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EFFECTIVITY:
C I R R U S
A I R P L A N E M A I N T E N A N C E M A N U A L
M O D E L S R 2 0
15 Jun 2010
C. Repair Preparation
(1)
Surface Protection Removal
This procedure is used only is to remove the paint, primer, and filler partially or completely to the
underlying composite necessary for damage assessment or cosmetic repair. Refer to Procedure
- Repair Surface Preparation for abrasion steps necessary for lamination repair.
CAUTION:
Do not use chemical strippers to remove surface protection. Chemical strippers
may leave a residue and breakdown the epoxy resin.
(a)
Acquire necessary tools, equipment, and supplies.
(b)
Solvent clean repair area.
(c)
Remove surface protection by abrasion.
CAUTION:
If Expanded Metal Mesh (EMM) is encountered when removing surface pro-
tection, use care not to sand EMM after it becomes shiny. The EMM is very
thin and can easily be sanded through.
1
For paint removal only, lightly sand surface with emery cloth until the layer of primer
is exposed.
2
For primer and paint removal, sand surface until the laminate is exposed. For hand
sanding, use 120- 240 grade emery cloth. If sanding with orbital sander, use 80-120
grade aluminum oxide paper.
(2)
Damage Removal
The strength of a composite repair relies upon the integrity of the undamaged and uncontami-
nated supporting material. It is importance that repair surface preparation is carried out to a high
standard to ensure good repair integrity. All damaged structure and other contaminants must be
removed from the composite laminate before repair the can be started.
Glass fiber composites can be removed by hand or through the use of various rotary tools. To
maintain tool life, carbide or diamond cutting edges are recommended.
(a)
Acquire necessary tools, equipment, and supplies.
Description
P/N or Spec.
Supplier
Purpose
Vacuum
-
Any Source
Cleaning.
Sanding Pad
-
Any Source
Abrasion.
Emery Cloth
(paint removal only)
120- 240 grade Any Source
Abrasion.
Aluminum Oxide Paper
(primer and filler removal)
80-120 grade
Any Source
Abrasion.
Description
P/N or Spec.
Supplier
Purpose
Paint Brush
-
Any Source
Cleaning.
Vacuum
-
Any Source
Cleaning.
Utility Knife
-
Any Source
Damage removal.
Rotary Tool
-
Any Source
Damage removal.