Choose coating removal around substrate, geometry, existing finish and the condition needed for recoating. Use the following questions to prepare a project-specific finishing brief.
Start with the metal and coating history
Identify the substrate, heat treatment, old coating and any service contamination before choosing a removal method. Thin aluminum, precision interfaces and heavy steel weldments can respond very differently to an aggressive process.
Provide photos, previous coating information and areas that must retain dimensions or appearance. Suspect hazardous legacy coatings need assessment before processing. A removal quote should define the accepted final surface rather than promise that every method is interchangeable.
Compare process constraints
Mechanical removal can remove corrosion and establish a profile, but abrasive access, distortion risk and dimensional effects need review. Recesses, blind holes and mixed assemblies may limit access.
Chemical stripping may suit some coatings and geometries, subject to chemical compatibility, dwell control, rinsing and waste handling. It does not automatically create the profile required for a new coating. Consult the actual product instructions and processor before selecting a route.
Approve the surface that follows
Specify whether all coating must be removed and how residual contamination, corrosion and inaccessible areas are handled. Agree protection of threads, seals, contacts and precision faces. A representative trial may be appropriate for sensitive parts.
After removal, confirm cleaning, drying, any further preparation and the time before recoating. PPC can review the part and finish history with the intended new coating. Include quantity, dimensions, weight and desired return condition; do not ship a mixed assembly on an assumed stripping process.
Next step
Turn this guidance into a project specification
Send your part details, drawings, coating requirements and production quantities for review.
- ISO 9001:2015 registered
- Technical review before pricing
- Toronto facility, North American service
