Wet sanding technique to save time, reduce hazards Published July 29, 2011 By Faye Banks-Anderson 78 ABW/PA ROBINS AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. -- Instead of recreating the wheel, Mario Largaespada thought it would be better to borrow from it. In his previous career in the fiberglass industry, Largaespada, 573rd Commodities Maintenance Squadron paint shop supervisor, saw mechanics using wet sanding techniques that could be used here. "I thought, 'Why create another dust hazard?'" said Largaespada, who is teaming with Ben Hatcher and Ray Minter to implement the new process. "It's not high-tech," said Hatcher, production engineer. "We're just adding one more layer of contamination control to one of the ways paint is removed from airplane parts." Minter, depaint supervisor, explained that the current process requires dabbing the aircraft area with chemicals to remove excess paint not removed during normal depainting. However, by using water and a sander, the new process can help reduce the use of methylene chloride. If the wet sanding process is approved for use on aircraft parts, other potential exposures could be eliminated, helping more workers in the future. Other advantages include a better product and minimal wet sanding time needed. One employee in his area who has already worked the process was quite impressed, said Minter. He couldn't believe how much quicker his task was and the significant dust reduction. "We're looking for the safest, best way to do our jobs," said Largaespada.