How is corrosion from non-clad aluminium alloys removed?

How is corrosion from non-clad aluminium alloys removed?

• A. Wipe with oily cloth
• B. Chemical removal
• C. Prepsol
• D. Mechanical removal

Answer: (D)

Corrosion on non-clad aluminum alloys is removed by mechanical means. Because there is no protective outer cladding to sacrifice, using chemicals to dissolve the corrosion would also attack the base alloy, potentially thinning the metal or altering its properties. Instead, you physically remove the corrosion products and a small amount of surrounding metal with appropriate abrasives or tools until you reach sound metal. Afterward, clean the area and apply a corrosion inhibitor and primer/paint as required. Wiping with an oily cloth only smooths the surface and doesn’t remove corrosion, and chemical removal or solvents like Prepsol are cleaners that can damage non-clad aluminum rather than effectively removing corrosion.

Corrosion on non-clad aluminum alloys is removed by mechanical means. Because there is no protective outer cladding to sacrifice, using chemicals to dissolve the corrosion would also attack the base alloy, potentially thinning the metal or altering its properties. Instead, you physically remove the corrosion products and a small amount of surrounding metal with appropriate abrasives or tools until you reach sound metal. Afterward, clean the area and apply a corrosion inhibitor and primer/paint as required. Wiping with an oily cloth only smooths the surface and doesn’t remove corrosion, and chemical removal or solvents like Prepsol are cleaners that can damage non-clad aluminum rather than effectively removing corrosion.