What is a consequence of a poorly adjusted air cap?

A poorly adjusted air cap can lead to uneven paint coverage because the air cap plays a crucial role in atomizing the paint as it exits the spray gun. When the air cap is not set correctly, it affects the spray pattern and the distribution of paint particles. This results in areas of the surface being over-sprayed or under-sprayed, leading to inconsistent layers of paint.

Uneven coverage can manifest as streaks, splotches, or patches that are either too thick or thin. Achieving a uniform and smooth finish is critical in painting, as it directly impacts the aesthetic quality and durability of the paint job. A well-adjusted air cap helps ensure that the paint is atomized properly and sprayed evenly across the surface, contributing to an overall professional finish.

While other options may seem plausible, they do not directly relate to the specific issue that arises from an incorrectly adjusted air cap. For instance, increased paint consumption could occur with various other issues, and improved finish quality is certainly not a result of poor adjustment.