Yipes! Can I Spray Deck Seal w/ a Backpack Shurflo BAttery Unit??? Is it Safe?

[fireandrain]

Hi Guys,

So I bought a src-600 shurflo backpack pump sprayer, the battery charged type unit. Was under the impression that it would be a safe, effecient way to spray my decks with sealant after pw work.

I got all set up to spray my first deck this morning and the damn thing had a small label on it saying: not for use w/ flammable liquids..."

I remember hearing somewher on the board that lots of guys use these backpack units to spray stains,etc...

Does anyone know what the story is here? The battery is well tucked away, and the guys at shurflo told me that they dont recomend it ( perhaps liability issues?)

I went ahead and loaded it up and sprayed the deck and, i didnt blow up! Thankfully, but I felt VERY nervous all day about it.

Any advice or shared experience with this kind of thing?

Input is much appreciated!

Thanks!

Matt

 

[StainlessDeal]

I Didn't Blow Up Either

I've used one since last year, but don't do a whole lot of deckwork. RS seems to go through just fine without becoming torch fuel. I called Shurflo before purchase, and the woman there told me it was OK to use for sealers.

Then again, she also seemed to be in India, so who really knows? I share your worry, but more so last year. A friend with some expertise in electrical installation in explosive atmospheres told me the main problem Shurflo probably had in mind was use of esters lighter than the oils in most sealers. Things like thinners and gasoline. In enclosed spaces and still air, there is a risk from heat, or arcing. The arcing problem should be mostly during installation/removal of the battery.

He says normal use shouldn't approach high enough temps in the battery pack or pump to cause an explosion, but that malfunctioning equipment could be very dangerous.

Hows that for a "Yes, but then, no" answer? Sorry that's the best info I have.

If it helps, I still use it to throw seal. I don't think the risks are high, but I'm sure they exist.

 

[fireandrain]

Thanks for sharing your experience with this one Scott, sounds like your right about where I am right now. Do it, dont feel TOO nervous, but don't be TOO surprised if you find yourself running across a deck engulfed in flames some day ( with a few body parts missing perhaps...)

Well, there are more guys on the board who can put their two cents in on this one? Sounds like there are more guys than just myself wondering about the "REAL" risks of spraying seal with a backpack shurflo set up. Matt

 

[Mark]

I have always worried about backpack sprayers leaking
chemicals on your back or butt. :burn:

 

[StainlessDeal]

No Burns on My Back or Butt

I have always worried about backpack sprayers leaking
chemicals on your back or butt. :burn:

Yeah, that's a concern of mine too. I don't use it for any strong caustic or acid compounds. I have shot some 50/50 10.5% and water mixes with the rechargeable. So far , no leaking, but I don't use it filled to the brim, either.

Also, it's good to remember not to bend over while using a backpack!

 

[CaroliProWash]

It's not our favorite method of delivery of anything, however, when we did have to use ours with stripper in it, not only was my applicator wearing his pvc coat, I also "diapered" the back and bottom of the sprayer with some more plastic to contain any leakage had it occurred. Looked hilarious but it was certainly better than the possibility of a fried buttcrack!

Celeste