Alu box dust

mep1811

Gentleman Adventurer
I've noticed this aluminum dust in all my Alu Box's.

There is no dirt dust just powdered aluminum .

Anyone else notice this and know why this is happening?

Thanks
 

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It is aluminium and it happens. Line your box with some closed cell foam (or whatever else you want to use) and it won't be an issue. I love Zarges aluminium boxes but if they are not lined with something, dust happens.
 
Wow I didn't know that cardboard and ziplock bags would cause that much wear rubbing on the inside.
 
Try waxing. But also seconding the toolbox drawer liner material, either sheet or rubber-coated mesh. Either will really cut down noise and keep stuff form sliding around.
 
That's one reason why I stopped using aluminum clipboards; all my papers inside the compartment got black aluminum dust. I got tired of my hands turning black after handling the paper. Plus the aluminum clipboard get hot from the heat. Using a plastic compartment clipboard now, not as durable, but it holds my gas receipts and paper maps, etc when on trips.
 
Mike-

Any further information or thoughts on this? I'd like to add a couple of boxes to the back of our Tiger. Thanks.
 
Just got home so I'm in the cleaning and unpacking phase. I should get into the project phase in a couple of weeks.
 
I would think whatever that is in the box would rub through it. I will go to harbor freight and get some tool box liner and line the boxes.
 
Vibration /movement on surface of aluminum...just about anything will polish or sand the surface.

Paint / clear coat then cover with material of choice. Less prone to etching and staining...and no corrosion. Bare aluminum is great if it is never touched.
 
A fix is to find a local anodizing shop. The anodized finish is much harder, and won't be abraded by anything softer than sandpaper.
 

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