[TheForge] pipe cleaning

[James Binnion]

On Jul 31, 2011, at 9:25 AM, Cindy and James wrote:

> Some pipe (tubing especially) & steel comes new with a greasy or other 
> coating to resist rusting.  You can't even go close to it w/o getting 
> nasty.  King Arch sells much of their stuff with such on it and they 
> advertise washing w/ Simple Green to pre-clean.  My local iron 
> supplier's steel comes with everything from rust to who knows what on 
> it, but whatever it is won't simply wash off with water and soap.  Black 
> iron pipe may also just be greasy.  In the case of one of these type 
> coatings, it would be helpful to degrease before working, then sandblast 
> after the project is complete.
> 
>  I've used lacquer thinner, acetone, hot water high pressure washer, 
> xylene, you name it, to get the metal somewhat clean to start a 
> project.  None are cheap, all labor intensive, and some are downright 
> unhealthy to your skin and lungs.  Some mention citric, vinegar, etc.  I 
> haven't tried them for cleaning but suspect they would work too but 
> maybe not as quickly as the more hazardous stuff.
> 
> There are some pipe sanders on the market that would abrasively clean 
> pipe and are designed for round tubular surfaces.  While pricey, they 
> likely would work ok.  Google "pipe sander" and see what you get.  I've 
> never been able to  justify buying one but would not hesitate to do so 
> given an adequate return on the investment.
> 
> I do however LOVE sandblasting because I take my stuff to a commercial 
> blaster and let him do it.  He's set up for it, doesn't charge much, 
> does a good job and the stuff is ready to finish via whatever method you 
> desire.
> 
> James
> Paris, TX
>> 
>> 
>> Today's Topics:
>> 
>>    1. Re: black pipe (Dave Mudge)
>> 
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James Binnion
jbin at well.com