ELECTROLYSIS RUST REMOVAL
An easy and relatively safe method of rust removal
is the use of electrolysis. It involves a few common items that
can be scrounged or bought quite cheaply.
Parts needed:
- water
- washing soda (sodium carbonate)
- a battery charger (with a current meter if
possible) or a car battery
- steel or iron electrode (I use rebar as it's
cheap and the anode will eventually be eaten away)
- a plastic tub (slightly larger than
the part to be cleaned, although it is possible to clean a part
with some of it sticking above the solution and then rotating
it to clean the rest it may leave a small mark or discoloration
which is undesirable)
Visit these web site for more info
http://antique-engines.com/electrol.asp
http://www.rickswoodshopcreations.com/Miscellaneous/Rust_Removal.htm
**Caution** Hydrogen gas reacts explosively with
oxygen (in the presence of heat) to produce water vapor. Take Michael
Sullivan's advise seriously about shutting down the power before
adjusting/removing the electrodes.
If you are using electrolysis to remove rust...and
have a considerable broth of bubbles...be very cautious. That broth
is not the place to discard a glowing cigarette ember, lit match...or
any other spark. Be warned...!!
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