Sanding

Sanding

Dry sanding may be carried out by hand or using an electric or pneumatic sander fitted with the specified abrasive paper.

Masking

The areas surrounding the parts to be repaired should be asked with sheets of paper fixed to the surface with adhesive tape.

The importance of this operation should not be underestimated and should be carried out, as with all other operations, by taking all the necessary precautions to prevent repainting parts which are not affected.

Masking should be applied:

• before applying the primer;
• before applying the undercoat;
• before applying the layers of paint.

Application of Primer

The primer is applied to the bare metal surfaces as a protection against corrosion.

Sealing

Sealing is required in order to avoid penetration of water or humidity and is carried out by the application of different products.

Sealants are products that fill, insulate and protect and are applied to the joints between the metal panels.

Sealant should be applied with a brush or suitable spray gun.

Application of Undercoat

The undercoat due to its thickness ensures that the underlying layers are isolated. This intervention eliminates any imperfections of the layer beneath.

The undercoat must be prepared and applied following the indications given in the appropriate painting cycle.

Sanding of Undercoat

Sanding is necessary, given the thickness of the undercoat, in order to eliminate any imperfections or irregularities in the sheet metal.

A spy coat should be applied in order to facilitate identification of any imperfections.

Preparation of the Paints

Consult the manufacturer's technical specifications before mixing the catalyst and thinner in the proportions relative to the preparation of the paint products.

Application of Paints

The required colour may be prepared by mixing the basic colours in the ratio indicated by the applicable colour formula. The enamels obtained in this way do not have the same viscosity values suitable for application and should therefore be mixed with a catalyst and thinned to the proportions indicated by the manufacturer using a rod-scale.

It is extremely important that the enamel is thinned correctly in order to avoid defects (running, pin-holing etc).