C6220 - Autobody and paint shops, bumper electroplating, auto rust proofing, auto glass installation, auto vinyl roofs, fibreglassing boats and autos

Operational Details
Autobody and paint shops operate out of a warehouse type facility. It is not unusual for an autobody business to have a sand blaster that removes rust and grit. A paint booth is also used, which allows the painting of the vehicle without having contaminants ruining the finished coat.

Autobody mechanics or repair personnel remove parts of the body that are damaged beyond repair. This is usually accomplished by removing bolts and/or screws. If the body part such as a fender, door, or quarter panel is salvageable, bonding material is placed into the cracks or dents and when dried, is sanded and made smooth with the rest of the surface. Special mallets and metal hammers are used to pound out dents, and others are hydraulically jacked out to the desired shape.

Before painting the metal, it is primed with a paint primer and then rough sanded, a bottom coat is applied, and if necessary it is sanded and then a final coat can be applied. Air breathing apparatus is used by the painter to avoid inhalation of paint fumes. Plastic paint dry quicker and results in less fumes developing.

Bumper electroplating is often done by a speciality shop that supplies body shops. The process of restoring bumpers includes: removing rust and pressure washing the metal. Then lowering it into dip tanks containing chemicals. Electrically charged plating solutions bonds a chrome like substance to the old bumper, restoring it to new condition.

Auto rust proofing is also done by employers in this industry. It involves using as high pressure sprayer to remove dirt, grime and greases from underneath a vehicle. A tar like substance is then sprayed on by a machine that uses a coarse petroleum product that adheres to metal. It is sprayed on the undercarriage or frame, inside of wheel wells and inside the trunk of a car. This process retards rusting and protects from dust entering inside the vehicle.

Auto glass installation includes removing the damaged windshield, side windows and rear window glass, then cleaning out the opening with an air hose, which removes the small pieces of glass that may remain. Factory auto glass is then installed by placing the glass into the opening, using a waterproof sealant. Rubber suction cup handles are used to remove and/or assemble the replacement glass into the vehicle. Tinted glass is often used for windshields and a substitute, vinyl tinted plastic film may be placed over the untinted glass.

Auto glass employers will also repair small chips and breaks by injecting silicone into the crack to avoid further cracking. This service is often provided for insurance companies to help keep the cost of replacing glass down. These businesses may incidentally repair window glass and sell mirrors. Window cleaners and polishes may also be sold. Mobile service trucks may be used to replace auto glass at the employer’s residence or place of business.

Vinyl roof installations may also be done, which involves placing a vinyl leather like product over the roof portion of the vehicle. It is then glued and sealed to a watertight condition. It may be trimmed and employers might also incidentally install matching vinyl inside the vehicle on the dash, or upholstery.

Fiberglassing boats and cars involves repair only. This process involves using fiberglass, resins and chemicals, which assist in drying, creating hardness, and bonding to the original material. The substance begins as a liquid, but once applied by sprayer, roller or brush, forms into a solid material. Fiberglass tears or breaks are repaired by stretching fiberglass over the hole. After several layers, corresponding resins are applied, the material sets up and helps form a continuous structure. Paint or special coatings can be applied after a final sanding.

SIC Codes
000000306 - Autobody and paint shop
000000308 - Auto rust proofing
000000311 - Fibreglassing boats and autos
000000310 - Auto vinyl roofs
000000309 - Auto glass inst.
000000307 - Bumper electroplating