operate continuously. Another frequent issue is nozzle wear: over time, abrasive cleaning chemicals or high-flow water can erode internal components, causing enlarged or misshapen orifices that negatively affect spray patterns and increase resource consumption. Check out our blog post about worn nozzles to learn more!

In each of these cases, operators can minimize downtime and system inefficiency by adhering to a routine maintenance schedule—regularly inspecting, cleaning, and replacing worn parts. Selecting the proper nozzle material can also extend service life, as stainless steel and specialty plastics provide superior resistance to corrosion or chemical attack. It’s essential to address these issues promptly to maintain optimal system performance and avoid unnecessary operational costs. If unsure about a specific problem, consulting Spraying Systems’ documentation or contacting a knowledgeable distributor like Kleen-Rite can ensure you find the correct replacement part and keep your wash running smoothly.

Spraying Systems Competitors

Spraying Systems Co. operates in a competitive market alongside several other reputable spray technology manufacturers. Among its top competitors are BETE, which is known globally for its innovative nozzle design and custom spray solutions, particularly in industrial and environmental applications. Delavan is another key player, specializing in durable, high-performance spray nozzles often used in agricultural and industrial settings. Additionally, Lechler is recognized for its advanced engineering and precision in spray technology, catering to a diverse range of industries, including food processing and automotive manufacturing. These companies, like Spraying Systems, have built solid reputations on reliability, engineering quality, and a broad product selection. Through many years of both serving car wash operators and running our own car washes, Kleen-Rite has found that Spraying Systems Co. is simply unmatched in terms of performance, selection, and quality when it comes to car wash nozzle needs. As such, they are the primary nozzle manufacturer offered by Kleen-Rite.