Removing Rust

This rust looks suspiciously like finger prints!

Working in humid climates is tough on steel tools. Despite checking for rust and oiling tools once a week, some tools still end up with light surface rust. Frequent handling, damp metal, and pickle splashes can all cause rust in addition to the moisture in the air. Depending on the extent of the rust, removal may take some serious work. Recent rust stains should come off without resorting to sanding. If significant rust is allowed to build up, deep pits can form, ruining tools. Set aside time once a week to evaluate the condition of your tools, this will save you time and money.

Scrubbing!

You may notice a number of dents in this vise. This particular tool is located in a room where inexperienced students often work. Over each break, the staff here spends a great deal of time refinishing tools.

The accessories needed to clean off rust include WD-40, a scuffing pad, and some paper towel. Apply a small amount of the WD-40 to the rusty area and scrub at it with the scuffing pad. The studio I work at uses Scotch-Brite Clear Blend Prep Scuff 07745, which work quite well. The pad will get oily during this process, so it is helpful to cut them into smaller squares.

Wiping all the rust and dirt off. I wear gloves to keep my hands clean. It’s difficult to get WD-40 out from under my nails!

With a bit of scrubbing, most of the rust will come off. Wipe the surface with a paper towel to ensure full removal of the stain. Repeat the scrubbing with more WD-40 if needed. Once the corrosion is removed, clean off the dirty oil thoroughly with paper towel.

There is a shadow on the steel where the rust used to be. This will come out when we take care of the dents.

To maintain a rust-free surface, apply a light coat of clean oil with a fresh paper towel. The more often the tool is handled, the more frequently it should be oiled.

Sometimes a faint shadow remains where the rust used to be. I assume this will continue to rust over time, but the regular application of oil seems to halt the process.