Rusty marks on the metal appear due to the reaction of iron with oxygen when the metal product is in a humid environment. Cleaning metal surfaces from rust is a rather laborious process, especially if a large area of the product has undergone corrosion. You can remove rust scale from an iron part using specially formulated compounds or improvised means.
Handy rust removers
Rusty brown spots on the iron surface not only make the product unsightly in appearance, but also have a destructive effect, trying to turn durable shiny metal into flakes. It is worth leaving wet baking sheets, pans, cutlery, as they immediately fall under the sight of the "red enemy". Experienced housewives know what improvised substances can cope with this serious problem. Here are some of them.
- Vinegar
A product affected by corrosion is placed in a container with 9% vinegar and left for 10-15 hours, after which the remaining dirt is removed with a stiff brush, washed with running water and wiped dry.
If the product is too bulky and it is impossible to completely soak it, vinegar is applied with a brush or sprayed with a spray gun.
- Soda
A handful of baking soda is poured into a bowl and diluted with water until a thick slurry is obtained. Using a sponge or brush, coat the rusted part with the prepared product and leave it for half an hour, after which it is thoroughly cleaned with an iron washcloth or brush, washed with water and wiped dry.
- Salt and potatoes
To remove fresh rust stains, many use salt and potato tubers cut in half. The potato contains oxalic acid, which will corrode plaque, and salt acts as an abrasive.
The cleaning process is incredibly simple. The potato slice is sprinkled with salt and rubbed onto a metal product, such as a knife or baking sheet, until rusty marks disappear.
- Kerosene
The most famous substance that allows you to quickly remove rusty smudges. The damaged surface of the part is cleaned with a metal brush, wrapped in a rag soaked in kerosene, and left for 2-3 hours.
- Fish fat
If fish oil is found on the farm, it can be used to solve rust problems. Thanks to this tool, the surface will not only get rid of corrosion, but will also gain protection in the form of a thin grease film remaining after applying fat. The cleaning method is similar to those described above: the affected area is coated with fish oil, left for 2-3 hours, after which the remaining rust is cleaned.
Inquisitive housewives have revealed a host of substances that can remove rusty stains and restore the appearance of a metal product. It turns out that tomato ketchup, Coca-Cola, and even some medications, such as Alka-Seltzer or aspirin, do an excellent job. The main thing is to thoroughly dry the surface after cleaning, and each time after use, wipe the iron objects dry and store them in a dry place.
Industrial Rust Remedies
Those who are not used to trusting improvised home remedies and doubting their effectiveness should pay attention to specially developed industrial solvents and rust converters, which are presented in large quantities on the shelves of construction supermarkets and car dealers. Such drugs operate according to one principle: the composition enters into a chemical reaction with rust, converting it into a dense black or dark blue coating, which can then be painted. In addition, the converters neutralize substances that stimulate corrosion processes.
All compounds used to combat rust contain salts and acids and are hazardous to health. Work with such drugs should be in gloves, gauze bandage and goggles.
The most popular rust converters are described below, as well as their main advantages and disadvantages.
Tsinkar
Highly effective domestic preparation against rust stains is especially good at cleaning steel surfaces. Released for the first time a quarter of a century ago, Tsinkar is still appreciated by customers. The tool quickly prevents corrosion processes of any complexity. The main active substances are phosphoric acid, zinc and manganese salts. The function of the converter is to remove the old rusted metal layer and create a film that protects against moisture.
affordable cost
evenly distributed on the surface
in aerosol form, the product is applicable in hard to reach places
fire safety
Rust Treatment No-Rust
Anticorrosive aerosols are produced by the American company Hi-Gear. With this composition, it will be possible to easily deal with the manifestations of rust on any surface, including heating and water pipes. A thin film is formed on the metal surface, completely stopping the destructive processes.
drug quality
convenient use
strong connection with metal
creates a protective layer
can only be bought at car dealerships
LAVR LN1435
This low-cost rust converter will easily deal with brown spots and sagging even with severe damage to a vast area of an iron product. The LN1435 tool will help to unscrew the "attached" bolts and nuts. The formula does not contain aggressive acids, so the metal structure will remain unchanged.
inexpensive tool from a domestic manufacturer
no aggressive acids
increases durability of connection with a primer
effective in loosening rusted bolts
Do not allow live wires
Dinitrol rc-800
Rust converter, which will remove corrosion in a small area, for example, with chipped paint or around an attached bolt. In the formula of the substance there are no inorganic solvents, therefore, the product is not harmful to human health.
quick cleaning
no flushing required
does not require thorough preparation before processing
low volume
high price
Before buying a drug against rust, you need to familiarize yourself with its composition and instructions, in which the manufacturer usually indicates which surfaces the converter or cleaner is intended for and in what sequence to carry out the work.
Which tool is better to use to combat rust - homemade or purchased?
It is good when at home there is at least one inexpensive industrial product - aerosol or liquid. In this case, of course, it is better to process the product with a purchased product. If the converter was not at hand, you will have to use folk remedies.
How to protect metal products from corrosion?
The most affordable and effective way to protect an iron product from corrosion and rust is by applying a special primer coating and painting metal parts. Rust primers contain inhibitors and additives that can be applied without prior cleaning.
So, there are two ways to remove rust from the surface: simply dissolve and clean off the traces of corrosion or chemically convert the rust coating into a protective layer. Of course, the second option is more effective. But if red spots appeared on dishes or cutlery, it is better to use safe folk remedies.