We leave Bologna behind, but the journey continues.
No sooner have we closed one stand than we are ready for one of the most important events in the industrial coating sector:Paint Expo 2026.
For us, this is a well established presence. Each edition raises the bar, and this year we arrive with a completely redesigned stand, updated technical solutions, and new proposals developed for a market that is accelerating in terms of efficiency, sustainability, and process control.
At our stand, alongside the ALIT team, some of our European distributors will also be present: an opportunity to strengthen our international network, discuss real applications, and develop new operational synergies.
What will you find?
FASTRIP ISP: our established in line stripping system for hooks and racks
Rana Verona are the 2026 Del Monte® Coppa Italia Champions: a dominant 3-0 final victory against Itas Trentino at the Unipol Arena. This is a historic milestone for Verona, one that ALIT, as an official sponsor, celebrates with great pride.
Rana Verona are the 2026 Del Monte® Coppa Italia Champions, securing a 3-0 victory over Itas Trentino at the Unipol Arena in Casalecchio di Reno. For ALIT, official sponsor, this is a moment of pride that speaks to the strength of Verona, the team, and our territory.
In the final, Coach Fabio Soli’s squad dictated the pace and maintained composure during key moments, closing the match 21-25, 22-25, 20-25. The game opened with an immediate break (0-4) and was definitively sealed in the third set, with scoring runs that certified the gap (3-8, 9-16, 12-21).
Micah Christenson was named MVP of the Final Four; offensive leaders included Noumory Keita with 15 points and Darlan Ferreira Souza with 12.
This Coppa Italia victory also sends a powerful message of sporting culture: daily hard work, cohesion, and respect for the opponent. President Stefano Fanini dedicated the win “to our magnificent city and our splendid province,” while the atmosphere of the event acted as a perfect stage: 9,130 spectators and a sold-out Unipol Arena.
For ALIT, born and raised in the Verona area, supporting Verona Volley “goes far beyond a logo on a jersey”: it is a choice rooted in identity and values. We believe in research, innovation, and repurposing because every significant achievement stems from method, continuous improvement, and responsibility toward the community.
For years in the industrial paint stripping sector, cold paint strippers have been considered the most practical and effective solution. No heating, no thermal management, immediate action at room temperature.
Many of these products were formulated with methylene chloride and halogenated hydrocarbons: highly efficient chlorinated solvents capable of rapidly removing even complex coating systems. From a technical standpoint, the results were excellent. The problem is that this effectiveness comes at a cost. These substances are toxic to humans and harmful to the environment. They are highly volatile, spread easily in the air, and increase the risk of operator exposure. The same chemical aggressiveness that guarantees high performance is what makes them dangerous.
What They Can Cause to People and the Environment
From a health perspective, exposure, especially by inhalation, can affect the central nervous system, leading to reduced visual and motor functions. In poorly ventilated environments, vapors can accumulate, increasing the risk of asphyxiation. In the case of methylene chloride, part of the substance can be metabolized into carbon monoxide, further worsening the risk profile. From an environmental perspective, beyond airborne emissions linked to high volatility, these substances can contaminate soil and water in the event of uncontrolled release, generating impacts that extend far beyond a single production cycle.
Today, these products still exist and in some cases are still used, particularly where regulations are less restrictive. However, the industrial landscape has changed. Safety, sustainability, and regulatory compliance are no longer secondary aspects: they are integral parts of the process. The real question is not whether cold paint strippers work. They do. The question is whether they are consistent with a modern and responsible production model. In recent years, the sector has been moving toward less hazardous alternatives with a more balanced safety profile. In particular, hot paint strippers are taking on a central role: the controlled use of temperature makes it possible to reduce reliance on extremely aggressive substances while maintaining high performance. At ALIT, we work every day on this balance: industrial performance and health protection must move in the same direction.
The objective is clear: excellent results, without compromising operator safety or the environment. Cold paint strippers are not a taboo. Believing that performance alone is enough is.
We’re happy to announce that from March 4th to 6th, 2026, you’ll find us at Hall 22, Booth C50, ready to welcome you as always with new ideas, networking, and business opportunities… but we know what you’re really wondering:
What about the sopressa?
Don’t worry, it will be there too, together with a nice glass of prosecco… but this year we decided to go even further!
Every day at 11:00 AM and 4:00 PM, we’ll have a special aperitivo moment: let’s call it… AperiALIT. A chance to relax and enjoy some time together right at our booth, sipping a refreshing Aperol Spritz and sharing some great bites. It will also be the perfect moment to reveal a few exciting 2026 previews!
We can’t wait to “open the doors” of our stand and welcome you in person!
Automotive paint stripping is the controlled removal of paints and coatings from automotive components. It is a process step, not an aesthetic operation, used in production, maintenance and refurbishment on alloy wheels, frames, paint hooks, aluminum parts and powder-coated components. In the automotive industry, process repeatability is critical. If the wrong method is used, adhesion of the new coating cycle, dimensional tolerances and component integrity can be compromised.
What is automotive paint stripping?
Automotive paint stripping, or automotive stripping, is the total or selective removal of paint and coatings from components intended for the automotive sector. The terms paint stripping and paint removal are often used as synonyms, but in automotive applications the process must handle:
tight dimensional tolerances
lightweight metals and alloys
technical coatings and powder coating
the need to preserve mechanical and surface integrity
The choice of technology depends on material, geometry, coating type and final objective.
Automotive paint stripping techniques
Chemical paint stripping
Automotive chemical paint stripping (chemical stripping, chemical paint removal) uses liquid solutions formulated to dissolve coatings without attacking the metal. It is one of the most widely used technologies in the automotive sector because it ensures process control and consistent results.
In automotive applications, it is commonly used for:
alloy wheels, where complete removal of paint and powder coating is required without altering wheel geometry
paint hooks and line equipment, which must be cyclically refurbished to ensure consistent coating quality
complex components with cavities and hard-to-reach geometries
It is also particularly suitable for automotive powder coat removal, thanks to its selective action on the coating.
Mechanical stripping removes paint by abrasion, through blasting or other mechanical systems. In the automotive sector its use is limited but targeted.
Typical applications include:
frames or robust structures, where minor surface variations do not affect functionality
steel components intended for industrial coating cycles
It is less suitable for alloy wheels or precision components, as it can alter tolerances, surface finish and geometry, making it unsuitable for high-quality applications.
Thermal paint stripping
Heat stripping or thermal paint stripping degrades coatings through heat. In automotive, this technology must be carefully evaluated.
It is mainly used for:
steel line equipment
components that need to be stripped quickly and have no critical dimensional requirements
It is not recommended for sensitive parts such as aluminum or light alloys, where thermal stress can cause deformation or structural changes.
Immersion paint stripping
Dipping paint removal or immersion paint stripping involves fully immersing components in dedicated tanks. It is a typically industrial solution.
In automotive applications, it is used for:
large volumes of wheels or metal components
serial refurbishment of standardized parts
It ensures uniform treatment even on complex geometries and is often integrated into automated process cycles.
Powder coat removal
Powder coat paint stripping is central to modern automotive manufacturing, where powder coating is widely used.
Typical applications include:
powder-coated alloy wheels
structural or aesthetic components requiring refurbishment
It requires specific processes to remove high-resistance coatings without compromising the metal substrate.
Conclusions
Automotive paint stripping is a critical process for quality, safety and sustainability. The technology must be selected based on material, coating, geometry and target finish to ensure reliable and repeatable results.
ALIT’s response with Fastrip T5 and T5 Multitank immersion systems
The chemical paint stripping process for alloy wheels is one of the most delicate operations in the regeneration of automotive components. By their very nature, alloy wheels require highly controlled and specific processing conditions: when it comes to paint removal, it cannot be reduced to the simple concept of stripping, but must take into account the overall balance between material, geometry and surface treatment.
Alloy wheels are mainly manufactured from aluminum alloys, sometimes with the addition of magnesium or other metals to improve mechanical strength and reduce weight. Compared to steel wheels, they are lighter, offer better heat dissipation and feature greater aesthetic and geometric complexity.
For this reason, surface treatments must be extremely controlled and application specific. Alloy wheels are generally protected by multi layer coating systems (primer, base coat, color and clear coat), do not tolerate aggressive methods such as uncontrolled blasting and require dedicated chemical stripping solutions capable of removing the coating without attacking the metal or generating surface defects.
Immersion paint stripping as a process choice
“Fastrip T5 Multitank” Paint Stripping Plant
Within the scope of this article, chemical immersion paint stripping represents one of the most controllable and effective solutions for alloy wheel treatment. Fastrip T5 and Fastrip T5 Multitank tanks operate according to this principle, allowing wheels to be treated by immersion in dedicated baskets inside a chemical bath specifically formulated for light alloys.
This approach ensures uniform action even on complex geometries and multi layer coatings, reducing the risk of localized attacks or surface defects. The use of a dedicated stripping agent such as the Metalstrip Wheels product line, specifically developed for alloy wheel paint removal, allows selective action on coated surfaces while preserving the characteristics of the metal substrate.
The combination of immersion technology, controlled process management and dedicated chemistry makes this type of system particularly suitable for regeneration and recovery applications in the automotive sector.
Operational sequence of the paint stripping process
The chemical paint stripping process for alloy wheels using T5 and T5 Multitank tanks begins with the definition of the most suitable stripping solution for the specific application. Before starting the treatment, the Metalstrip Wheels product is selected and validated through laboratory tests carried out on samples provided by the customer, in order to adapt the formulation to the type of coating, number of layers and wheel alloy to be treated. Only after this validation phase is the stripping solution used in the industrial process.
Once the correct formulation has been identified, the tank is filled with the stripping solution and started up, bringing the bath to the set operating temperature. The insulated and sealed tank ensures the thermal stability required for effective treatment. Once operating conditions are reached, the wheels are placed inside dedicated baskets and fully immersed in the stripping bath. The tank is then closed and the cycle begins.
“Fastrip T5” tub filled with Metalstrip Wheels paint stripping liquid
During the treatment phase, the combined action of dedicated chemistry, temperature and internal agitation acts selectively on the multi layer coatings, promoting paint detachment without compromising the metal substrate. Cycle duration depends on several factors, including the type of coating, coating thickness, operating temperature and the Metalstrip Wheels formulation used.
Immersion Phase
At the end of the stripping cycle, the basket is removed from the tank and the wheels are free of coating and ready for subsequent rinsing operations. In the Multitank configuration, the basket is handled via a lifting system and immersed in a water filled rinsing tank, representing the first stage of chemical residue removal. This is followed by a draining phase and a final rinse performed using a mobile pump unit, used to remove any more persistent residues and complete surface cleaning. In the base T5 configuration, the process focuses exclusively on the immersion stripping phase, while rinsing and handling operations are managed separately.
Lifting the basket after the end of the paint stripping process in the tank
Advantages of the immersion stripping process
Adopting a chemical immersion paint stripping process using T5 and T5 Multitank tanks provides a range of operational advantages related to process control and stability. Complete immersion of the wheels in the chemical bath ensures uniform action even on complex geometries, reducing the risk of partial or uneven stripping.
Control of process parameters, such as temperature and treatment time, allows the cycle to be adapted to different coating types and wheel configurations, improving result repeatability. The use of dedicated baskets simplifies part handling during loading, treatment and unloading phases, while the integration of rinsing stages in the Multitank configuration enables more orderly and controlled management of post stripping operations.
Overall, the process is compatible with alloy wheel regeneration requirements, reducing the risk of substrate damage and preparing the component for subsequent finishing stages.
Final considerations
Alloy wheel paint stripping requires a structured process approach in which each phase is clearly defined and controlled. The use of immersion systems such as T5 and T5 Multitank makes it possible to address this operation in a way that is consistent with the complexity of the component, integrating dedicated chemistry, parameter control and orderly management of operational phases.
More than simple paint removal, the treatment becomes a technical phase within the regeneration cycle, designed to preserve wheel integrity and ensure repeatable results. In this context, chemical immersion paint stripping confirms itself as a solution aligned with the needs of the automotive sector, where precision, control and process reliability are fundamental requirements.
Paint stripping, also known as paint removal, is an essential process in the metalworking, automotive, and industrial sectors. It removes coatings, paints, or powder layers from metal surfaces, restoring them for reuse or preparing them for a new finishing cycle. This operation plays a key role in maintenance and sustainability, extending the life of metal components and production tools.
Paint stripping is the process of removing paint or coating layers from materials such as steel, aluminum, zinc, or magnesium. While paint stripping and paint removal are often used interchangeably, the difference lies in the method and application:
Paint stripping refers to physical, chemical, or thermal removal of paint;
Paint removal can also include surface preparation or cleaning procedures.
It is a critical step for maintaining hooks, fixtures, and metallic parts used in coating or painting lines.
Benefits and Risks of Paint Stripping
Benefits
Surface recovery and reuse: stripping allows components to be reused, reducing waste and replacement costs.
Preparation for new coating: a properly stripped surface ensures uniform and durable adhesion for the next finishing layer.
Risks
Toxic substances: traditional stripping agents may contain hazardous solvents or vapors if not handled with proper safety systems.
Surface damage: using the wrong method for the material may compromise its structural or aesthetic integrity.
Safety and Ecology
Modern technologies allow safe and eco-friendly paint removal.
Low-impact solutions, free of chlorinated solvents and equipped with fume containment systems, represent the most advanced path for sustainable industry.
Paint Stripping Techniques
Chemical Paint Stripping
Chemical paint removal (or chemical stripping) uses specially formulated products to dissolve paint without damaging the metal substrate. It’s the most common technique for hooks, masking tools, and complex components. 👉 Learn more about chemical paint stripping and its benefits
Thermal paint stripping (or heat stripping) applies high temperatures to carbonize the coating, making removal easier.
Immersion Paint Stripping
Dipping paint removal or immersion paint stripping uses heated tanks to process large batches of components uniformly.
Ultrasonic Paint Stripping
Ultrasonic paint stripping uses high-frequency sound waves to enhance the chemical bath’s efficiency, reducing treatment time.
Fluidized Sand Bed Paint Stripping
Fluidized sand bed paint stripping combines heat and suspended sand to remove cured coatings, effective but suitable only for durable materials.
Powder Coat Paint Stripping
Powder coat paint stripping focuses on removing powder coatings (epoxy, polyester, polyurethane) from metal parts such as frames and wheels.
Paint Stripping on Metals and Coatings
Metals
Metal paint stripping and chemical metal stripping are used on steel, iron, aluminum, zinc, and light alloys. The chemical method is the most precise and controllable. 👉 Guide to metal paint stripping
Alloy wheel stripping or rim paint stripping is widely used in the automotive aftermarket, where the aesthetic finish is crucial. 👉 Techniques for alloy wheel paint stripping
Coatings
Coating stripping applies to polyurethane, epoxy, or polyester coatings, each requiring a customized approach for optimal performance and substrate protection.
Applications and Sectors
Automotive
Automotive paint stripping regenerates frames, rims, and components, ensuring efficiency and safety in production and maintenance.
Industrial
Industrial paint stripping supports maintenance and recovery of structures, machinery, and production lines.
Commercial
Commercial paint stripping is used in furniture manufacturing, design, and light construction industries.
Conclusions
Paint stripping is more than just paint removal, it’s a key technology for productivity, sustainability, and surface quality. Choosing the right method, chemical, thermal, or mechanical, depends on the material, precision required, and desired environmental impact.
The aesthetics of those components have always been a key element in the automotive world. They are the detail that catches the eye and defines a vehicle’s personality. But keeping them flawless requires dedicated solutions, ones that combine care, precision, and tangible results.
After an intensive development phase, ALIT introduces Metalstrip® Wheels: a range of products developed exclusively for alloy wheel stripping. These formulations were created from scratch to meet a clear need, ensuring impeccable surfaces ready for a new life. A direct response to a market where quality and aesthetics are inseparable.
Metalstrip® Wheels is the ideal solution for those seeking reliable, safe, and efficient results. Its formulations are designed to respect the delicacy of the alloys and ensure a clean, repeatable process. With Metalstrip® Wheels, every wheel regains its original beauty, ready to be enhanced once again. It represents ALIT’s ongoing commitment to technologies that combine quality, innovation, and attention to the future.
This launch marks another step forward in our mission: to provide the automotive industry with tools that improve daily processes and meet increasingly complex challenges. With Metalstrip® Wheels, we aim to set a new standard, a reference point for professionals who work with alloy wheels and accept no compromises.
Want to discover the potential of the Metalstrip® Wheels range?
Fill out thecontact form specifying your interest in a customized lab trial based on your needs with Metalstrip Wheels.
We close 2025 with an edition that reflects a year of growth, technical choices and new connections built together with customers and distributors.
Inside the magazine
In this issue we focus on alloy wheel paint stripping: a theme we explore through a real case study, showing what happens in practice when the right technology is chosen. We also introduce Metalstrip Wheels, our new range of stripping products for alloy wheels, designed to deliver greater stability, aesthetic quality and stripping performance. And there’s another important step forward: our new distributor for Australia and New Zealand, marking ALIT’s expansion into a mature, technical and fast-evolving market, strengthening our international presence and local support capabilities.
A year of shared growth
This issue closes a chapter. The feedback from customers and distributors has been crucial: it helped us improve formulas, equipment and processes. UNCOATED continues to be our invitation to talk about real work, to share questions, results and visions that help an entire sector grow.
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