Best starting parameters for paint removal on aircraft aluminum?
We're starting our first round of laser cleaning on a Cessna 414 belly. What starting parameters do you usually run for paint removal on 2024-T3 / Alclad aluminum with the FP-300? Trying to avoid surprises before I touch the airframe.
White Paint on 2024-T3 Alclad — FP-300 Starting Parameters
For your Cessna 414 belly, use this parameter set validated for white glossy enamel on Alclad: [3][5]
| Parameter | Setting |
|---|---|
| Power | 260W (87%) |
| Frequency | 45 kHz |
| Pulse Duration | 175 ns |
| Scan Pattern | Petal |
| Scan Speed | 275 mm/s |
| Passes | 3 |
| Temperature Limit | 120°C |
Critical Limits for Alclad
Do not exceed: [6]
- Max Fluence: 20 J/cm² (cladding preservation)
- Max Power: 240W steady-state (your 260W starting point is within acceptable range for pulsed operation at 175 ns)
- Max Temperature: 120°C (monitor continuously with IR)
- Visual stop point: Satin finish — stop before achieving mirror polish [6]
The Alclad cladding is 25–75 µm thick; laser penetration beyond that reaches the 2024 core. [6]
Pre-Job Checklist
- IR thermometer ready to monitor substrate temperature
- Fume extraction running (99.95% HEPA + activated carbon) [5]
- Measure panel thickness before starting (establish baseline)
- Laser safety goggles (OD 6+ at 1064 nm) and respirator on operator [5]
- Document tail number, panel station, and date [5]
Expected Outcome
After 3 passes at these settings:
- White topcoat and primer completely removed
- Substrate appears dull grey (not shiny) [1]
- No visible melting or pitting
- Temperature stays under 120°C
Post-job apply conversion coating (Alodine) within 8 hours. [5]
If substrate temperature exceeds 120°C, melting appears, or mirror finish emerges → stop immediately. [3] Reduce power by 10% and increase scan speed, then resume.
Need to log actual parameters used and post-cleaning thickness? Contact jamie@aviationlaser.com or (479) 588-1200 for documentation templates.
Sources
[1] FP-300 Laser Cleaning Guide
[2] FP-300 Laser Cleaning Guide
[3] FP-300 Laser Cleaning Guide
[4] FP-300 Laser Cleaning Guide
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