VISTA, Cali. — Apollo Sprayers, a family-owned, American manufacturer of high volume, low pressure (HVLP) spray systems, is celebrating 60 years of advancing HVLP electric paint sprayer technology. 2026 marks six decades of innovation, performance, and enduring relationships within the automotive, woodworking, and professional paint industries.

Founded by John B. Darroch, Apollo’s growth is a testament to persistence, adaptability, and customer commitment that spans three generations of family leadership. Today, Apollo Sprayers manufactures its HVLP systems in Vista, California, continuing its legacy as a family-owned American company. 

In its earliest days, Apollo faced a significant challenge: imported spray systems built overseas were incompatible with North America’s 110-volt electrical standard. Rather than accept costly limitations, the company shifted to importing component kits and sourcing electric motors domestically. Systems were assembled in the United States, reducing costs and improving efficiency while strengthening quality control. That operational innovation became a defining characteristic of the Apollo brand.

Apollo quickly expanded from its original warehouse into larger facilities in Fountain Valley, California, steadily growing its footprint while maintaining hands-on oversight and family-driven leadership. 

One of the company’s most significant milestones came with the validation of transfer efficiency, a key performance metric that measures how much paint reaches the surface versus becoming overspray.

Through independent laboratory testing under approved protocols, Apollo demonstrated over 80 percent transfer efficiency, ranking second only to electrostatic spraying. This achievement solidified HVLP technology as an efficient alternative in professional finishing applications.

For woodworking professionals, the results meant less overspray, reduced material waste, and improved air quality. For automotive refinishers and custom painters, it translated into superior control when spraying metallics, pearls, clear coats, and specialty finishes. With rising material costs and increasing environmental regulations, Apollo’s documented efficiency, often saving up to 40 percent on coatings, continues to provide measurable value.

“Our 60-year milestone represents more than longevity,” said John Darroch, president and CEO of Apollo Sprayers. “It represents relationships with our customers, employees, and industry partners. We have always focused on building systems that deliver real performance benefits, and that commitment has never changed.”

As the spray finishing industry continues evolving, Apollo remains focused on advancing turbine technology, optimizing airflow management, and improving application control for modern waterborne and solvent-based coatings.

For more information about Apollo Sprayers and its full line of HVLP electric painting systems, visit www.hvlp.com.