Chris Dudeck, automotive area manager at BBA Nonwovens, developed the following list of dirt management guidelines. Following these techniques, he said, will improve quality and add value to your bottom line.

1. Dirt In = Dirt Out
Dirt put into the system will produce dirt out of the system, affecting the finished product.

2. Dirt Management Begins with You
Follow all paint room procedures: wear your paint suit and do not wear crater-causing agents.

3. Try to Use Moist Sanding
Moist sanding keeps aireborne contaminants contained in that area. Dry sanding creates more airborne particulate.

4. Silicone is a No-No
The presence of silicone can create surface-coating adhesion problems. Never use products processed with any type of silicone in any surface preparation operation.

5. Finish Wiping “Off” the Surface
Always finish any wiping operation off the surface to decrease smearing, marring and wiping blemishes.

6. Wipe with the Features
Wiping with the feature lines assures consistent wiping and hand-pressures throughout the operation. This creates a more evenly prepared surface.

7. Don't Cross-Contaminate
If you think you have a contaminant on your wiper, turn it over, reverse it inside-out or grab a new one. Don't cross contaminate.

8. Tack It, Wet Wipe and Finesse It, Repeat If Necessary
Proper surface care after sanding includes tacking it off to pick up gross particulate, wet-wiping it with a pre-moistened IPA wipe to pick up fine particulate, then finessing it to complete the operation.

9. Maintain Proper Humidity Control
Maintaining proper humidity control can help in many areas. Consistent humidity eliminates this environmental issue as a potential cause in quality investigations. Proper humidity level depends upon your region of the country.

10. Control Static
Controlling static is always important when minimizing air-borne particulate. Static electricity can create an environment where normal particulate matter may not release from the prepared surface.

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