A single-component metal repair and patching compound that requires no mixing, applies easily, can be sanded, powder coated and baked or simply painted is available from Alvin Products a division of Dampney Co. Inc. (www.dampney.com).

Lab-Metal Repair and Patching Compound is a metal filler that repairs dents and voids, smoothes weld beads, and hides cracks and other surface blemishes or imperfections on cast or stamped metal parts. Good for preparing parts to be powder coated, this one-component filler applies with a putty knife, air dries, can be sanded, and then sprayed and baked in a curing oven.

The compound adheres to any metallic surface providing an effective method for making cosmetic repairs prior to metal finishing. It is ready to use right out of the can and, once hardened, it can be milled, drilled, tapped, machined, sanded, coated, and baked at 425 F for 20 minutes.

Lab-Metal Repair and Patching Compound is available in 6-oz., 12-oz., 24-oz., and 48-oz. cans, 1- and 5-gallon pails, and caulking tubes.

Also available is the Hi-Temp Lab-Metal version that withstands 1,000-F temperatures.