TechnicianVision · Knowledge base
Ceramic Coatings Considerations
I-CAR · October 24, 2023
Summary
This article outlines the identification, removal, and refinishing considerations for vehicles with ceramic coatings. It emphasizes that ceramic coatings must be completely removed via mechanical abrasion (such as compounding with a wool pad) prior to paint preparation to prevent paint defects, adhesion failure, and PDR glue-pulling issues.
What to do on the job
Identify ceramic coatings early and completely remove them using mechanical abrasion (compounding with a wool pad or sanding with P600-P800) before refinishing, verifying removal by checking that solvent or water-based cleaners no longer bead on the surface.
How to use it
Use this document to justify the additional labor and material costs required for ceramic coating removal during the refinishing or PDR process. It provides direct quotes from major paint makers (PPG, Axalta, AkzoNobel, BASF, Sherwin-Williams) and the DEG confirming that failure to remove these coatings leads to paint defects, and that standard solvents or nylon scuff pads are insufficient for removal.
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