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Old file

PostPosted: 07 Oct 2016, 21:54
by Wizard9999
I'm in the process of having a bit of a clear out at the moment. I came across a big old file today, easy enough to put a new handle on it but it is also quite rusty, not crazy caked in the stuff but rusty all the same. Obviously I can't do a Wallace and grind the heck out of it and make it shiney, not if I want to use it as a file anyway, but is there any sensible way to bring it back to life?

Terry.

Re: Old file

PostPosted: 07 Oct 2016, 22:46
by Robert
The easiest option is to just buff it with a wire brush. it doesn't have to look pretty to work.

I'd check it is still sharp though by actually filing something with it. if someone has filed away at something hardened it could be burred up and useless.

Re: Old file

PostPosted: 07 Oct 2016, 22:51
by 9fingers
You can also do the electrolytic de-rust process after wire brushing.

The rust will possibly have pitted the cutting edges but it might still work. Otherwise save it as a base to grind up a special lathe tool for some job in the future.

Bob

Re: Old file

PostPosted: 07 Oct 2016, 23:19
by Wizard9999
Thanks both, I'll give it a go with wire brush and see how it works after that before spending too much ime on it.

Terry.

Re: Old file

PostPosted: 08 Oct 2016, 10:58
by Wizard9999
I saw a couple of online references to using various acids to clean files, they even suggested that using them will re sharpen the file (not sure I understand how). But the idea of using acid that every says you have to wear a hazmat suit to touch does not appeal. I have also seen reference to using diluted (50%) distilled vinegar to remove rust, so was thinking about giving that a go.

Anyone got any experience of using diluted distilled vinegar to remove rust?

Terry.

Re: Old file

PostPosted: 08 Oct 2016, 17:01
by Dan0741
Terry I bought an old school issue set square from a reclaim yard recently and used the vinegar trick - worked brilliantly. Clearly wont resolve rust pitting but not too important on a file. Make sure all is submerged and then wait for 48 hrs, then wire brush and do it again until clean and rust free. Prob 2 dunkings required. I use the clear stuff from tesco. Use rubber gloves and do it in the open air. ;)

PS I didnt dilute, Im guessing it comes diluted to a certain degree?

Re: Old file

PostPosted: 08 Oct 2016, 20:24
by 9fingers
Culinary Acetic acid AKA white vinegar is usually sold at 6% concentration.

Bob

Re: Old file

PostPosted: 26 Nov 2016, 16:43
by Commander
Any idea if the vinegar trick would work on my newly rusted hand plains?

Re: Old file

PostPosted: 26 Nov 2016, 16:49
by Tusses
Commander wrote:Any idea if the vinegar trick would work on my newly rusted hand plains?


try it ?

I like Jelonite as something to keep in the shop. Don't know if you can get it there ?

I've always wanted to try the electrolytic process too .. just never got round to trying it.
You just need a bucket, and a car battery charger .


Image

Re: Old file

PostPosted: 26 Nov 2016, 18:35
by Wizard9999
Commander wrote:Any idea if the vinegar trick would work on my newly rusted hand plains?


I can't see why not, it worked a treat on a whole bunch of old files I found. Need to get around to getting a few new handles now.

Terry.

Re: Old file

PostPosted: 26 Nov 2016, 21:32
by Rod
Jenolite's main ingredient is Phosphoric Acid which is the main ingredient of Milkstone Remover.
Much cheaper and readily available from Agricultural Suppliers. 5lts for about £15.

Rod

Re: Old file

PostPosted: 26 Nov 2016, 23:32
by Tusses
Rod wrote:Jenolite's main ingredient is Phosphoric Acid which is the main ingredient of Milkstone Remover.
Much cheaper and readily available from Agricultural Suppliers. 5lts for about £15.

Rod


Filed in the grey cell data bank ! .. Thanks Rod

Re: Old file

PostPosted: 29 Nov 2016, 05:39
by Commander
Thanks guys! I will see what I can get my hands on over here and give it a try! :D

Re: Old file

PostPosted: 29 Nov 2016, 12:19
by Tusses
most "Cola" .. yes coca cola .. has phosphoric acid in it.
it's a very weak solution, but people do use it to clean rust/chrome bumpers/jewelery etc.

use full strength .. not the diet stuf ! :D

Re: Old file

PostPosted: 29 Nov 2016, 13:05
by Rod
The Milkstone Remover is used (diluted) by the diary industry to remove scale etc from the milk pumping machines, pipe lines, tankers etc.

Rod