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Finishing of Guard Rail Framework for a houseboat

The framework is manufactured by welding Al tubes to form the structure. Is there any way to clean the joints and the tubes to a bright finish (like an ANODIZED surface) and then coat it for scratch protection ?

Thank you for your guidance !

Ashwin P. Badve
- Micro Metals, Inc.
1998

I'm assuming this rail is already installed on a boat. Your best bet is to purchase about 6 Black & Decker buffing wheels from your local hardware store, red brown tripoli rouge (polishing/buffing compound) [affil links]; put the 6 buffing wheels on a portable grinder shaft and buff the aluminum rail. I estimate approximately 30 minutes per 1 ft. of rail. Be sure to wear the appropriate safety clothes. If you need any more help contact a local metal polishing shop.

Gary Patigler
Richmond, California
1998

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