Separating Aluminum Trim from Plastic Backing...

Deep_Blue · 11-13-2013, 10:58 AM

I have a project going where i want to use a section of aluminum trim separate from its plastic backing. Has anyone ever successfully separated the aluminum and plastic backing without damaging the aluminum?

I've been able to pry off a section on a test piece, but the aluminum is so soft that it bends easily. My next idea is to use acetone (melts plastic) and something like fishing line/dental floss/metal filament to run between the aluminum and plastic as a cutting wire. Hoping the Acetone wont etch the aluminum.

I expect this is the first time someone has asked this, but ideas are welcome

Deep_Blue · 11-14-2013, 08:50 AM

wow, 68 views and no replies! Guess this is new territory. If i figure it out i'll post instructions

lito · 11-15-2013, 06:52 AM

what are you trying to do with the trim? i dont think ive seen anyone separate the actual trim from the plastic part.

bmw325i · 11-15-2013, 10:16 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by lito

what are you trying to do with the trim? i dont think ive seen anyone separate the actual trim from the plastic part.

+1 I'm curious to what you have in mind as well.

rbtamms · 11-15-2013, 11:08 AM

It's either you will bend the aluminum or break the plastic backing. I broke my plastic accidentally when I'm trying to wrap it...it's very brittle.

longnvu · 11-15-2013, 08:29 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bmw325i

+1 I'm curious to what you have in mind as well.

+2 very curious as well

11-13-2013, 10:58 AM	#1
Deep_Blue First Lieutenant 70 Rep 374 Posts Drives: Montego 335i e90 Join Date: Apr 2011 Location: internet iTrader: (1)	Separating Aluminum Trim from Plastic Backing... I have a project going where i want to use a section of aluminum trim separate from its plastic backing. Has anyone ever successfully separated the aluminum and plastic backing without damaging the aluminum? I've been able to pry off a section on a test piece, but the aluminum is so soft that it bends easily. My next idea is to use acetone (melts plastic) and something like fishing line/dental floss/metal filament to run between the aluminum and plastic as a cutting wire. Hoping the Acetone wont etch the aluminum. I expect this is the first time someone has asked this, but ideas are welcome
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11-14-2013, 08:50 AM	#2
Deep_Blue First Lieutenant 70 Rep 374 Posts Drives: Montego 335i e90 Join Date: Apr 2011 Location: internet iTrader: (1)	wow, 68 views and no replies! Guess this is new territory. If i figure it out i'll post instructions
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11-15-2013, 06:52 AM	#3
lito Colonel 167 Rep 2,174 Posts Drives: E92, F30 Join Date: May 2009 Location: DC metro iTrader: (11)	what are you trying to do with the trim? i dont think ive seen anyone separate the actual trim from the plastic part.
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11-15-2013, 11:08 AM	#5
rbtamms Major 63 Rep 1,450 Posts Drives: 2011 E90 and 2013 F25 Join Date: May 2011 Location: San Francisco iTrader: (4) Garage List 2011 328i [0.00]	It's either you will bend the aluminum or break the plastic backing. I broke my plastic accidentally when I'm trying to wrap it...it's very brittle. __________________
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