When the foam becomes an applicator

In the refinishing industry applicators are tools used for polishing of the clearcoat coating. Most frequently these are polishing foams and polishing pads natural and artificial.

Applicators made of natural and artificial wool are often used in the refinishing industry. The natural ones work better as the material is spread within every hair. In case of the artificial ones, it is important to work with polishing compounds which work well with synthetic hair. Basically, the applicator is chosen for a specific polishing compound. Applicators from the same manufacturers are identical. Thanks to it we can be sure that a tested polishing compound will always work well with it. It works differently in case of natural wool. Because hair can slightly vary, a tested polishing compound might work well with one applicator, whereas with the other not so well. Both natural and synthetic wool work as an applicator in the first stage of the polishing process. However, if we have experience and properly select polishing compounds, one applicator can be used in all stages of the polishing when using DA machine with it.

Foams are more popular amongst refinishers and car detailers. Depending on the structure, there are three types of foams – closed, half-open and open-cell. When we blow air in them, we can find out what type they are. How can it be checked? It is easy, open-cell foams do not resist, half-open slightly resist, whereas air will not go through closed-cell ones at all. The advantage of open-cell and half-open foams is that air can go through them and they better conduct heat. In comparison with closed foams, there is a slight risk of overheating. Another advantage of these foams is that the material of abrasive compound is collected in their cells, which is gradually and evenly released when using the applicator. This is why, open and half-open cells are surely better than the closed ones. In case of closed-cell foams it is important to bear in mind that they not only work on the surface. Remember that when using them, less material needs to be applied. Too much of it can simply be spilled. No matter what type of the foam it is, we recommend to apply a little bit of polishing compound on the applicator.

Before starting with a new applicator, remember to impregnate it properly. Using a wooden spoon, ladle out material and spread it on the whole surface. Later, the more the polishing compound is worked out, the less portions will be used. Properly selected polishing compound with a specific applicator gives a maximum effect of work. No matter what type of polishing compound is used, it needs to be worked out on an element. In every stage, you can add the amount of polishing compound needed. However, during finishing, use of water is also permitted, which will help to activate the rest of the polishing compound in the applicator.