Spray cans have become such an integral part of our lives that we tend to take them for granted. But in doing so we forget that these products are a result of sophisticated engineering practices that have been studied and refined over several decades to provide us with the Spray Can as we know it today. Let's take a closer look at what makes these dispensing systems operate the way they do.

It all started with an invention conceived by Eric Rotheim, who was both an engineer and an inventor. Most of the elements of the spray can were already present in the original design, but there have been several improvements over the course of time. 

The Role of the Spray Can

The spray can makes use of a mechanism which is responsible for the conversion of a liquid into a mist of finely dispersed particles. In order to make the conversion an instantaneous reaction and save time, the liquid is kept stored inside the container in a state of high pressure, at several times the ordinary room temperature. Due to this, once released from the can, the liquid escapes at a very high pressure and expands to take on a gas-like form at room temperature. This rapid expansion is also the reason why gas exiting the can feels so cold, as it is following the chemical rule that a gas which is made to expand at a drastic rate rapidly looses its heat energy.

The Role of Valve Balls

Another important component of the spray can that is essential for its proper function is the ball valve. A quarter turn valve which makes use of a hollow, pivoting and perforated ball to control the passage of a fluid or gas through it is known as a ball valve. A handle is needed to control the position of the valve. When the hole present within the valve is in line with the opening through which the fluid is supposed to flow, the action of the fluid flow is able to occur. Releasing the handle places the ball at a ninety-degree angle to the line of flow, causing the passage to close.

This function of valve balls is used in many types of machines and equipment which make use of shut-off and control applications. Valve balls are used in transmission and storage, gas processing, and industrial applications. Additionally, everyday products that are used by most people, contain valve balls such as spray can like hairspray, aerosol deodorant, and WD-40 spray lubricant.

In Spray Cans, it is the ball valve's responsibility to ensure that the gas is only allowed to escape as and when directed by the user, who is able to press the valve and direct the nozzle at the desired target.

Thus we see that a lot goes on within the Spray Can than meets the eye. The combination of high-pressure fluid and the presence of valve balls ensure that you are able to make use of the can at your convenience in a quick, efficient manner.