All about aircraft cleaning

Aircraft cleaning is a time consuming but very essential task. Not only for aesthetic reasons but aircraft washing is also done to minimize the effects of corrosion that occur when the aircraft is in motion. Use of airplane cleaning supplies helps one to see through windows clearly, reduces chances of slippage occurring due to oil and exhausts fouling and also gives an opportunity for thorough inspection of the aircraft for impact damage, degradation to seals and plastic components, loose fittings and fastenings.

Airplane cleaning should never be done by pressure washers as it damages the aircraft, penetrates seals, increases paint loss and loosens adhesive bonds on the aircraft. Never use a solvent based aircraft cleaning product as it causes a lot of damage in the long run.

Specifically designed aircraft cleaning products should be used for aviation cleaning. RV cleaners which are also suitable for airplane washing can be used. If they are not suitable, they can cause corrosion and degradation of the aircraft. Airplane cleaning products do not damage electrical wires. They do not damage seals or the aircraft substrate. Waterless aircraft wash is the best way to clean the aircraft.

Once you have the required aviation cleaners, you can proceed for aviation wash. Clean the loose material and dust on the surface of the airplane. Next, dilute a small quantity of airplane cleaner according to the manufacturer’s recommendation. With this, wash all dirty areas of the aircraft including brakes and wheels, exhaust trails, oil streaks and deposits around static wicks.

Use of sponges or soft brushes used in RV cleaning can be used here to apply the solution on the aircraft. They save a lot of bending and stretching, not to mention keeping you away from the droplets of dirty water too. After you are done with this, dilute the airplane cleaner further and then use it to clean the entire framework of the aircraft. This can be done with a sponge, broom or a rag. Good airplane cleaning products require less amount of physical effort to be put into cleaning. If the product does not require this physical work, then it is too harsh for your purpose. Once the application of the airplane cleaning product is done, it is important to immediately rinse away the solution so that spots do not remain on the airplane surface. If need be, you can also use chamois leather to clean the surface to get the spotless look for the aircraft.

Aircraft waxing should be done by a suitable aircraft wax. A good aircraft wax will give that extra shine to the aircraft while at the same time it will not build up a layer on the airplane which causes marks and blemishes to occur and increase the effort required in future cleaning. Do not use products with solvents or hydrocarbons in it as they damage the plastic on the aircraft. If the product is not good for use on plastic and windows, it can leave a film on them which can obscure vision.

Invest money in good quality airplane cleaning supplies as they not only extend the life of the aircraft but consequently save the life of the passengers and pilots.

About the Author:

WashWax is author of this article on Aircraft Cleaning. Find more information about Aircraft Washing here.