SMART REPAIR PROCESS
The SMART filler process, also known as Small to Medium Area Repair Techniques, is a method used in the automotive industry to repair minor damage on vehicles efficiently. It involves four main steps: preparation, repairing, and painting.
Preparation: The first step is to prepare the damaged area for repair. This involves cleaning the surface to remove any dirt, grease, or debris. The damaged area is then sanded down using various grits of sandpaper to create a smooth and even surface ready for repair.
Repairing: Once the area is properly prepared then if required, a filler material is applied to fill in the damaged scuff or dented area. The filler is typically a two-component product consisting of a resin and a hardener. These components are mixed together and applied to the damaged area using a spreader or applicator. After the filler has dried and hardened, the filler is shaped and smoothed to match the contours of the surrounding surface. The repaired area is then cleaned again to remove any dust or residue.
Primer: Once cleaned and masked off areas not to be primed, the primer is mixed according to the manufacturer's instructions, ensuring the right ratio of primer to hardener for optimal application. The primer is applied using a spray gun, ensuring even coverage. Once the primer dries, it is sanded with fine-grit sandpaper to smooth out any imperfections and ensure a seamless surface for the paint. The panel is then cleaned to remove dust before painting.
Painting: The final step is to blend the repaired area with the surrounding paintwork to achieve a uniform appearance. This is done by carefully feathering the edges of the repair and applying layers of basecoat. The new paint is matched to the vehicle's original colour and then multiple layers of clearcoat are applied to achieve the gloss finish. Finally, the repaired area is polished and buffed to blend it seamlessly with the rest of the vehicle's surface.
By following these four steps, the SMART repair process enables technicians to efficiently repair small to medium-sized areas of damage on vehicles, resulting in a high-quality and visually appealing finish.