[Boatanchors] White Powder?

[J. Forster]

It's likely some Zinc or Cadmium  compound. The steel parts were likely plated
and exposure to the atmosphere has degraded the coating over the years. I would
wash my hands after handling it and before eating.

I've had some luck using a dip silver cleaner (containing acidified thiourea) to
clean it off, BUT you must rinse it well with plenty of water. Also, you might
try wiping the surface with a light oil soaked rag, letting it sit for a few
minutes , and then wiping it dry.

Good luck,
-John

Philip Atchley wrote:

> Hi,
>
> Right now I'm working on a Precision E-200C signal generator.  Upon opening
> the unit up I discovered that much of the metal in the unit is coated with a
> white "powder". (No, the owner's not a druggie ;-) The frame of the tuning
> capacitor has a VERY thick coating of said powder while the pilot lamp, tube
> socket saddle and internal chassis has lesser amounts.  None of the aluminum
> or copper surfaces seem to be polluted in this way.
>
> Ideas? Is it hazardous?Best way to clean it off?
>
> I'm putting it back in it's case until I figure out how to handle it.
>
> 73 de Phil,  KO6BB