Aluminum Surface Preparation Guide

This guide outlines the correct preparation and coating systems for aluminum substrates using Awlgrip yacht coating systems.

Select Your Aluminum Scenario

Standard aluminum surfaces where no filler or fairing compounds are required.

Aluminum surfaces requiring filler or fairing compounds for leveling.

Anodized aluminum surfaces requiring special preparation.

This system is used when aluminum substrates do not require filler or fairing compounds.

Step	Description
Clean	Thoroughly clean using detergent, steam cleaner, or pressure washer.
Degrease	Wipe down using Awlgrip cleaning solvent.
Sand	P180 – P220 sanding to create mechanical adhesion profile.
Dust Removal	Vacuum debris and blow off with clean compressed air.
Prime	Prime with approved substrate primer within 8 hours.

System 1 – Hullgard Extra → High Build Primer → 545 Epoxy Primer → Awlgrip Topcoat
System 2 – Max Cor CF + Hullgard Extra → High Build Primer → 545 Epoxy Primer
System 3 – Wash Primer CF → 545 Epoxy Primer
System 4 – Quick Build Sealer → Awlgrip Topcoat
System 5 – 545 Epoxy Primer → Awlgrip Topcoat

Used when aluminum surfaces require fairing compounds to correct imperfections or level the substrate.

Preparation Method	Description
Blasting	Aluminum oxide blast media producing 50-75 micron (2-3 mil) surface profile.
Grinding	P36-P60 grit power disc to expose bright aluminum.

System 6
Max Cor CF + Hullgard Extra → Fairing Compound → High Build Primer → 545 Epoxy Primer → Awlgrip Topcoat

Anodized aluminum requires special preparation. Fairing compounds must not be applied to anodized surfaces.

Surface	Preparation
Parts	Sand P80 – P120.
Architectural Aluminum	Break through anodized coating to create mechanical adhesion.

Important: Aluminum begins oxidizing immediately after preparation. Apply primer within 8 hours of blasting, grinding, or sanding.