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 How
do I prepare my new aluminum surface for painting?
>Aluminum
surfaces that have never been painted require special preparation.
New aluminum has a thin layer of pure aluminum coating the
top surface. This
alclad surface is not favorable to adhesion of primers.
The surface of new aluminum must be roughened to accept
primer. This is
accomplished using a conversion coating.
What
are the steps for applying conversion coating to new aluminum?
>First
of all, wash the part thoroughly using 310 alkaline cleaner.
Then use E-2300 Conversion Coating, dilute according to the
directions, and apply using a brush or a sponge.
Keep the surface wet for at least 5-7 minutes.
Then rinse completely with clean water.
Do not allow the coating to dry on the surface.
Should
I take any precautions with these chemcials?
>When using conversion coating always
protect your eyes and your hands.
An eye shield is best to use.
What
about repainting old aluminum surfaces?
>After
stripping off the old paint the surface must then be cleaned and
properly prepared. Remove
any corrosion using fine sandpaper or Scotch Brite pads.
Old aluminum must be acid etched before being treated with
conversion coating. Use
E-2310 Acid Etch. Dilute
it with two parts of water and apply it using an ultra-fine Scotch
Brite pad. Rinse it
thoroughly with clean water. Then
apply the E-2300 as discussed for new aluminum.
Should
I always prime an aluminum surface before painting?
>Absolutely.
You must prime aluminum surfaces prior to painting.
Use only an epoxy primer (EP-420).
Epoxy primer will provide corrosion protection and also
provide a bonding surface for the topcoat paint.
What
if the part has zinc chromate on it.
Do I need to remove that prior to spraying on the epoxy
primer?
>Usually you can sand the surface completely and then spray epoxy
primer over the zinc chromate.
Occasionally epoxy primer will lift old zinc chromate.
If that is the case you should strip it off.
What
color primer should I use?
>That is up to you.
White and green are available.
If you are painting a light color as the final topcoat you
will probably want to use the white primer.
Can
I brush the primer on the aluminum surface?
>Brushing
it on will provide corrosion protection for the metal but you will
not be able to get a smooth, glossy surface with the final topcoat.
You should spray the primer on aluminum surfaces that will
receive topcoat paint.
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