How can markings on PVC pipe be removed?

Question

I am making a cart out of pvc pipe and want to remove the markings that are on the side of the pipes from the manufacture

Answer 1

If cleaning won't work there is a spray paint for plastic. I think it is called Fusion.

Answer 2

plumbing sand paper/cloth will remove most markings and stains if its white as with schedule 40 pvc but gray schedule 80 might be a problem

Answer 3

Acetone will wipe it right off.

Answer 4

krud kutter you can get it a kmart it is a spray and it takes out everything It is the best stain remover I have ever tried it even removes wallpaper

Answer 5

1. Dab a little powdered cleanser (like Comet or Ajax) onto a green nylon scouring pad (or use a Brillo/SOS pad), dampen and simply rub off the markings. Rinse. This method also cleans off most any other marks and dirt. Sometimes this works OK, sometimes not. It depends on ink ingredients.

Tip: I usually cut the various lengths of pipe for my project first, then clean off the markings with Comet or whatever. It's easier, less cumbersome.

2. For stubborn marks you may want to try this:

• Get a small chunk of 000 or 0000 steel wool, soak it in acetone and simply begin rubbing off the marks.

• Don't clean the whole pipe at once. Do it in short sections of 2 or 3 feet. Acetone dries quickly and the marking dye tends to smear.

• Wipe off with an old white rag BEFORE the acetone dries.

• Change the steel wool after cleaning about 10 feet of pipe.

CAUTION: Be sure to wear rubber gloves and an eye shield, and follow the directions on the acetone container. Work in a well ventilated area.

3. Sand the markings with 80-grit sandpaper. (This will, of course, rough-up the pipe a bit. So it's up to you, depends on what your project is.)

     And finally, in my opinion, the best and easiest way is to...

4. Use a low-cost sanding pad. Get the medium grit on one side/fine grit on the other. You’ll find them at most any hardware store.

     The nice thing about a sanding pad is it conforms to the pipe’s contour and will quickly remove markings with light pressure. What’s more, they’re long lasting. To me, this is much better and easier than fooling around with acetone or cleaning agents. In addition, light sanding is best for good paint adhesion.

     One more thing. I’ve tried 3M’s Washable SandBlaster Coarse (36) Sanding Sponge for stripping paint. So far, after several uses, it’s working pretty well.

5. I've been told that blue lettering can be removed with carburetor cleaner. I've not tried that method.

6. Removing the markings with lacquer thinner has been suggested as a method. Again, I've not tried it.

Answer 6

The markings can be removed.  You can use either pvc cleaner or acetone.  The cleaner is sold at any home improvement store by the pvc glues (usually a yellow can).  The acetone will probably be in the paint department.  Both of these will remove the lettering but it will take some time and degloss your pipe as well.  They will make the lettering bleed so be ready with some towels or wipes or you may spread the coloring and make your job harder.