Aluminum composite panels (ACP) which are made of aluminum composite material, today are widely used for covering the exterior or interior decoration of buildings in the form of walls, partitions, and false ceilings. Offering it in the market is increasing day by day and so is the awareness about it essential.
Due to the resistance of aluminum composite to climate change, its application in tropical and humid countries will be efficient.
ACP consists of two layers of aluminum foil in the outer shells and a layer of polyethylene or refractory minerals in the middle. Since it is exposed to climate change such as humidity, heat, and sunlight, the question now arises of using a moral and appropriate method to keep it clean.
Next, we want to answer the vital question of How to Clean Aluminum Composite Material!?
Standard methods for maintaining and cleaning aluminum composites
These methods will help you enhance your aluminum composites’ longevity and beautify the appearance of your building.
The way it is presented in most sites and articles is that the aluminum composite panel should be cleaned using a damp, soft piece of cloth. Water used should be about 20 to 30 degrees and combined with a neutral detergent or minimal amount of soap. The panel surface might be scratched if cleaning with sharp cleaning tools. But this is a particular way, and we are going to go into more detail.
First, check the surface temperature of the metal panel. It is preferably less than 40 degrees Celsius. When this surface temperature exceeds 40 degrees, the reduced humidity should be detrimental to the surface color. Against sub-zero temperatures, there is a possibility of ice formation, which is not suitable for aluminum composite plates.
In general, aluminum composite sheets contain a type of resin that prevents static electricity in the sheet, and as a result, dust is not absorbed into the sheet. If you live in places where the amount of pollution is very high, the composite panel can be cleaned easily with natural cleaners and detergents.
While aluminum Composite They need less care in maintenance, it is recommended to have them cleaned regularly.
The frequency of cleaning and the selection of the appropriate cleaning agent plays a very crucial role. Usually, it should be considered according to the building’s cleaning location and the amount of contamination.
Before any cleaning, wash thoroughly with water from top to bottom. It is also helpful when using a cleanser to apply a physical rub with a soft sponge that is completely soaked in the liquid solution.
Depending on your location and the fact that the cover absorbed a lot of soil and wanted to clean the dirt, use water, and wash the aluminum composites with medium water pressure to clean the ground. If this doesn’t work well, a concurrent water spray with a sponge should be tried.
Even if the soil becomes sticky after rain or snow, a mild detergent or IPA 5-10 solution is needed to fix the problem.
Cleaning detergents are often recommended. In many cases, water alone can not clean the composites’ surface as much as we would like, so when using a mild detergent 5% or 10٪ IPA, you should soak a soft cloth in the solution and then use.
The washing methods used must be done with uniform pressure, i.e., this process must be done first in horizontal movements and then in vertical directions.
Do not forget to avoid dripping and splashing while cleaning and remove the drop as soon as possible. Leaking of detergent into the lower parts of the building should be minimized. Make sure that sponges or cloths are clean to prevent possible scratches on the surface of the composites. Avoid excessive cleaning or excessive rubbing.
After washing with detergent, the surface should be thoroughly rinsed with water and later be air-dried or wiped with a squeegee or lint-free cloth.
Keep in mind that it is not easy to separate the sealant and the machine oil after hardening. During construction, ensure that the protective film is kept 45 days after installation to prevent staining by the glue and the machine oil.
Dos and Don’ts of cleaning aluminum composites
- Do not use strong alkaline detergents, strong acid detergents, and color-soluble detergents.
- Abrasive materials, not consider Composite Panel cleaning.
- Do not use any items that can scrub the painted surface.
- Do not clean in the hottest part of the day or in direct sunlight. This will maximize the drying potential of the solution and, as a result, leads to spotting and scratches.
- On the building’s outer wall, which is usually open and high, vehicles such as hanging baskets, hanging signs, and hoisting platforms are inappropriate and dangerous.
- Before we try to clean a large area, it is best to choose a small testing place. Start the general cleaning after it is confirmed.
Using a DIY Solution to Clean Oxidized Aluminum
To clean aluminum composite, you can use other home methods if you do not have access to detergent. Mix 1 tablespoon white vinegar with 2 cups of warm water in a bucket or use this ratio to make a more massive amount, depending on what you are cleaning.
