Chris Sullivan offers some guidance on sprayer use:
Viscosity and solids usually dictate the pressure required, with higher viscosity or higher solids dictating higher application pressure.
Regarding key application issues, the most important is coverage rate. Over-application leads to wasted material and other problems with the project down the road. Using the right sprayer with the right spray tip is critical. A good sprayer with the wrong tip can lead to over- or under-application. Over-application leads to issues of stain residue, sealer-adhesion issues and potential product failure.
Care and maintenance of the sprayer “is all about cleaning after use.” Leaving stain or sealer in the sprayer after use and during storage leads to clogged lines, stuck valves, clogged tips and, in many cases, a useless sprayer.