[TheForge] electrolitic rust removal formula that works

[Reynolds]

1)	Borrow or buy a car battery charger. I use a 4 amp charger without variable charging rate.
2)	Locate a large container able to hold 1-2 gallons of tap water. I use a large ceramic salad bowl. (Container cannot conduct electricity). If the piece you are attempting to clean is very large, build frame out of 2x6 and lay polyethylene in the bottom, over this frame. 
3)	Fill to near rim with tap water. Add a handful of Sodium Carbonate (Arm & Hammer washing powder.)
4)	Attach the negative lead of charger to item to be cleaned.
5)	Attach the positive lead to the sacrificial piece of steel (anode).
6)	Plug charger in, or turn on, whichever applies. Caution: if you have a cut on your hand and stick your hand into water you will get a tingle shock, but it is not threatening.
7)	Leave piece to clean. Check every 4-6 hours to achieve the degree of deoxidization you desire. You can pull piece out before it is completely cleaned to achieve a distressed look. From the point of attachment of negative lead to the piece, it will bubble a steady stream of bubbles . Water will turn an iron oxide color and foam will form on surface of water. 
8)	Make sure the anode and the piece to be cleaned are not touching. (WARNING: if you reverse the polarity you will wind up with a nice clean anode and a really rusty work piece.)

When removing piece from water check to see if nodules (if they exist) will break off. If they do not, keep zapping. The piece may reveal pits that have been caused by rust over time. That is natural. This process DOES NOT TAKE OFF ANY NON-OXIDIZED METAL. It only removes rust.

I have been using this method for cleaning for years. Specifically, I use it to deoxidize Roman era and Medieval arrow points and crossbow bolts. Items retain the gray-black look of old wrought iron (or steel) and do not take on a polished finish. 

Reynolds Cushman



_______________________________________________
Join Excite! - http://www.excite.com
The most personalized portal on the Web!