Polishing is a type of surface treatment that can be applied to aluminum and aluminum alloys. Here are steps to clean and polish aluminum.
1) Clean the aluminum: Before polishing, clean the aluminum using mild detergent and warm water. If the aluminum is heavily soiled or greasy, you may need to use a degreaser or a solvent to remove the grime. Rinse thoroughly with water and let it dry.
2) Sand the aluminum: If the aluminum has scratches, pits, or other imperfections, it may be necessary to sand it before polishing. Use sandpaper starting with a coarse grit such as 220 and working up to a finer grit such as 600, until the surface is smooth and free from any scratches or imperfections.
3) Apply a polishing compound: Apply a small amount of aluminum polishing compound to a soft cloth or buffing wheel. Use circular motions to apply the compound evenly to the surface of the aluminum.
4) Polish the aluminum: Use a soft cloth or buffing wheel to polish the aluminum, applying light pressure and moving in a circular motion. Continue polishing until the desired level of shine is achieved.
5) Remove residue: After polishing, wipe off any excess polishing compound or residue using a clean cloth.
6) Apply a protective coating: To protect the polished aluminum from further oxidation or corrosion, apply a protective coating or sealant. This can be a wax, clear coat, or other protective coating designed for use on aluminum surfaces.
How do you seal aluminum after polishing?
After polishing aluminum, it is important to apply a protective coating or sealant to prevent the polished surface from oxidizing or tarnishing. Here are some steps to follow to seal aluminum after polishing:
1) Make sure that the surface of the aluminum is clean and free from dirt, dust, or other contaminants. Use a mild detergent and water to clean the surface, and rinse thoroughly.
2) There are several types of sealants that can be used to protect polished aluminum, including waxes, clear coats, and protective coatings designed specifically for aluminum surfaces. Choose a sealant that is appropriate for the specific application and environment.
3) Apply the sealant to the surface of the aluminum using a soft cloth or applicator, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Make sure to apply the sealant evenly and in a thin layer to avoid any drips or pooling.
4) Allow the sealant to dry completely before handling or using the aluminum. This can take anywhere from a few minutes to several hours, depending on the type of sealant used.
5) Once the sealant has dried, use a soft cloth to buff the surface of the aluminum to a high shine. This will help to remove any residue and bring out the full luster of the polished aluminum.