Metal finishing Q&As since 1989
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Help to remove fingerprints from powdercoated surface needed
I import and market amplifiers that have a powdercoated steel body. I am finding fingerprints very hard to remove from demo models especially if someone has just been munching on a hamburger!
Detergent and warm water does not get the ingrained print out. The best way I have found to disguise the prints is to spray silicon onto a microfibre cloth, wipe the whole casing and then buff off with a dry microfibre cloth. This does not remove prints but subtly darkens the whole casing and makes them harder to see. Any other ideas please?
Importer - Hastings, New Zealand
December 16, 2008
First of two simultaneous responses --
Depends on the powder type you use. Some are more resistant to staining than others.
If its for indoor use only then you might consider changing to epoxy powder.
Of course you could specify one of the anti-graffiti powders (polyurethane) that clean up with citrus juice.
Geoff Crowley
Crithwood Ltd.
Westfield, Scotland, UK
December 18, 2008
Second of two simultaneous responses -- December 18, 2008
Unfortunately, you do not inform us of the colour and/or the degree of matte-ness. Therefore, we can only presume that it is being supplied either in a metallic or a semi matt to matt colour format - matt black and chrome PC being the worst.
The answer could be to request a clear coat as the final top coat to act as a barrier or an maybe an increase in the gloss level could be the answer for either PC format.
There are new finishes that prevent finger printing based on sol technology but only available in clear (I think).
Birmingham, United Kingdom
I agree that you should look at epoxy powders but also try cleaning with methylated spirits or methylated spirits diluted with water.
Also don't eat hamburgers, they are not good for you.
- Melbourne, Vic, Australia
January 7, 2009
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