"Aluminized" airframes?

[aviweld]

I was told years ago that the Piper airframes that are sometimes called "aluminized" were actually cadmium plated. Anyone that has worked on a few Pipers has probably seen one. Mostly ag models and maybe an option for standard models. Tailfeathers got the treatment also. Looks like a galvanized coating. Must be removed for welding, usually sandblasted or scotchbrited off, but can be removed with nitric acid(be careful! will also eat the steel and your hide). So my question is does anyone know for sure what the coating is? I figured the resources on this forum are the best place to ask.

 

[mike mcs repair]

it's sprayed on aluminum

 

[CUBBLDR]

Yep, Flame sprayed Aluminum. An effective corrosion inhibitor if it is a continuous surface. Link to Flame Spray Mfg.

http://www.sulzermetco.com/en/desktopdefault.aspx/tabid-4021/7681_read-17365/

Jim

 

[cubunltd]

Stay away from it. With all the new modern epoxy primers etc available today it's a waste of time and money. It's old technology. I've had experiences working with it for repairs....Pain in the a--.

John

 

[bob turner]

Yeah - what happens if you have to weld something? Same with powder coating . . .

 

[mike mcs repair]

Yeah - what happens if you have to weld something? Same with powder coating . . .

you spend 20 seconds cleaning the area.... pain but not to bad...

 

[T.J.]

Much better than the new paints/sealers etc. Rust will not creep under the coating at all the bolt attach points that you have to ream to get the bolt to fit into.
My 1952 Pacer is aluminized. I know of one other PA-18 also. They will not rust. It was a factory option from Piper.
To weld, heat with torch and brush off aluminum with a stainless brush. As Mike says, no big deal.
I recommend them.