Jul 12 2010
Chemical Methods provides laser scale removal chemistry for removing oxide layers formed by laser cutting.
Several OEMs such as Caterpillar, John Deere, and CNH want their suppliers to remove the oxides formed during laser cutting so as to avoid failures in field paint. Many metal forming and cutting shops now increasingly use thermal forming operations including plasma cutting, flame cutting, and laser cutting. These operations result in thin oxide layer formation on the metal. The oxide layer interferes with the paint adhesion as it sticks to the base metal loosely. Hence, any minimal abrasion can cause corrosion.
Mechanical methods such as abrasive blasting, and grinding wheels can be used for removing laser oxides, but are unreliable, ineffective, and expensive. Removing laser oxides by using specialty chemicals delivers better results in terms of profits, product quality, and efficiency.
Business Development Manager of Chemical Methods, Thomas Rogers, said the OEMs have conveyed to the suppliers that the oxide layer is unacceptable because they are getting complaints from the customers.
The VP of Sales and Marketing for Chemical Methods, Tom Fabek, stated that the company is also dealing directly with equipment manufacturers to help them face laser scale challenges in their facilities.
Source: http://www.chemicalmethods.com/