Electrolysis rust removal

[Will]

Anybody tried using electrolysis for removing rust to restore old woodworking hand tools? Got several planes and whatnot from my grandfather and would love to restore them if possible.

[Larry Buskirk]

Hi Will, I use the electrolysis method for cleaning up my "Old Delta Machines"

 

It sure is a work saver.

 

Here's a couple of before/after shots of a Drill Press head casting.

 

 

 

 

This head took a bit longer than normal to clean as I suspect it came out of a metal working shop.

 

 

 

 

It took about 20 hours in "The Tank" to get it that clean.

I'm using a 25 Amp charger from one of those battery back up sump pumps, with a car battery in the circuit.

The charger was a freebie from my neighbor, and makes a big difference compared to my old 6 Amp charger.

 

 

 

 

 

 

That is my small parts cleaning tank.

The same neighbor just gave me a big orange plastic laundry cart on wheels which will probably fit a complete Uni-Saw.

 

Larry

 

 

Old Woodworking Machinery Forum Host

 

[John Morris]

Great tip Larry!

[oldwoodie]

I've used it on several different tools, and it worked great! I also have a sandblast cabinet, and it has done well also.

[Dadio]

43 minutes ago, oldwoodie said:

I've used it on several different tools, and it worked great! I also have a sandblast cabinet, and it has done well also.

I am wondering what is the best amperage to use. I have a couple of battery chargers that charge 15 amp max, and have a 50 amp. booster. I would hesitate to use the 50 amp. for any long term usage. 

What are your thoughts on this?

 

Herb

[HandyDan]

I'd go with the 15 amps.  I know the old transformer based chargers are recommended for use.  Not sure if new electronic chargers will work.

[Cal]

I done a project using this method a few years ago.  Seems like I used the trickle charge setting.  If it makes any difference I was cleaning up sheet metal, several old rusty tool boxes.

[Grandpadave52]

@Will...for small tools like planes, squares etc. I've been using Evap-O-Rust. A little pricey, but lasts a long time if you keep the deposits poured off. However, if you're looking to completely remove the paint (or japanning on planes), Evap-O-Rust does not do that. It is non-toxic and environmentally "green." If only wiped off and allowed to dry it also will leave a protective coat on the metal minimizing rust for ~6 mo.

 

Electrolysis cleaned parts are very susceptible to flash rust if not treated or painted almost immediately. Another alternative is plain 'ole white vinegar. Just don't leave the cast iron/steel parts in it for months on end. Don't ask me how I know this. My $.02.

[Gerald]

14 hours ago, Grandpadave52 said:

@Will...for small tools like planes, squares etc. I've been using Evap-O-Rust. A little pricey, but lasts a long time if you keep the deposits poured off. However, if you're looking to completely remove the paint (or japanning on planes), Evap-O-Rust does not do that. It is non-toxic and environmentally "green." If only wiped off and allowed to dry it also will leave a protective coat on the metal minimizing rust for ~6 mo.

 

Electrolysis cleaned parts are very susceptible to flash rust if not treated or painted almost immediately. Another alternative is plain 'ole white vinegar. Just don't leave the cast iron/steel parts in it for months on end. Don't ask me how I know this. My $.02.

I use apple cider vinegar and if you leave it too long eats the metal too.

[Grandpadave52]

20 minutes ago, Gerald said:

I use apple cider vinegar and if you leave it too long eats the metal too.

Yes it does...I had some small cast iron parts that just disappeared

[Kevin Beitz]

I use it all the time for my junkyard junk... If you reverse the wires and dump in some Copper sulfate, otherwise known as bluestone, you then can put a plating of copper on your junk yard junk...