Underbody Coating

UNDERBODY-COATING:

The underbody coating for a car is done to protect the underbody of the car from dust,mud,water and all other eroding substances.It is the process of spraying paint like substance in the underbody of a car.It is of 2-3 mm thick.

The exhaust and fuel system pipes are in under carriage of car so it is essential to protect it.

The main purpose of undercoating is to check rust especially in the body components like frame rails along with other exposed metal parts. Ex: 3M carcare is a company for doing underbody coating.

TYPES OF UNDERBODY COATING:

The underbody coating is classified based on type of material used for coating.

1. Rubberized underbody coating: This is generally thought of as the best underbody coating for your car. It preserves the underbody well, protecting it from scratches. Applying this to the undercarriage is not much of a hassle either.
2. Wax based underbody coating: This – more or less – ephemeral undercoating will wear away in a few months’ time. On the upside, wax-based undercoating puts up a big fight against moisture. It is also the most affordable option out there.
3. Asphalt based underbody coating: Best suited for lorries, trucks and large vehicles this provides a greater degree of protection compared to rubber-based coatings. However, asphalt-based coatings contain little amounts of rubber for sound-insulation purposes. The process of applying this coating is a bit time-consuming though.
4. Polyurethane underbody coating: This coating closes up splits and fractures on the underbody of the vehicle. It offers up good protection against corrosion and also bonds with the metal. Unlike in the case of asphalt-based coating, you can paint over the polyurethane coating.

UNDERBODY COATING PROCESS:

Step 1: Remove all debris and contaminants from the chassis to start with the undercoating process.Cleaning the underbody using,

• Degreaser
• Grinding
• Sanding

Step 2: Applying priming,Primers serve as a basecoat.The recommended primers usually contain a high level of zinc. Zinc helps in reducing rusting, even if the protective layer is penetrated.

Step 3: Applying undercoating,The undercoating sprays are similar to bed liners. Most products are applied in two steps as dual layers. The first layer should be thin, covering the entire surface.After this layer has been dried, you can apply the second coat generously

ADVANTAGES OF UNDERBODY COATING:

• Prevents rust formation.
• prolonged life's car
• It acts as a sound insulator.

DISADVANTAGES OF UNDERBODY COATING:

• It costs high.
• Care must be taken while applying the coating or else it will damage the car parts.

IMAGES OF UNDERBODY COATING:

The underbody coating is sprayed as shown in the below image.

The below image shows the comparision between non coated and coated underbody in a car.

The below image shows the comparision between non coated and coated underbody in a truck.