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Request
What does I-CAR say about preparation step for aluminum panels prior to refinishing?
Response
Per I-CAR curriculum: When working with aluminum:
- Do not use grits coarser than 80. Aluminum is soft and scratches easily.
- Clean bare aluminum surfaces with soap and water. This will remove any water-soluble contaminants. Follow this with wax and grease remover. These two steps will ensure a clean part with no contaminants.
- Apply a metal cleaner and conversion coating made specifically for aluminum, if required.
Preparing Aluminum for Refinishing
After being left uncoated for an extended period, aluminum creates an aluminum-oxide coating that needs to be removed. When preparing aluminum parts for refinishing, remove the oxide by sanding or abrading the surface. The oxide layer will begin to reform after the part is sanded. The rate at which aluminum oxidizes varies depending on temperature and humidity levels.
Refinishing preparation considerations include:
- Specific expelling or etching primers may be required by the vehicle maker or refinish product maker.
- Aluminum panels must be kept free from contact with steel particles when the aluminum is bare. Steel particles that embed into the panel will react with the aluminum and cause surface imperfections.
- Do not use tools and sanding materials on steel and then on aluminum. Cross-contamination from steel particles can result in galvanic corrosion in aluminum. This will also cause premature panel damage and paint failure.
