We put a sheet of 4x8' 1/8" 5052h3 alum. with PVC on both sides in our jet then cut a few logos out for wall sign. About 15 min later the jet was done and we removed the sheet only to notice all the edges cut had a stain about 3/4" to 1" bordering the edge. Kinda a yellow to brown and it followed the edge of the PVC coating that had lifted. First, I don't know what caused it? Was it the iron in the tank from steel cuts that left metal dust/rust in the water? Was it the garnet staing it from being under the lifted PVC coating? Was it the black underside of the PVC coating leaving residue. Second, how can I removed it or clean it? I know I can get it line grained but the customer requested mill finish. Any suggestions?.?? please help

What about sand blasting, or chemical eatching.

What about sand blasting, or chemical eatching.

i cut .5 thick alum and never had a stain at all it might of had something to do with melting the pvc into the alum with the abrasive cause garnet alone shouldn't stain at all

we needed a mirror finish, sand blastin not an option. chem etch was to inconcistant on the depth of etch.





i think the stain came from the black side of the PVC coating.



not sure how to avoid this