Cleaning Question

Question:

We manufacture dump bodies for trucks and are looking for suggestions on cleaning them prior to priming and painting. Currently we are using “Metal Surface Cleaner” by our supplier, which we apply by hand and then remove by hand. This is a very labor-intensive application, especially on some of our larger bodies and would appreciate any suggestions as to more effectively clean the bodies prior to primer application. The majority of our bodies are primed with a fast drying enamel primer. 

Answer:

I would first ask your supplier for help. Knowing your process better, they may be able to suggest an alternate application method for their product or a different product altogether.

The first alternative process that came to mind from your description was a one-stage phosphate that can be spray applied. These can be done with a spray wand, similar to what you might do in a do-it-yourself carwash. The disadvantage to this process is capital investment. In addition to the mobile spray washer (you could probably get from most industrial catalogs), you would have to construct a booth to collect and hold overspray from the process. Judging from the amount of time and the inherent variability with the handwiping process you are currently doing, it sounds like it may be a worthwhile investment.