Removing plastic coat on aluminum sheets

[tcooke]

So as a part of my rebuild project I have taken on resurfacing the top of the boat in new aluminum. I got a great deal from a local guy, not a supplier or shop, for the 2 sheets that I needed. However, one of the sheets' plastic coating is cracked all over, in order to peel it off I would need an exacto knife and about 20 hours.

My question is what sort of chemical could I use that will melt away the plastic but not harm the aluminum?

Thanks

 

[erikgreen]

Re: Removing plastic coat on aluminum sheets

Depends on the plastic, but I'd say most likely heat and a scraper would be your best bet.

But, why is the aluminum coated? Normally aluminum is just sold bare, as the aluminum oxide coating is quite hard and corrosion resistant.

Post a pic?

Erik

 

[tcooke]

Re: Removing plastic coat on aluminum sheets

The coating is a scratch protective layer to be taken off once delivered or installed. Similar to that that comes on Stainless products. I guess a plastic scraper and a hairdrier should do fine then.

 

[i386]

Re: Removing plastic coat on aluminum sheets

If that's what it is, it should peel off easily.

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: Removing plastic coat on aluminum sheets

sounds like it has been stored in the sun. breaking down the plastic.

 

[i386]

Re: Removing plastic coat on aluminum sheets

sounds like it has been stored in the sun. breaking down the plastic.

Rekon a pressure washer would do it? They're notorious for peeling stuff of that you don't want peeled off. Maybe peel up a corner to get it started and then hit with the water. Might bend it though. Hmm...

 

[seamorewaterVIP]

Re: Removing plastic coat on aluminum sheets

So as a part of my rebuild project I have taken on resurfacing the top of the boat in new aluminum. I got a great deal from a local guy, not a supplier or shop, for the 2 sheets that I needed. However, one of the sheets' plastic coating is cracked all over, in order to peel it off I would need an exacto knife and about 20 hours.

My question is what sort of chemical could I use that will melt away the plastic but not harm the aluminum?

Thanks

Well two words WD-40 Spray it on let it sit a couple of hours and the plastic will start to bubble off Wipe clean and respray if needed.

 

[seamorewaterVIP]

Re: Removing plastic coat on aluminum sheets

sounds like it has been stored in the sun. breaking down the plastic.

heat will only further break down the plastic and reacitvate the glue used to stic the plastic DO NOT SCRAPE!!!!!! it will end up scraching the surface.

 

[ezmobee]

Re: Removing plastic coat on aluminum sheets

Welcome to iboats seamorewaterVIP. This post is well over a year old. Please don't dig up old posts.