[modeleng] Re: Rust Removal
- From: "alanjstepney" <alan@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>
- To: <modeleng@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>
- Date: Sun, 9 Jan 2005 18:12:53 -0000
I advocate using stainless and do so myself.
The piece I use is some 18" x 4" by 1/16" thick.
So far it has lasted about 20 years, and shows no sign that it will not last
at least as long again.
In fact, I would lay bets that it will outlast me.
I don't throw away the water + soda+ rust+paint mix, frequently. In fact,
the present batch has been stewing nicely (and intermittently) for a couple
of years.
Yes, there might be some harmful residue, but with the amounts that most of
us use, they are minimal.
In my case, less than 4.5 cubic inches in 40 years or longer.
I wont worry about it.
alan@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
www.alanstepney.info
Model Engineering, Steam Engine, and Railway technical pages.
----- Original Message -----
From: "Lee Grant" <leegrant@xxxxxxxxxx>
To: <modeleng@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>
Sent: Sunday, January 09, 2005 11:18 AM
Subject: [modeleng] Rust Removal
A while back we had a discussion on rust removal using electrolysis with
stainless steel being used as the anode. I Just found this on
http://antique-engines.com/electrol.asp
Lee
Why you should not use stainless steel electrodes for electrolysis
Many people using the electrolysis method for rust reduction swear by
stainless steel, stating (incorrectly) that it's not consumed, stays clean
and seems safe.
Stainless steel is indeed consumed when used in the electrolysis process,
although slowly. The main problem with using it is the hazardous waste it
produces. Stainless steel contains chromium. The electrodes, and thus the
chromium is consumed, and you end up with poisonous chromates in your
electrolyte. Dumping these on the ground or down the drain is illegal. The
compounds can cause severe skin problems and ultimately, cancer. Hexavalent
chromate is poisonous. These compounds are not excused from hazardous waste
regulations where household wastes are.
These compounds are bad enough that government regulations mandate
"elimination of hexavalent chromate by 2007 for corrosion protection."
Does your electrolyte turn yellow? That's a sign of chromates.
If you have been using stainless steel for the anodes (positive electrodes),
wear rubber gloves when working with or near the liquids. If you need to
dispose of it, allow it to evaporate into powders and dispose of the powders
in sealed containers during your local "hazardous waste clean-up days".
Best bet - don't use stainless steel no matter how tempting it is.
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