"Acid shower"

[Ufling]

I have read that some aluminum boatbuilding companies give their boats an acid shower to remove all of the smoke and unsightly residue left during the welding process. Does any one know the acid solution?
Thanks!
Uffe "Ufling" Nielsen

[mark775]

Probably alumabrite (a brand) Look at how the boat looks ON SOMEBODY ELSE"S BOAT before doing this. Any acid will brighten aluminum (not make it shinier - brighten.) good luck

[gonzo]

There are different acid solutions for aluminum. They all etch it by taking the oxidation off. I don't thing that the smoke or slag will come off with acid easily. That means that the aluminum will be corroded before it gets cleaned. A low PH detergent cleaner may work better.