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Q&As since 1989


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Correcting the effects of caustic etch on polished aluminum

In using caustic foaming cleaner to degrease a large machine, the caustic etched the large polished aluminum panels covering the upper half of the machine leavining an uneven galvanized appearance.

Is there a coating that could be sprayed or painted on the aluminum to improve the appearance?

Gary Kennedy
Paper Mill Manager - Ancram, New York, USA
2006

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Your lucky it didn't do more damage.
Somebody messed up big time there.
Apart from sanding it off, there isn't much you can do.
Make sure the workers wear respirators.
Chew out the contractor for not knowing what they are doing.

Steve Clark
polishing/plating - Belfast, Maine, USA
2006

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2006

Paint is the only alternative to sanding which I would sand at last resort.
The ugly part of your now ugly machine is that every tiny pit is going to be a location to form corrosion or rust.
I do not like lawyers, but you have a great case for a lawsuit.

James Watts
- Navarre, Florida