Using electrolysis to remove rust

[bandersen]

I was inspired by PredictaNoob to try electrolysis rust removal on an Admiral HV cover.

Here's the rusty, painted cover.


First, I removed the paint using Citri-Strip. Then, mixed up a bucket of electrolyte. I'm using Arm & Hammer washing powder (Sodium Carbonate) and about an amp of current. The positive lead is connected to a sacrificial cold chisel. The negative lead is clipped to the cover.


I let it run overnight and it worked out very well


Finally, a little black satin enamel paint.


It's a messy slow process, but it does work well. I think I'll stick with Naval Jelly for small parts and smaller patches of rust and use this technique for really rusty parts that are easily submersible.

[pugs5061]

That is kinda neat. I have teenagers though and rest assured they woud spill the electrolyte, scratch the parts and finish up by shorting out the power supply! Then would come the denials and refusals to clean up the mess.
Back to the subject, what do you think this would do to pitted chrome? I have some handlebars for an old Bridgestone motorcycle and when I had the inclination I was going to sand them down and replate them. Do you think this process could help in some way?

[bandersen]

LOL. Unfortunately, I don't think it would. A common technique for chrome seems to be steel wool (sandpaper for really rusted areas) and chrome polish.

[jeyurkon]

I used that technique for the Silvertone metal midget I restored. It does work great. Some people use salt for the electrolyte, but to me that's asking for more rust. The washing soda works great.

That cover looks great too!

John

[bandersen]

Originally Posted by jeyurkon

I used that technique for the Silvertone metal midget I restored. It does work great. Some people use salt for the electrolyte, but to me that's asking for more rust. The washing soda works great.

That cover looks great too!

John

Thanks. Probably no one will ever see it again, but I just can't stand rusty parts

I was going to use salt (NaCl) until I read that it can generate chlorine gas

[batterymaker]

GORGEOUS!

I'll have to remember that technique for thoroughly rusted chassis.

[bandersen]

Thanks! I forgot to mention that I used an HP 6228B DC power supply running at about 6 volts @ 1 amp.

[jeyurkon]

There are dozens of sites that describe the eletrolytic rust removal process. Here's one: http://www.antiquewireless.org/otb/resto1007.htm

John

[Findm-Keepm]

Check out the pool chemical section at Walmart - I got my powdered Sodium Carbonate there, and transferred it to a tupperware container so that SWMBO wouldn't use it in the pool or spa.

I used electrolysis to clean rust off of a Masco Amp cover and also to remove corrosion off some bike parts. I used a HP 6255a Rack mount monster - current regulation is a must!

Cheers,

[Reece]

I've used this method, too. It seems to me I read that lower current works better? Although that cover came out great, Bob. Also, as nasty as the "juice" gets, you can keep using it and it will keep on working.