The Iwata Revolution HP-SAR

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Information

Classification:	Airbrush
Manufacturer:	Iwata
Model:	HP-SAR
Part Number:	R 1000
Suggested Retail Price:	$104 USD

Specifications

Paint feed System:	Siphon Feed
Trigger Style:	Single Action
Spray Type:	Internal Mix
Spray Range:	~ .25 mm to ~01.5 inches
Cup Size:	Varies
Air Consumption:	~ 0.2 cfm
Pressure Tolerance:	< 100 psi
Standard Tip Size:	0.5 mm
Optional Tip Size:	0.3 mm

Matching Rules

I never start someone interested in airbrushing anything complicated on a single action airbrush.
The HP-SAR is simply a tool you point and shoot with.

It doesn't require a lot of extra training. You don't need to be an artist to use it. In fact, if you are an artist you should probably go look at the Revolution SAR or Revolution CR.
Scientists, engineers, and researchers tend to be good fit

You're probably looking for something to implement a great idea you had. Something to use as part of a process. That means you want the tool to limit as may variables as possible. Separating the the air flow (on/off) from the paint flow is a good thing for you. The next step from a single action airbrush is to move into an automatic spray gun. Since they take the person out of the process.

Useful Accessories

External Micro Air Control Valve
Pistol Grip Moisture Filter

This accessory doesn't always fit when you use large bottles. Of course you can simply fit the bottle in a little off-skew and it'll be fine.
Quick Disconnect
Table Top Cleaning Station

Features

Ergonomic Handle
Teflon Needle Packing

Notes and Opinions:

The HP-SAR is an excellent siphon feed airbrush.

It sprays great. It feels good, but most people need more control than it offers.
They're generally easy to work with and replacement parts won't cost you an arm and a leg.
Excellent for research applications

I know they've been used in aerospace coating applications and tried in the semi conductor industry. Of course, I don't know all that much since most of the engineers I talked to were under non-disclosure agreements. I also know they've been used successfully in many university engineering departments.

Cleaning Guide Links

Because I don't have dedicated cleaning guides for the HP-SAR I've included links to the next best thing. When you see a difference between the guide and your airbrush try and use the airbrush as your guide.

TIP: Remember to screw the fluid adjustment knob all the way in whenever you remove the needle!

Outstanding/Common Problems

Forgetting to Reset the Airbrush

Okay, after cleaning issues, here's the most common problem every HP-SAR owner faces. Forgetting to reset the airbrush after they remove the needle for cleaning.
Tip Dry

Tip dry sucks. It's also unavoidable when you spray. You can try chemical methods to reduce it (use a slow reducer for your paint--though that might not be an option depending on the environmental conditions you're spraying in). Or you can use mechanical means...other wise known as cleaning it off yourself!
- Approved Tip Dry Removal Method
- Unapproved (though common) Tip Dry Removal Method
Clogs

The smaller the nozzle, the more often your airbrush will clog. To avoid these clogs make sure you strain and thin your paint.
Weak Nozzle

Weak isn't quite the right word. The nozzle is fairly strong, however, you're stronger than the nozzle. This means that if you over tighten it it WILL break. BE CAREFUL!
Bent needles

It's common, and it's your fault. If you remove the needle cap to spray finer details you'll eventually bump the needle tip into something.

The good news is that if you feel mechanically adept you can try repairing the needle yourself.

The bad news is that most people don't do so great a job their first time repairing and polishing needles. You'll probably want to go purchase another needle and possibly keep a spare around if this ever happens again.