aluminum surface prep

[julieanncharters]

what sort of discs are most of you guys using for Ali surface prep before welding ?
i've use flap dics to clean up profile cut edge's & i've tried poly abrasive discs for pre weld prep is there anything better.
i'm also looking for a larger finishing disc for large area's of 5083 Aluminum any one have any idea's.
just want a clean ali finish as its a boat
elfyn

 

[hotrodder]

I tend to use SCM abrasives, basically scotchbrite they're available as discs, flap discs, belts etc

 

[NTwoO]

scotchbrite spindle in a die grinder. Whoop! die grinder is great for prepping alu.

 

[julieanncharters]

I tend to use SCM abrasives, basically scotchbrite they're available as discs, flap discs, belts etc

cheers i've seen these but never tried em ,i'll give em a go
do they make em in a bigger size to do big panels
elfyn

 

[hotrodder]

Don't know but i don't recall coming across any larger than 115mm.

 

[weldequip]

Have you tried these fellas?...



Polishing Flap Discs. Available in 115mm only, but good gear
weldequip

 

[hotrodder]

Yep, AKA SCM flap discs

 

[weldequip]

Crikey...bit pricey!
weldequip

 

[fingers99]

One thing that works really well -- and I'm guessing you want a light cover of oxide off -- is hydrochloric acid: quick dunk, two rinses (one hot, one cold) weld immediately.

For really nasty, been under the sea for 5 years, covered in white oxide, stuff, dunk in caustic soda solution, wash/scrub with water and a stainless steel scourer (ASDA pound section!) and then a quick finish with hydrochloric and the rinses.

 

[julieanncharters]

Have you tried these fellas?...

View attachment 10315

Polishing Flap Discs. Available in 115mm only, but good gear
weldequip

can't see from the photo are these squares of scotchbrite bonded on a disc?
if so look just the job.
how much in bulk?
elfyn

 

[weldequip]

PM sent
weldequip

 

[hotrodder]

Crikey...bit pricey!
weldequip

Too right! Didn't even clock the prices at the time, one of the first hits with decent pics/description from a quick google. IIRC i usually pay mid to high £30s/10 for Dronco's or Abracs polyrico

 

[julieanncharters]

PM sent
weldequip

pm sent
elfyn