Friday, May 6, 2011

Detailing: Minimizing Swirl Marks

Minimizing Swirl Marks
1)      Minimize swirl by maintaining clean buffing pads. Use a cleaning spur on wool pads frequently, wash and air dry occasionally.
2)      Soak foam pads in warm water and ring dry. Never put in dryer.
3)      Cross contamination is another leading cause of swirl. Keep compound pads separate from polishing and finishing pads.
4)      Match the right buffing pad to the right polishing material. We know not all paint surfaces are the same, save time by spot buffing a small area then check results. We have many pad compositions, start with the least aggressive and work up as needed. Utilize this same principle when selecting the compound or polish.
5)      Lower RPM’s means less friction, less friction means less heat buildup. Try to stay between 1750-2400 RPM when compounding and between 1200-1750 RPM when finishing.
6)      After using compound wash the treated area with soap and water to eliminate excess compound grit.  When finishing with a polish or glaze, don’t buff dry. Leave a little material on the car, without it you create friction. A final hand or orbital wax will clean up any polish residue. A quality product such as Wizards Polishing Products will minimize swirl marks.

Remember to check out our website for more automotive body shop supplies and paint.  66 Auto Color

No comments: