Five new spray nozzle designs aim to improve atomization, reduce overspray, and help collision repair shops make better use of refinishing materials.
SEMA Nov.5, 2026 — 3M has introduced a new line of Precision Finish Nozzles designed to improve paint application efficiency and simplify the refinishing process for collision repair technicians.
Unveiled at the 2026 SEMA Show, the five-nozzle system uses advanced micro-injection moulding technology to create fluid tips with different internal shapes and channels, each engineered for specific automotive coatings.
The designs address a longstanding limitation of conventional spray nozzles, which typically use standardized cylindrical openings. Because automotive coatings vary in viscosity and composition, a single nozzle design may not deliver optimal performance across different products.
3M developed the new nozzle geometries using computational fluid dynamics and rheology, the study of how materials flow under pressure. The objective is to improve atomization and coating coverage while requiring less air pressure during application.
The five nozzles are designed for different stages of the refinishing process, including primer, sealer, waterborne basecoat, solvent-borne basecoat, and clearcoat applications.
According to 3M, the redesigned fluid tips can help improve paint transfer efficiency, reduce overspray, and limit material waste. Depending on the coating, equipment settings, and application conditions, the technology could also help shops reduce operating costs.
“Nozzle design matters. With the right design and shape, a spray nozzle can interact with paint with far less energy while reaping greater benefits,” said Jason Garfoot, global portfolio manager for paint application at 3M.
He said the company used advanced modelling and micro-injection moulding to develop nozzle designs that work with different coating formulations, improving atomization and coverage while operating at lower air pressures.
The new nozzles are designed to work with 3M Performance Spray Guns and can be changed quickly between applications. They can also be cleaned using existing solvents and cleaning methods. Each nozzle is designed to provide hundreds of hours of spray time before replacement.
The Precision Finish Nozzles are expected to be available through regular distribution channels in February 2027.
About 3M
3M develops products and technologies for the automotive aftermarket, including collision repair, refinishing, abrasives, adhesives, and paint application systems. Its automotive aftermarket solutions are designed to support repair quality, shop productivity, and efficient use of materials. Learn more at 3m.com.