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What is Rust Repair?
What is the process of Sandblasting?
What is Rust Proofing?
What Rust Repairs do you do?
What types and classes of vehicles can you Rust Repair?
What is Repair Certification?
Who is a Repair Certifier?
What is the Repair Certification process?
What is a Repair Shop Profile?
Who is an Approved Repairer?
How much does the Repair Certification cost?
What is Vehicle Body geometry?
What is 3D Chassis Measurement?
Restoration of Vehicle Body geometry
What is Wheel Alignment?
What is Wheel Balance?
What is Low Volume Vehicle certification?
What is Low Volume Vehicle (LVV)?
Does my vehicle require LVV Certification?
What is Panel beating?
What is the process of Panel beating?
What is Rust Repair?
Currently in the automotive industry when it comes to Rust Repairs – there are a limited number of options.For minor surface rust on a small area a use of a metal brush would suffice.When rust has spread over a large area of a vehicle (for example, underbody) the most economical and efficient way is sandblasting.
Sandblasting applies sand particles mixed with high pressure air to remove paint, rust or other contaminants from metal surfaces. The sand particles are small enough so they don’t embed themselves into the metal. The effect is similar to that of using sandpaper, but provides a more even finish with no problems at corners or crannies. The result is clean bare metal and it can very quickly get rusty again if left untreated and unprotected, therefore a Rust Proofing is required.
The worst case scenario is when a sever corrosion has advanced to the point where the metal has been penetrated throughout. No metal remains at the point of the most severe corrosion. There are holes in the surface area or metal is completely missing along the edges. In this case the only solution is to cut back to sound metal and new metal welded in, or the affected part is completely replaced.Since cutting out body parts can compromise safety and structural integrity of the vehicle – these types of repairs are usually supervised and certified by NZTA licensed Repair Certifier.
Reliable NZ has an independent New Zealand Land Transport (NZTA) appointed Repair Certifier who comes on site to inspect, oversee and certify the repairs.
Sandblasting applies sand particles mixed with high pressure air to remove paint, rust or other contaminants from metal surfaces. The sand particles are small enough so they don’t embed themselves into the metal. The effect is similar to that of using sandpaper, but provides a more even finish with no problems at corners or crannies. The result is clean bare metal and it can very quickly get rusty again if left untreated and unprotected, therefore a Rust Proofing is required.
The worst case scenario is when a sever corrosion has advanced to the point where the metal has been penetrated throughout. No metal remains at the point of the most severe corrosion. There are holes in the surface area or metal is completely missing along the edges. In this case the only solution is to cut back to sound metal and new metal welded in, or the affected part is completely replaced.Since cutting out body parts can compromise safety and structural integrity of the vehicle – these types of repairs are usually supervised and certified by NZTA licensed Repair Certifier.
Reliable NZ has an independent New Zealand Land Transport (NZTA) appointed Repair Certifier who comes on site to inspect, oversee and certify the repairs.
What is the process of Sandblasting?
For minor surface rust on a small area a use of a metal brush would suffice.When rust has spread over a large area of a vehicle (for example, underbody) the most economical and efficient way is Sandblasting.
The process of underbody Sandblasting:- bring the vehicle into the sandblasting booth- remove wheels, underbody covers, wheel arch liners- sand blast all rust affected areas back to bare metal- check for any severe corrosion (spots where rust has penetrated through metal leaving holes).if severe corrosion has been detected the only solution is to cut back to sound metal and new metal welded in, or the affected part is completely replaced. - next is Rust Proofing
The process of underbody Sandblasting:- bring the vehicle into the sandblasting booth- remove wheels, underbody covers, wheel arch liners- sand blast all rust affected areas back to bare metal- check for any severe corrosion (spots where rust has penetrated through metal leaving holes).if severe corrosion has been detected the only solution is to cut back to sound metal and new metal welded in, or the affected part is completely replaced. - next is Rust Proofing
What is Rust Proofing?
Rust Proofing is the process to seal and protect body and chassis of a vehicle to extend it’s life.Usually, it starts with treating or removing all rust spots with an etch or epoxy rust converter. For minor surface rust on a small area the use of a metal brush would suffice. When rust has spread over a large area of a vehicle (for example, underbody) the most economical and efficient way is Sandblasting.Once the rust has been treated and removed, the next step is application of rust converter to prevent rust from coming back.The next step is to apply underbody sealer.And to finish the process – application of cavity wax to the inside of the chassis, seams and cavities to repel the moisture and to prevent the rust from coming back.
The process of Rust Proofing:
- vehicle is transferred to the underbody paint booth
- masking up all painted surfaces and glazing to prevent overpay
- application of etch or epoxy rust converter to prevent rust from coming back
- application of underbody sealer
- application of cavity wax to inside chassis, cavities, seams to repel the moisture
- remove masking- refitting wheels, underbody covers, wheel arch liners
What Rust Repairs do you do?
We specialize in rust repairs and sandblasting, rustproofing and recoating. We clean the rust, sandblast it off or even cut it out and weld in new metal parts. We rust proof to prevent the rust from coming back.We can also panel beating and spray paint.
We can help you:- When your car just started to show surface rust- Has developed heavy corrosion- Failed WOF or COF inspection due to underbody rust- Rust proof your SUV, campervan or even a new vehicle
We can help you:- When your car just started to show surface rust- Has developed heavy corrosion- Failed WOF or COF inspection due to underbody rust- Rust proof your SUV, campervan or even a new vehicle
What types and classes of vehicles can you Rust Repair?
We are currently approved to provide Rust Repair and Repair Certification services for:
Type of Vehicle |
Mopeds |
Motorcycles
|
Passenger Vehicles
|
Goods Vehicles
|
Class |
LA
LB |
LCLDLE |
MAMBMCMD |
NA |
Description |
with two wheelswith three wheels |
with two wheelswith two wheels and side-cartricycle |
A passenger vehicle (hatch, sedan, wagon)Light commercial vehicle (van, mini bus)4WD SUVOmnibus (more than 9 seats, GVM less than 5 tonnes) |
GVM less than 3.5 tonnes |
What is Repair Certification?
If during the Compliance (Entry Certification), an New Zealand Land Transport (NZTA) approved Inspector established that a vehicle requires, or has had, repairs to fix structural damage or deterioration (for example rust), it may require Repair Certification before it can be registered.Same applies to a WOF or COF inspection – if a WOF/COF inspector finds any damage or deterioration that may compromise safety and structural integrity of a vehicle, the vehicle will be referred to a Repair Certifier.
Appointed by NZTA a Repair Certifier Engineer will carry out a thorough inspection to ascertain the damage and advise the repair method that is required to repair the vehicle. The Repair Certifier will inspect, oversee, certify and validate the repairs before issuing a Repair Certificate (form LT308 or LT400, depending on the Class of a vehilce) at completion.
A Repair Certification inspection may involve some disassembly of a vehicle. The cost of the inspection and any required repairs varies depending on the work and certification required.
The Repair Certifier may determine the vehicle is so severely damaged that they cannot approve it for registration or that it has been badly repaired.
A full list of areas requiring Repair Certifier inspection can be found on the NZTA website, but the main points are:- evidence of rust in a structural part of the vehicle- damage affecting the integrity of any factory-bonded or welded seams or joints- damage or distortion to chassis rails- sill and pillar damage- bumper or impact absorber damage- modification, damage, or repair to steering and suspension componentry- modification, damage, or repair to braking system- evidence of water damage
For more information on repair certification please see NZTA website.
Appointed by NZTA a Repair Certifier Engineer will carry out a thorough inspection to ascertain the damage and advise the repair method that is required to repair the vehicle. The Repair Certifier will inspect, oversee, certify and validate the repairs before issuing a Repair Certificate (form LT308 or LT400, depending on the Class of a vehilce) at completion.
A Repair Certification inspection may involve some disassembly of a vehicle. The cost of the inspection and any required repairs varies depending on the work and certification required.
The Repair Certifier may determine the vehicle is so severely damaged that they cannot approve it for registration or that it has been badly repaired.
A full list of areas requiring Repair Certifier inspection can be found on the NZTA website, but the main points are:- evidence of rust in a structural part of the vehicle- damage affecting the integrity of any factory-bonded or welded seams or joints- damage or distortion to chassis rails- sill and pillar damage- bumper or impact absorber damage- modification, damage, or repair to steering and suspension componentry- modification, damage, or repair to braking system- evidence of water damage
For more information on repair certification please see NZTA website.
Who is a Repair Certifier?
Repair Certifier is an appointee of New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) and meets very specific criteria of having an exceptionally high level of collision repair industry expertise, relevant formal qualifications and is a fit and proper person.
Repair Certifiers are appointed by NZTA to carry out specialist inspection and certification of repairs to significant damage or deterioration to the structure, chassis, body-to-chassis attachment, suspension, or occupant protection system, primarily relating to light vehicles. The primary duty of a Repair Certifier is to ensure that when a vehicle is repaired, the vehicle is returned to within a safe tolerance of its state when manufactured. Repair Certifier carries significant responsibility to inspect, certify, and validate body repairs which are performed on any vehicle entering (or re-entering) the New Zealand fleet.
Repair Certifiers are appointed by NZTA to carry out specialist inspection and certification of repairs to significant damage or deterioration to the structure, chassis, body-to-chassis attachment, suspension, or occupant protection system, primarily relating to light vehicles. The primary duty of a Repair Certifier is to ensure that when a vehicle is repaired, the vehicle is returned to within a safe tolerance of its state when manufactured. Repair Certifier carries significant responsibility to inspect, certify, and validate body repairs which are performed on any vehicle entering (or re-entering) the New Zealand fleet.
What is the Repair Certification process?
Repair Certification is the process of structural repairs of a vehicle that is in line with the
- regulations and can be only carried out by the NZTA appointed Repair Certifier.
Initial InspectionNZTA appointed Repair Certifier carries out an initial inspection to inspect a vehicle for any previous repairs, direct or indirect damage, corrosion, or metal fatigue to any part of the structure, systems, or components of the vehicle.Damaged vehicles will need to be inspected before any stripping or repairs are started.
ReportUpon initial inspection the Repair Certifier provides a report outlining any repair instructions for an Approved Repairer before work commences. This report advises of any supporting evidence or documents required.
Required DocumentsBelow is the list of documents that a Repair Certifier will request depending on the repair:- ABS/SRS/ESC/ADAS Report- Wheel Alignment Report- 3D Chassis Measurement Report- Parts and/or Components Invoices (if applicable)- Proof of purchase- Insurance Invoice (if applicable) - Parts Invoices (if applicable) - etc. Inspections of RepairsAny repairs are to be carried out only by an Approved Repairer.To validate the repairs, the intermediate inspection(s) of the vehicle are required on each stage of the repairs after repairs have started (but before priming/painting).
Final InspectionThe Repair Certifier conducts the final inspection of the completed repairs.All supporting evidence is provided and kept on file. When all repairs have been certified the LT308 (Repair Certificate) is issued. The vehicle needs to be returned to the Compliance Centre for a re-check.
Once the Compliance (Entry Certification) has been completed an “Application for registration of a motor vehicle” (form MR2A) will be issued for the vehicle which verifies that the vehicle now complies with NZ standards and is permitted to be registered for use on NZ roads.
Required DocumentsBelow is the list of documents that a Repair Certifier will request depending on the repair:- ABS/SRS/ESC/ADAS Report- Wheel Alignment Report- 3D Chassis Measurement Report- Parts and/or Components Invoices (if applicable)- Proof of purchase- Insurance Invoice (if applicable) - Parts Invoices (if applicable) - etc. Inspections of RepairsAny repairs are to be carried out only by an Approved Repairer.To validate the repairs, the intermediate inspection(s) of the vehicle are required on each stage of the repairs after repairs have started (but before priming/painting).
Final InspectionThe Repair Certifier conducts the final inspection of the completed repairs.All supporting evidence is provided and kept on file. When all repairs have been certified the LT308 (Repair Certificate) is issued. The vehicle needs to be returned to the Compliance Centre for a re-check.
Once the Compliance (Entry Certification) has been completed an “Application for registration of a motor vehicle” (form MR2A) will be issued for the vehicle which verifies that the vehicle now complies with NZ standards and is permitted to be registered for use on NZ roads.
What is a Repair Shop Profile?
A Repair Certifier must have a repairer’s workhop profile on their register before issuing any work instructions or carrying out any activities at the premises. A repair shop profile should include:- the name, address and contact details of the repair shop- a list of staff and their qualifications- equipment on hand to undertake repair work- the repair category that the repair certifier has determined the repair shop site in.
Who is an Approved Repairer?
New Zealand Land Transport (NZTA) appointed Repair Certifier has a list of Approved Repairers.Depending on the capabilities and requirements relative to the specific repairs there are different categories of repairers - A, B, C and D.
Reliable NZ Limited is a category A repairer.
Repairer
category |
A
|
B
|
C
|
D
|
Repairer and repair technicians:minimum capabilities | Repairer premises and equipment:minimum requirements |
Able to perform all classes of work from single panel repairs to major body structural repairs, unless specialised repair required. Aluminium, composite, carbon fibre repairs must go to a manufacturer recommended repairer. All repair technician’s will be required to hold current manufacturer's, I-CAR or equivalent welding certificates for the material being welded. | Repairer required to have a shop profile. Site complies with Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 requirements. Required to be a Structural Repair Centre.If the repair centre is a current member of either CRA, RCA or MTA (Collision Repairer - Structural Specialist member) they would automatically be deemed to be compliant with the repair structural shop criteria in all respects. Repair shops must have the required equipment to carry out the repairs being undertaken. |
Able to perform single panel repairs and minor body damage repairs. For example, sills/dogleg outer skin repairs/replacement. Note: this DOES NOT include complete sill/dog leg/pillar or similar replacement. This must be done by a Category A repairer. Repair technicians to be on file with minimum I-CAR or similar welding certificate. | Repairer required to have a shop profile. Site complies with Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 requirements. Repairers are required to have a dent machine with copper nail tooling etc. Appropriate glue dent removal systems. Repair shops must have the required equipment to carry out the repairs being undertaken. |
Able to repair pre-1990 vehicles using best industry practice.
For example, rust repairs, patching and replacement of panels. Proven work skill will be required to undertake the repair. Note: If the vehicle requires structural (including corrosion of structural areas) damage repairs, and specialist knowledge or equipment is required, the repair certifier must be satisfied the repairer has proven work skills and knowledge/equipment for the type of repair being carried out. | Repair certifier required to develop shop or individual profile only. Site complies with Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 requirements. |
The majority of work performed is sandblasting. The repairer must be able to perform the required surface rust rectification process (no patching is allowed in the rectification process). | Sandblasting repair premises is required to have a profile of equipment for sandblasting and treating and for the rust proofing process. Site complies with Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 requirements. The repairers rust process is to be approved by the Repair Certifier and comply with the rust rectification processes published by the RCA. This includes use of approved products (a list of which will be supplied and maintained by the RCA). |
How much does the Repair Certification cost?
Repair Certification cost fully depends on the extend of the required repairs, repair procedures, required parts, reports, etc.On average, the whole process (including all inspections, repairs, parts, labour, reports, etc.) of obtaining a Repair Certificate for a minor issue would be around $1,000+GST. In more complicated cases of Hail/Water damaged vehicles, severe collisions, etc. the cost can reach a couple of thousands of dollars or even more.
What is Vehicle Body geometry?
Vehicle body geometry is is an important characteristic of a vehicle. It determines the positions of a set of certain control points on a car and their distances relative to each other. The measurements of these distances allows to evaluate any deviation from factory standard and check the alignment of individual body parts and components.
Body geometry is an important characteristic of a vehicle. It determines the position of the body elements relative to each other and ensures the correct operation of the vehicle control system.
Car body geometry must comply with the car manufacturer's standards. The initial geometry is determined using measurements of control points using specialized equipment.
The correct geometry is crucial for:- safety - drive comfort- service life of tires and suspension parts- vehicle handling- fuel consumption, etc. Usually, a vehicle body becomes deformed and geometry gets out of manufacturer specifications as a result of an accident. Three-dimensional chassis measurement is used to check and verify the geometry of a vehicle body.
The correct geometry is crucial for:- safety - drive comfort- service life of tires and suspension parts- vehicle handling- fuel consumption, etc. Usually, a vehicle body becomes deformed and geometry gets out of manufacturer specifications as a result of an accident. Three-dimensional chassis measurement is used to check and verify the geometry of a vehicle body.
What is 3D Chassis Measurement?
Usually, a vehicle body becomes deformed and geometry, shape gets out of manufacturer's specifications as a result of an accident.Three-dimensional chassis measurement is used to check and verify the geometry of a vehicle body, it provides an accurate assessment of a damage. This allows collision repair technicians to record vehicle measurements before and after the straightening process, ensuring that the vehicle is restored to the original manufacturer's specifications.
3D Measurement is performed using a specialized measuring system based on modern computer technologies. The measurement allows to detect visible and hidden body damage, which often affects integrity, safety and performance of the vehicle.
We use Car-O-Liner equipment, the global leader in providing innovative and productive collision repair equipment.
Restoration of Vehicle Body geometry
Restoration of vehicle's body geometry is a process to return the car body to its original shape and position.
Vehicle body geometry is restored using a specilized equipment that stretches deformed elements (chassis, frame, support) in three dimensions. The process is monitored by a computer, which compares the measured values of various control points against the original manufacturer's specifications.
To restore the geometry of the body, the vehicle is placed on a stand. At certain points the pulling devices are attached to the Chassis Pulling Machine, through which the stritching force is appllied. The direction, duration and magnitude of the applied pulling force are calculated by the machine's computer.
The stretching is measured in real time to prevent the possibility of making any mistakes.
In conjunction with pulling out structures, welding work may also be carried out. It is necessary to restore the strength of load-bearing elements, as well as to eliminate cracks and tears in the metal.
The process:
- car drives onto the stand- electronic assessment of the degree of metal stretching- installation of pulling and other required devices onto the machine- pulling in areas with deformed geometry- computer determines and applies the required pulling force and its direction, so the human factor is completely eliminated
- the stretching is measured in real time to prevent the possibility of making any mistakes
Upon completion of the restoration work, the vehicle is sent again for 3D Measurements and analysis to verify the repairs.
Restoring geometry is a very labor-intensive and time-consuming process. We use Car-O-Liner equipment, the global leader in providing innovative and productive collision repair equipment.
Restoring geometry is a very labor-intensive and time-consuming process. We use Car-O-Liner equipment, the global leader in providing innovative and productive collision repair equipment.
What is Wheel Alignment?
Wheel alignment consists of adjusting a vehicle's angles of wheels to the vehicle manufacturer specifications. The purpose of these adjustments is to reduce tyre wear and to ensure that the vehicle travel is straight and true, without "pulling" to one side.
Wheels often become misaligned by hitting potholes, bumps, kerbs, driving on uneven surfaces and through general wear and tear.
The primary angles are the basic angle alignment of the wheels relative to each other and to the car body. These adjustments are the camber, caster and toe and they are adjusted by altering the vehicle’s suspension. On some cars, not all of these can be adjusted on every wheel.
Signs that wheels maybe out of alignment are:- uneven tyre tread wear
- steering wheel is off-centre when driving straight
- vehicle pulls off to one side when driving
Wheel Alignment is carried out using a computerized alignment machine that measures wheel angles. The angle measurements are compared against the vehicle’s manufacturer specifications.
It is recommend to check wheel alignment at least every 10,000km or at any time there is a change in driving or handling of a vehicle.
What is Wheel Balance?
Wheel balancing is a process carried out to balance the weight of a tyre and wheel assembly so that it spins smoothly at high speed.
The tyre and wheel combination can have slightly more or less weight in one area, and even the slightest difference in weight distribution can result in vibration and shaking when driving. When the wheel is balanced properly it rolls smoothly, wears evenly and lasts longer. A sign the wheel is out of balance is steering wheel vibration, especially at higher speeds.
The tyre and wheel combination can have slightly more or less weight in one area, and even the slightest difference in weight distribution can result in vibration and shaking when driving. When the wheel is balanced properly it rolls smoothly, wears evenly and lasts longer. A sign the wheel is out of balance is steering wheel vibration, especially at higher speeds.
What is Low Volume Vehicle certification?
All vehicles to be legally used, operated and driven on New Zealand public roads must comply with New Zealand approved safety standards and regulations.
Once a vehicle is modified from its original state or is scratch-built it needs to be safe to be operated on the road, and comply as closely as practicable with the legal safety requirements applicable to high volume production vehicles.
The purpose of Low Volume Vehicle certification is to ensure that all modified vehicles ‐ whether modified for commercial, passenger service, disability, recreational, leisure, sporting, or compliance purposes – and scratch‐built vehicles, are safe to be operated on the road, and comply with the legal safety requirements applicable to high volume production vehicles.
For more information on LVV certification, please visit Low Volume Vehicle Technical Association (LVVTA) website.
Once a vehicle is modified from its original state or is scratch-built it needs to be safe to be operated on the road, and comply as closely as practicable with the legal safety requirements applicable to high volume production vehicles.
The purpose of Low Volume Vehicle certification is to ensure that all modified vehicles ‐ whether modified for commercial, passenger service, disability, recreational, leisure, sporting, or compliance purposes – and scratch‐built vehicles, are safe to be operated on the road, and comply with the legal safety requirements applicable to high volume production vehicles.
For more information on LVV certification, please visit Low Volume Vehicle Technical Association (LVVTA) website.
What is Low Volume Vehicle (LVV)?
All vehicles, to be legally used, operated and driven on New Zealand roads, must comply with New Zealand approved safety standards and regulations.
Although the rules and regulations allow to modify, customise or retune a car, motorcycle, van or ute - any changes made to a vehicle must not put passengers, drivers or other road users at risk when the modified vehicle is operated on the road. To ensure these modifications meet the safety standards and regulations, the vehicle need to obtain a Low Volume Vehicle (LVV) certification.
Once a vehicle (scratch-built or modified) has been inspected and certified by approved Low Volume Certifier (and obtained Low Volume Vehicle certificate) – it become Low Volume Vehicle.
Although the rules and regulations allow to modify, customise or retune a car, motorcycle, van or ute - any changes made to a vehicle must not put passengers, drivers or other road users at risk when the modified vehicle is operated on the road. To ensure these modifications meet the safety standards and regulations, the vehicle need to obtain a Low Volume Vehicle (LVV) certification.
Once a vehicle (scratch-built or modified) has been inspected and certified by approved Low Volume Certifier (and obtained Low Volume Vehicle certificate) – it become Low Volume Vehicle.
Does my vehicle require LVV Certification?
Usually, a vehicle that has been modified from its original factory specifications requires Low Volume Vehicle (LVV) certification to be legally on the road and to pass WOF or COF (Warrant of Fitness or Certificate of Fitness).
A Low Volume Vehicle Certification is required for vehicles that have:- suspension modifications (e.g. adjustable suspension, lowered suspension)- larger that factory specified wheels- engine modifications (re-powers with increased capacity, power, weight and different fuel or engine type)- roll cage fitments- seat or seatbelt modifications- wheels with spacers- fitted disability controls- etc.
For more information on LVV certification, please visit Low Volume Vehicle Technical Association (LVVTA) website.
A Low Volume Vehicle Certification is required for vehicles that have:- suspension modifications (e.g. adjustable suspension, lowered suspension)- larger that factory specified wheels- engine modifications (re-powers with increased capacity, power, weight and different fuel or engine type)- roll cage fitments- seat or seatbelt modifications- wheels with spacers- fitted disability controls- etc.
For more information on LVV certification, please visit Low Volume Vehicle Technical Association (LVVTA) website.
What is Panel beating?
Panel beating is the process of repairing damaged car panels or other vehicle body elements. It involves restoring the shape and structure of a panel using a variety of tools, techniques, materials, specialized equipment and often includes cutting and welding, filling and sanding.
Depending on the nature and extent of a damage, the combination of required repair operations, make and model of a car and its design features, the following types of repairs are distinguished:
CosmeticIt is carried out without dismantling car body elements and includes the repairs of chips, areas of surface corrosion, scratches, roughness and other cosmetic defects.Usually involves pulling out dents or minor panel straightening, paint touch ups, cut and polish.If the paintwork is not damaged, paintless straightening is often performed using devices such as straightening hammers, counter supports, pulling hammers, etc.
Light Structural RepairsA specific element is being repaired or changed (bumper, door, etc.);
Heavy Structural Repairs (Collision Damage Repairs / Restoration of body geometry)This is a complex and lengthy process carried out after serious road accidents. It involves a thorough car body structure measurement using sophisticated 3D Measuring System and analysis of the compliance of the geometric parameters of the body after an accident with the standard established by the manufacturer. This can include straightening bent frames and restoring the vehicle's structural integrity, repairing or replacing damaged panels using metal cutting and welding technologies.Heave Structural Repairs may require Repair Certification. Rust RepairsOver time, vehicles can develop rust and corrosion damage, particularly in areas that are exposed to moisture. Panel beating can be used to remove minor surface rust and restore the affected panels. Sandblasting and Rust Proofing are traditionally used for major rust and corroion repairs. Heave Structural Repairs may require Repair Certification.
CosmeticIt is carried out without dismantling car body elements and includes the repairs of chips, areas of surface corrosion, scratches, roughness and other cosmetic defects.Usually involves pulling out dents or minor panel straightening, paint touch ups, cut and polish.If the paintwork is not damaged, paintless straightening is often performed using devices such as straightening hammers, counter supports, pulling hammers, etc.
Light Structural RepairsA specific element is being repaired or changed (bumper, door, etc.);
Heavy Structural Repairs (Collision Damage Repairs / Restoration of body geometry)This is a complex and lengthy process carried out after serious road accidents. It involves a thorough car body structure measurement using sophisticated 3D Measuring System and analysis of the compliance of the geometric parameters of the body after an accident with the standard established by the manufacturer. This can include straightening bent frames and restoring the vehicle's structural integrity, repairing or replacing damaged panels using metal cutting and welding technologies.Heave Structural Repairs may require Repair Certification. Rust RepairsOver time, vehicles can develop rust and corrosion damage, particularly in areas that are exposed to moisture. Panel beating can be used to remove minor surface rust and restore the affected panels. Sandblasting and Rust Proofing are traditionally used for major rust and corroion repairs. Heave Structural Repairs may require Repair Certification.
What is the process of Panel beating?
Panel beating involves a series of steps to repair the damage to a vehicle's body. These steps vary depending on the extent of the damage and the type of vehicle.
The basic process of panel beating includes the following steps:- Visual Inspection: estimator inspects a vehicle to locate all the damage - Assessment: estimator may request to disassemble parts of the vehicle to gain access to the damaged area to determines the extent of the damage(s) - Disassemble: panel beater may need to disassemble parts of the vehicle to allow the estimator to gain access to the damaged area. - Quotation: based on the outcome of the examination of the extent of the damage the estimator selects the appropriate repair methods and provides a Job Card to a panel beater with the steps to follow. - Parts: the estimator may need to order parts or body components required for repairs. - Repair: the panel beater uses the Job Card and a variety of tools and techniques to repair the damaged panel(s). This may include welding, remove /refit of body elements, sanding and filling to restore the shape and structure of the panel. - Prime: after the panel has been repaired, it is primed to prepare it for painting. - Paint: once the primer has dried, the panel is painted to match the colour to the rest of the vehicle. Panels may need to be polished with special fine-grained pastes using a polishing machine to achieve a smooth finish. - Reassemble: After the painting is complete, the panel beater reassembles any parts that were removed during the repair process. - Quality Check: once the repair is complete the vehicle is checked for any imperfections.
The basic process of panel beating includes the following steps:- Visual Inspection: estimator inspects a vehicle to locate all the damage - Assessment: estimator may request to disassemble parts of the vehicle to gain access to the damaged area to determines the extent of the damage(s) - Disassemble: panel beater may need to disassemble parts of the vehicle to allow the estimator to gain access to the damaged area. - Quotation: based on the outcome of the examination of the extent of the damage the estimator selects the appropriate repair methods and provides a Job Card to a panel beater with the steps to follow. - Parts: the estimator may need to order parts or body components required for repairs. - Repair: the panel beater uses the Job Card and a variety of tools and techniques to repair the damaged panel(s). This may include welding, remove /refit of body elements, sanding and filling to restore the shape and structure of the panel. - Prime: after the panel has been repaired, it is primed to prepare it for painting. - Paint: once the primer has dried, the panel is painted to match the colour to the rest of the vehicle. Panels may need to be polished with special fine-grained pastes using a polishing machine to achieve a smooth finish. - Reassemble: After the painting is complete, the panel beater reassembles any parts that were removed during the repair process. - Quality Check: once the repair is complete the vehicle is checked for any imperfections.