Grinding aluminium components

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2019 MINI Cooper, 2018 MINI Cooper, 2017 MINI Cooper, 2016 MINI Cooper, and 2015 MINI Cooper. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

1.0 Recommended tools and equipment

Grinding work on the outer skin:

To carry out grinding work by hand or machine, you must use the appropriate tools and equipment.
The workbay can be cleaned with conventional extractor systems (low dust concentration).

Grinding work on the structure:

To carry out grinding work by hand or machine, you must use the appropriate tools and equipment.
The workbay can be cleaned with conventional extractor systems (low dust concentration).

2.0 Grinding outer skin and structure

Do not use any abrasives (grinding wheels, paper, etc.) which contain iron (risk of corrosion).

Always replace abrasives which have already been used to treat steel (risk of corrosion).

Use stainless steel wire brushes only (risk of corrosion).

Reduce speed of grinding machines. Excessive speeds cause a smearing effect.

Do not use coarse abrasive grains (only ≥ 80).

Do not grind notches into the material (risk of cracking).

Do not grind the material thin.