Cleaning and Corrosion Control for Aircraft

One of the best ways to make sure that your aircraft is in tiptop shape is thorough maintenance. Aircraft maintenance involves not only checking the status of mechanical and electrical components but also cleaning and corrosion control. These important maintenance tasks are vital to the longevity of the aircraft. As if corrosion is left untreated, it can develop into a problem that renders the aircraft inoperable and major safety risk.

Corrosion removal usually involves five steps. First is cleaning and stripping of the corroded area. This means that the area needs to be clear of grease, oil, dirt, and preservatives. This step also involves assessing the damage caused by corrosion. Corrosion can spread to an entire panel if not properly treated, grounding the aircraft indefinitely due to safety concerns. The second step is to remove as much of the corrosion as possible. When choosing a cleaning material or product, it’s important to base it on how bad the damage is. Most products are water-based and non-toxic, but if this isn’t enough much to deal with your corrosion problem, stronger corrosion fighting materials can be used. The third step is to neutralize the materials used to fight the corrosion. Like previously mentioned, it’s vital to remove all debris from the aircraft. Cleaning materials, if left too long, are just as able to cause damage and worse the corrosion. The fourth step is to re-administer aircraft protective films. These films will protect from potential corrosion in the future. The fifth and final step is to reapply any temporary or permanent coatings or paint finishes. This will also provide a final protective barrier for the aircraft structure that.

As you embark on any attempt to clean your aircraft, make sure that you consult your aircraft’s manufacturer manual first. The manual will list the recommended products and tell you how to go about cleaning your aircraft, and what to look out for.

Cogent Purchasing, owned and operated by ASAP Semiconductor, should always be your first and only stop for all your corrosion defense materials and equipment. Cogent Purchasing is a premier supplier of military and civilian GSE, whether new or obsolete. Cogent Purchasing is always available and ready to help, 24/7x365. If you’re interested in a quote, email us at sales@cogentpurchasing.com or call us at +1-914-359-2001.