Question
I am the process of constructing a 12-by-17-foot spray room in my shop. I have gathered the cost data for all necessary components: Explosion proof fan, alterations to existing sprinkler system, etc.
I was shocked when it came to the cost of explosion-proof lighting: $1,700 for one 4-foot, two-bulb flourescent fixture (I figure I would need at least four units). That's $7,000, plus installation.
I find it very hard to spend that kind of money on some light bulbs, although I do understand the safety issues involved. My electrician says we could possibly use dust-proof fixtures. I believe these are designed with a gasket and cover over the bulbs. Cost is only about $400 per. Still more than I wanted to spend on lighting, but better.
Can anyone give me some suggestions or other options? Are most of you guys using commercial spray booths? Any information would be appreciated. I can think of a lot of uses for $7,000; it would buy a heck of a lot of clamps.
Forum Responses
I was faced with the same problem. I found much lower pricing on the Internet, around $800 for a four-tube, eight-foot fixture. Also Grainger has four-foot, two-tube lights for about $400 each.
If you're in a highly industrialized area where OSHA is present, follow their specifications. If you know what is required, then you might want to check out some auctions. You can get some real good deals if you don't mind taking the booths apart and moving them. Just know what you're looking at and make sure they meet your requirements.
This could be one way to reduce that lighting expense. Lighting is very important but so is your health and safety.
You mentioned the explosion-proof fan; don't forget that the wiring needs to be explosion proof as well, if it's in the same air space as the spray vapors. The industrial spray booths should offer this as standard equipment.
As far as the money issue, I have, over the years, purchased three booths through advertisements in area "shopper" type papers. Or, as someone already suggested, look on the 'Net. I bought my last Binks booth, with two lights and a complete dry chemical extinguisher system, with piping, for about $1,000. You will have the hassle of removing and reconstructing on your site, but you will still save.
Comment from contributor A:
I have sold and installed spray booths for the past 12 years. The issues pertinent to your personal use of a self-built spray room can be found in the Uniform Fire Code, Article 45, the National Fire Protection Association NFPA 33 guidelines and the International Fire Code. Depends on what your local building department references. But know this: you are probably not in compliance if your spray process takes place in a residential neighborhood. In industrial or business neighborhoods you are probably not going to be successful for long unless you obtain the proper building permits. Doing the job right can cost a lot of money up front. But you will have proper tool for your process that will pay dividends like your other quality tools.
