The Department of Defense (DOD) is seeking proposals for the development of a high volume low pressure (HVLP) style spray gun for rapid cure ultra-high solid (UHS) coating systems. The objective is to create a spray gun that allows for the application of UHS coatings at low thickness for specific areas such as propulsors or geometrically complex superstructures. The current airless coating spray equipment used for UHS coatings delivers the coating at high pressure and volume, making it difficult to control film build and spread during application. The Navy, in particular, requires a spray gun that can achieve adequate volume and tailored spray capabilities, while also being lightweight, able to handle high fluid pressures, and capable of spraying coating film between 2-10 mils wet film thickness per pass. The development of such a spray gun would greatly improve production efficiency and the ability to control the application of UHS coatings in marine environments. The Phase I of the project involves defining and developing a concept for the spray gun, while Phase II focuses on developing and delivering a working prototype. In Phase III, the goal is to assist the Navy in transitioning from prototype to full production, with potential commercial applications in industries such as polyurea/insulation and industrial coating. The project has a funding range of $100,000 to $1,500,000 and a project duration of up to 24 months. For more information, visit the SBIR topic link.