Recovery of the paint coating of the car is a process that requires not only skill, but also the right materials. In the market of autochemistry products of the company 3M It has long established itself as a standard of quality, but the variety of lines can baffle even an experienced childser. Abrasive paste It is a key element in the polishing chain, as it removes the microscopic layer of lacquer, eliminating defects.
The wrong choice of means can lead to the appearance of holograms, insufficient shine or, conversely, to excessive varnish removal. In this article, we will discuss in detail the main series, technologies and nuances that will help you make the right decision.
Modern production technologies allow you to create compositions that work faster and more efficiently than old analogues. It is important to understand the difference between abrasiveness And finishing the finish so as not to do extra work.
Classification of polishing pastes 3M by abrasiveness
The first thing to decide before buying is the degree of abrasiveness required for your case. The pastes are divided into rough, medium and finishing, and each of them performs its function in the recovery process of the LCP. Rough compositions are designed to remove deep scratches, shaking after painting and serious scuffling.
Medium pastes are used to remove traces from the previous, rougher treatment, as well as to work with oxidized varnish. Finish polishes do not contain large abrasive and serve to create a mirror shine and hologram-resistant coating.
- 🔴 Coarse pastes (Cut) – for the primary processing and removal of deep defects.
- 🟡 Medium pastes (Polish) - for the intermediate stage and removal of micro scratches.
- 🟢 Finish pastes – to give depth of color and gloss.
- 🔵 One Step is a compromise between speed and quality.
Using too aggressive paste where you can do soft, will lead to unnecessary removal of the varnish. Conversely, applying a finish on deep scratches would be a waste of time and material.
⚠️ Always start with the least aggressive pasta. If the result is not achieved, move to a more abrasive, but remember that each stage of rough polishing requires subsequent overpoiling with a softer composition.
Perfect-It III Series: Water-Based Classics
Linea Perfect-It III It is one of the most popular among professionals due to its predictability and ease of work. These pastes are water-based, which makes it easier to remove them from the surface and reduces the risk of clogging pores of the polishing circle. The basic technological principle here is the controlled destruction of the abrasive.
In the process of operation, the particles of abrasive are crushed, moving from a large fraction to a small one, which allows one composition to perform two stages of work. However, for the ideal result, a two-step polishing is often required. The key product here is paste with labeling Fast Cut PlusIt combines high cutting ability with a good finish.
The feature of the series is low dust and the ability to work in large areas without drying out. This makes it ideal for larger cars or when operating in environments where there is no way to wipe the panel frequently.
To consolidate the result after abrasive paste of the series III often use an anti-hologram composition, which removes residual risks. It is important to choose the correct turns of the polishing machine so as not to overheat the varnish.
The Secret to Working with Perfect-It III Pastas
When working with water-based pastes, it is important not to let them dry completely on the surface. As soon as the paste begins to lose oiliness and turn into dust, it must be removed immediately, otherwise the effectiveness decreases and the risk of scratching increases.
Cubitron II technology: a revolution in polishing
Series Cubitron II It is the latest generation of polishing materials using synthetic triangular-shaped minerals. These particles work like blades, cutting the varnish rather than rubbing it like traditional aluminum oxide. It provides speedless work and no heating of the surface.
The main advantage of the technology is the complete absence of silicone in the composition. This is critical if a ceramic coating or liquid glass is planned to be applied after polishing, since silicone can disrupt the adhesion of the protective layer. The pastes in this series are 50% faster and last longer.
Despite its high efficiency, the work with Cubitron II It requires a certain skill. The paste works very quickly, and it is important not to overstretch the machine in one place, so as not to wipe the varnish to the ground.
- ⚡ High cutting speed without heating the surface.
- 💎 Synthetic abrasive grains of triangular shape.
- 🚫 Complete absence of silicone and oils in the composition.
- ✨ The perfect finish is right after the first step.
The cost of Cubitron II materials is higher than that of the classic series, but the consumption is much lower. One package is often enough for several cars, which in terms of the cost of work makes their use economically viable.
When using Cubitron II pastes, apply the minimum amount of product per circle. Excess paste only reduces the efficiency of triangular particles and creates excess dust.
Comparative table of popular pastas 3M
To make the choice easier, let’s compare the main characteristics of popular products in a convenient format. This will help you quickly navigate the range and choose the best option for a specific task.
| Paste model | Type abrasive | Principal appointment | Silicone content |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3M Perfect-It 05990 | aluminum oxide | Deep cutting, shaking. | No. |
| 3M Perfect-It 05991 | aluminum oxide | Universal (One Step) | No. |
| 3M Perfect-It 05996 | aluminum oxide | Finish, anti-hologram. | No. |
| 3M Cubitron II 50383 | Synthetics | Fast cutting + finish | No. |
| 3M Finesse-It II | Microabrasive | Finishing polish | There is. |
As you can see from the table, most modern professional pastes do not contain silicone, which is the industry standard. However, older series or specific finishes may have additives to facilitate application.
The choice between aluminum oxide and synthetics often comes down to the master's preferences and the state of the varnish. For very hard varnishes, synthetics are often more effective.
Selection of polishing circles and equipment
The effectiveness of polishing paste is 50% dependent on the correct circle. The use of a foam circle with abrasive paste of rough grinding may not give a result, and the use of a wool circle with a finish is guaranteed to create holograms. Rigour of the circle It should be consistent with the abrasiveness of the paste.
For the series pasta Perfect-It III and Cubitron II Perfectly suited branded 3M circles with color marking. Orange and white circles are for cutting, black and blue for finishing. It is important to clean the circles regularly during the process, using a special knife or brush to remove the compressed varnish.
☑️ Checking polish readiness
Equipment also plays a role: rotary machines provide more heat and require caution, orbital (DA) machines are safer but slower to remove defects. For beginners, it is recommended to start with orbiting machines and pastes of medium abrasiveness.
⚠️ Warning: Never use the same polishing circle for pastes of different abrasiveness without thorough cleaning. The nuggets of coarse paste on the finish line will ruin the job, leaving deep risks.
Common mistakes in selection and application
Even with the best materials, you can get a bad result if you break the technology. One of the most common mistakes is applying the paste directly to the body with large inkblots. This leads to splashing at the start of the machine and uneven distribution.
The correct technique involves applying 3-5 peas of paste with a diameter of about 1 cm directly to the polishing circle. The circle is then slightly pressed against the surface (on the machine turned off) for primary distribution, and only after that the engine is switched on.
Another mistake is working at high speeds with finishing paste. For the finish, it is not turnovers that are important, but contact time and uniformity of movement. High speeds can lead to heating of the varnish and the appearance of new defects that will have to be removed.
- ❌ Applying the paste directly to the body (risk of splashing).
- ❌ Too much pressure on the machine (overheating).
- ❌ Work with dried paste (the appearance of dust and scratches).
- ❌ Ignoring degreasing before polishing.
It is also worth mentioning the importance of surface preparation. Before polishing, the car should be perfectly washed and, preferably, cleaned with polymer clay. The presence of sand on the surface is guaranteed to lead to deep scratches.
The quality of polishing is determined not only by paste, but also by the purity of the surface, the correct circle and technique of the master. Saving money on training always leads to marriage.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
Can I polish the car with 3M paste by hand?
Technically, it is possible, but it is extremely inefficient. 3M abrasive pastes require mechanical action and heating to activate components and work abrasive grains. Manually, you will not be able to create enough pressure and speed to remove scratches, but only spend a lot of time and effort.
How often should the polishing circle be changed?
The foam circle is replaced when it loses shape, becomes too soft or ragged. Usually one high-quality circle is enough for 10-15 full polishing of the body, provided that the correct cleaning after each use.
Should I wash my car after polishing with 3M paste?
Yes, I will. After finishing polishing, the remains of paste, dust from varnish and microparticles remain on the surface. They should be removed by washing the car with shampoo water or using a special cleaner (prep-cleaner), especially before applying wax or ceramics.
What is the difference between 3M pasta and other brands?
The main difference between 3M and the quality stability and predictability of the result. Technology Cubitron It is a unique development of the company. Other brands may be cheaper, but often require more time to work or leave more dust.