Sofema Aviation Services (SAS) www.sassofia.com considers best practices and techniques to ensure the correct maintenance of Metal finish within the cabin.
Introduction
Aircraft cabins are subject to varying conditions, including changes in humidity and temperature. These conditions can lead to the corrosion of metal components.
Metal finish polishing in aircraft cabins is not just about maintaining a shiny appearance. It plays an important role in extending the life of metal components. Polished metal surfaces look clean and enhances the overall appearance of the aircraft interior.
Regular polishing can remove minor surface oxidation and contaminants that can lead to corrosion.
By keeping metal surfaces clean and polished, the lifespan of these components can be extended, polishing provides a protective layer, reducing the risk of corrosion and ensuring the longevity of the metal parts.
Cleaning the Metal Surface
Cleaning removes contaminants that can cause corrosion or other damage. It also prepares the surface for further treatments, such as polishing or painting.
- Solvent Cleaning involves using solvents to remove oils, grease, and other contaminants. Always choose solvents that are safe for the specific metal and coatings.
- Alkaline Cleaning is useful for removing organic contaminants. However, it’s essential to ensure that the alkaline solution doesn’t harm the metal.
- Abrasive Cleaning uses abrasive materials to clean the surface. It’s essential to choose the right abrasive to avoid damaging the metal.
- Ultrasonic Cleaning: Uses ultrasonic waves in a cleaning solution to remove contaminants.
Basic Polishing Techniques
Polishing enhances the appearance of the metal surface and can also provide a smoother surface, which can be beneficial for aerodynamic reasons.
- Manual Polishing: This involves using polishing cloths or pads combined with a polishing compound. It’s labor-intensive but can be very effective for small areas or specific repairs.
- Machine Polishing: Uses a polishing machine or rotary tool combined with a polishing compound. It’s essential to choose the right pad and compound for the specific metal.
- Always polish in the direction of the grain of the metal to avoid introducing scratches.
- Start with a gentle approach. If you’re unsure about the abrasive nature of a polish, test it on a small, inconspicuous area first.
- Ensure that the metal is clean before polishing to avoid grinding contaminants into the surface.
Protective Coatings: After polishing, it’s often a good idea to apply a protective coating to the metal. This can help prevent corrosion and maintain the polished look for a longer time.
Types of Metal Found in the Aircraft Cabin and Polishing Techniques
- Aluminum is one of the most common metals used in aircraft construction due to its lightweight and high strength-to-weight ratio. In the cabin, aluminum can be found in seat frames, overhead bins, and various structural components.
o Clean the surface with a mild detergent and water to remove any dirt or contaminants.
o Use a soft cloth or sponge to apply a specialized aluminum polish in a circular motion.
o Buff the surface with a clean cloth until you achieve the desired shine.
o For deeper scratches or oxidation, you can use a fine-grit sandpaper (1000 to 1500 grit) before polishing.
o Seal the polished aluminum with a protective coating to prevent oxidation.
o Avoid using abrasive materials that can scratch the aluminum.
o Always test a small, inconspicuous area first.
- Stainless Steel is often used in areas that require additional strength or resistance to corrosion. You might find stainless steel in galley components, seatbelt buckles, and some fixtures.
o Clean the surface with a mixture of warm water and a few drops of mild detergent.
o Apply a stainless steel polish or cleaner with a soft cloth, following the grain of the metal.
o Buff with a clean cloth until shiny.
o For deeper scratches, you can use a non-abrasive pad or fine-grit sandpaper.
o Cautions:
o Avoid using chlorine-based cleaners or abrasive materials.
o Always rub in the direction of the grain to avoid scratching.
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- Titanium is known for its high strength and low weight. It’s more expensive than aluminum, so its use might be limited to specific components where its properties are especially beneficial.
o Clean the titanium surface with a soft cloth and a mild detergent solution.
o Use a titanium-specific polish or a metal polish that’s safe for titanium.
o Apply the polish with a soft cloth in a circular motion.
o Buff with a clean cloth until you achieve the desired shine.
o Titanium can be scratched, so avoid using abrasive materials.
o Always test a small area first.
- Brass and Bronze is less common but might be found in decorative elements, fixtures, or certain hardware components.
o Clean the surface with soapy water to remove dirt and grease.
o Apply a brass or bronze polish with a soft cloth in a circular motion.
o Buff with a clean cloth until shiny.
o To maintain the shine, you can apply a clear protective coating.
o Brass and bronze can tarnish, so store in a dry place.
o Avoid abrasive materials that can scratch the surface.
- Magnesium Alloys are lightweight and have been used in some aircraft seat frames and other components. (The use is limited due to concerns about flammability)
o Clean the surface with a mild detergent solution.
o Use a magnesium alloy polish or a metal polish that’s safe for magnesium.
o Apply the polish with a soft cloth in a circular motion.
o Buff with a clean cloth until shiny.
o Magnesium is flammable when in fine powder form, so avoid creating dust or shavings.
o Avoid using water unless necessary, as magnesium can corrode.
o Always store magnesium components in a dry place.
Health & Safety Considerations related to Metal Polishing
- Chemical Exposure due to polishing compounds and solvents which can contain chemicals that may be harmful if inhaled, ingested, or come into contact with the skin.
- Caution regarding fume Inhalation due to fumes that may be harmful if inhaled.
- Wear safety goggles to protect against flying debris and splashes.
- Use gloves resistant to the chemicals in the polishing compounds.
- Wear a mask or respirator suitable for the type of fumes or dust generated.
- Use ear protection if the noise level is high.
- Ensure adequate ventilation in the cabin to disperse harmful fumes. This might mean using fans or opening doors and windows.
Next Steps
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Manual Polishing, abrasive materials, titanium, coating, stainless steel, oxidation, structural components, detergent, seat frames, SAS blogs, Basic Polishing Techniques, alkaline, solvent, polishing, metal finish, aluminum surfaces, Aircraft Cleaning, Aircraft Cabin
