Polishing and Dusting

[Wyle E Coyote]

Hello fellow detailers,

I'm sure it was asked hundreds of times, but I can't seem to find a thread that details with the reasoning the effect of dusting while machine polishing with certain compounds and polishes.

Does dust particles arise from:

-over polishing on the current section
-using too much / too little pressure
-using too high/low of a speed
-incorrect pad selection for the compound used (i.e. too aggressive)
-too much /not enough arm speed
-pad is dirty and needs to be cleaned
-other reasons not listed or...

... is it just an inherent feature of polishing and is considered to be something that's normal and nothing to be overly concerned of? (Or on the contrary, could it be desirable to keep on polishing a section until the user actually does see some dust particles breaking down from the polish/compound?)

Also, what is your preferred method of eliminating dust on the panels before moving on to the next stage of polishing or LSP?

I don't have a dust blower, so would using ISP Rubbing alcohol with water do or using a product like CarPro Eraser?

Thanks and happy detailing to all!

[Mike Phillips]

Just read your PM alerting me of your thread here.... apologize for the delay, been a tick busy...



Pictures & Comments: May 2015 Detailing Boot Camp Class!



Dust is dried residue made up from the product you're using and paint you're abrading off the car. Might be some foam particles in there too...


Some products dry faster than others and when the product you're using goes from a wet film to a dusty residue that's caused by drying and drying out is caused by heat, evaporation of the carrying agents as well as a natural occurrence from simply working the product.


Couple of question...

What are you working on?

What kind of environment are you working in?

Warm temps? Cold temps? Wind?

Type of tool or tools?

Type of pads or pads?

[TFTADetail]

I have also seen the dusting happen when the pad you're using is somewhat dried out or you have more product on the outside edges of the pad that isn't actually being kept in contact with the polishing surface.
A quick spritz on the pad (water, quick detailer) will quickly alleviate the problem.
Just a suggestion.

[Don M]

As far as removing dust that occurs when compounding, some go overboard (IMO) and do a complete wash, others use a Quik Detailer on the paint since the trim and glass will be cleaned up in their own steps later.