Removing Rust with Electrolysis

It’s always a challenge to remove rust, especially from hard-to-reach places, and the challenge becomes even greater if the job requires that rust must be removed without affecting the bluing on the rest of the firearm. But there is a relatively simple way to do it using a process known as electrolysis. Awhile ago, I purchased an M1911type .45 automatic that on the outside looked to be in great condition. When I took it apart, however, I found the inside of the frame was covered with a patina of surface rust.

This gun was obviously stored somewhere in a humid environment for a very long time. Normally, the easiest way to remove surface rust is with fine steel wool and gun oil. But this method wouldn’t allow me to get into all the crevices of the frame. Then I remembered reading an article about removing rust with electrolysis, and I decided to give it a try. Materials The items you’ll need for a rust-removal project include a plastic container that will hold the part and the electrolyte solution.

A five-gallon bucket will work great for small parts. For the electrode, you’ll need a steel rod. Use plain old mild steel, not galvanized (zinc-plated) steel, and don’t use stainless steel (which will produce harmful by-products). You’ll also need some clean water, and a box of Arm & Hammer Washing Soda’not baking soda. Arm & Hammer Washing Soda is a pro ight Co. Inc. Princeton, NJ it in your local grocery store on the shelves with the laundry detergents.

If you can’t find washing soda, you can pour some baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) into a pan and heat it over low-to-medium heat. Water vapor and carbon dioxide will cook off, leaving washing soda (sodium carbonate). In addition, you’ll need an automotive-type battery charger or other high-amperage power supply, as well as an assortment of O-rings or heatshrink tubing.

Cautions Always wear safety glasses and rubber gloves when working with this solution, as it is very alkaline and can cause skin and eye irritation. And again, don’t use stainless steel for the electrode or you will be producing some dangerous gases. The electrolysis process breaks water down into its component parts, hydrogen and oxygen, which together can be explosive, so work outside or in a very well ventilated area.

As a final caution, be sure your battery charger or power supply is unplugged before attaching or touching the leads. Directions In the container, dissolve a tablespoon of washing soda in each gallon of water to make up the electrolyte solution. Be sure the washing soda is thoroughly dissolved. Place the mildsteel rod through the part to be cleaned. Use O-rings or heat-shrink tubing to prevent the part from touching the rod.

For large parts, place numerous rods around the inside of your con- Here, the O-rings were used to prevent the steel rod from touching the part being cleaned. The bucket shown was originally filled with kitty litter. If you don’t have a cat, you could use the litter to fill shooting bags.