[Boatanchors] white dust on aluminum

[Al Parker]

Hi John,
	I spent my life in the aluminum business, but in making it, not using 
it.  Anyhow, picked up a few pointers along the way, maybe.  IIRC, a 
cream of tartar paste will remove that oxidation.  Might not make it 
bright and shiny, but I think will get the crud off.  Don't ask me how 
to apply it in your case.
	An off the topic tip, if you're painting bare aluminum, once the metal 
is cleaned of grease/oil, etc., give it a rinse of a slightly acid 
soulion, like plain old vinegar, then rinse with distilled water, and 
dry, before painting.  Paint likes to stick to a slightly toothy surface.
73,

Al, W8UT
www.boatanchors.org
www.hammarlund.info

"There is nothing -- absolutely nothing -- half so much
worth doing as simply messing about in boats"
Ratty, to Mole

On 6/9/2011 5:42 PM, John King wrote:
> I have a piece of  equipment in an aluminum case that has been in a very humid
> environment and was sweating due to condensation  in the shipping crate. The
> instrument case has suffered from the condensate.
>
>
> The aluminum, after drying, has a coat of aluminum dust or powder that needs to
> be removed. It is a very valuable instrument and can be very useful in the shop
> and shack.
>
> If anyone can tell me how to remove the white powder that I believe to be
> oxidation, I will greatly appreciate it. Chemistry was not my strong subject.
> Come to think of it, I don't think I had a strong subject.
>
> Assisting with your chemical expertise will be appreciated. 73, John, K5PGW
>
> ________________________________________