SAE AIR 3270

This SAE Aerospace Information Report (AIR) provides information on the possible methods of sealant removal. The discussion will focus on the methods of sealant removal and give the strengths and weaknesses of each method.

The purpose of this document is to assist those concerned with aircraft sealant removal to choose the best available method for their purpose considering a number of factors. Recognition of the ESOH (Environmental, Safety, and Occupational Health) hazards involved in the traditional (chemical based) sealant removal processes as well as the ever increasing cost of the associated waste disposal involved, prompted the DOD to initiate a number of programs to test and evaluate alternative sealant removal processes, as well as, to develop new technology approaches. This DOD activity is also driven by the need to comply with numerous environmental regulations and statutes promulgated by the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) initiatives to include: the Clean Water Act (CWA), Clean Air Act (CAA) amendments of 1990, the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) and the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA).

The field of application includes aircraft sealant removal at the manufacturing, depot, and field levels.