Re: [CR]Was Al anodizing, now Fe rust removal

(Example: Framebuilders:Richard Moon)

From: "Charlie Young" <youngc@netreach.net>
To: classicrendezvous@bikelist.org
Subject: Re: [CR]Was Al anodizing, now Fe rust removal
Date: Wed, 19 Feb 2003 13:18:26 -0500

Craig et al.

If I remember correctly, Naval Jelly is a formulation with phosphoric acid as the primary active ingredient. The way that this treatment works is to convert the iron oxide (rust) to iron phosphate. I don't think that iron phosphate is a very durable conversion coating unless it is subsequently topcoated with primer or some other organic coating. Doubt that it would do any damage to surrounding chromium plated areas because phosphoric acid is a weak acid. Wouldn't hurt to neutralize any chromed areas that the naval jelly contacts just to be safe by wiping them with a solution of baking soda in water after the naval jelly has had time to work its magic on the rusted areas.

Note that the iron phosphate will appear black instead of a red (rust) color. Polishing the entire piece after the application will more than likely remove the iron phosphate layer and leave you with bare steel again.

Charlie "better living through chemistry, maybe" Young Honeybrook, PA
> The problem, ferrous metal corrosion on various plated
> brake caliper bits, ie. the quick release levers and arch
> springs. The concave surfaces have quite a bit of
> "surface" rust and the flat sections are peppered with
> several corrosion craters.
>
> Is it safe to use a solution such as {NAVAL JELLY} prior
> to using a polishing compound?
> Suggestions on removing the rust while not stripping the
> remaining plating would be appreciated.
> Thanks for your help
> Craig
>
> craig g. fenstermaker
> c/o cryocor inc.
> 9717 pacific heights blvd.
> san diego, ca 92121
> 858.909.2209 voice
> 858.909.2230 fax
>
> _______________________________________________
>

Charlie Young
Honeybrook, PA