How is a gravity-feed spray gun characterized?

A gravity-feed spray gun is characterized by having a cup located on top of the gun. This design allows paint to flow into the spray gun by the force of gravity, which helps to maintain a consistent flow of material while spraying. The positioning of the cup on top minimizes issues with paint delivery and can improve spray patterns, as gravity helps the paint travel directly into the nozzle without the need for additional suction. This design typically results in less waste of material and a more efficient spraying process, making it a preferred choice for many refinishing tasks.

Other configurations, like suction-feed guns, involve cups positioned at the bottom or side and rely on a vacuum to draw paint into the gun, which can create more complexity in operation. The absence of a cup altogether would not facilitate the spraying of liquid, rendering it ineffective for painting applications. Therefore, the top-mounted cup of a gravity-feed spray gun is essential for its effective functioning and quality of the finish.