Checklist for aluminum repair
How to avoid contamination, corrosion, and fire hazard in aluminium work
Use this checklist each time repairs or welding work is to be done in aluminium, so contamination from steel, fire hazard from grinding dust and galvanic corrosion are avoided.
§Before the work
- 01Confirm material type from manufacturer's data — aluminium, steel or a combination.
- 02Get dedicated aluminum tools and abrasives that have not been used on steel.
- 03Physically separate the work area from ongoing steel work where possible.
§During the work.
- 01Use extraction rated for combustible metal dust.
- 02Avoid open flame or sparks from steel grinding nearby.
- 03Clean the surface for oxide layer immediately before welding or gluing.
- 04Empty dust collection regularly during work.
§After work
- 01Remove all aluminium dust from work area and tools.
- 02Use stainless steel A4 fasteners at joints against other metals (ref. EN 1999-1-1).
- 03Document material choice and joining method in the case.
| Risk | Precaution |
|---|---|
| Galvanic corrosion | Separate tools + A4 fasteners at metal transitions |
| Fire/explosion from dust | Suitable extraction + emptying dust collector. |
| Poor welding due to oxidation layer. | Mechanical cleaning immediately before welding |