Rusty Bike- Electrolysis Rust Removal & Nickel Plating?
12-30-21, 02:47 PM
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Rusty Bike- Electrolysis Rust Removal & Nickel Plating?
I was wondering if anyone has used electrolysis rust removal on bike parts to restore an older bike? I've seen chemicals you can buy that cost a lot of money or the aluminum + vinegar scrubbing method.
Electrolysis only requires salt, water, some wires, and a battery. Then you wash and voila, rust is gone without scrubbing the rust off. Then using electrolysis again, you can plate your metal with nickel or zinc so it doesn't rust.
I've seen people use this technique on vintage metal things, but not on bikes. I'm curious if any of y'all have experience trying this method for bikes or any tips.
Electrolysis only requires salt, water, some wires, and a battery. Then you wash and voila, rust is gone without scrubbing the rust off. Then using electrolysis again, you can plate your metal with nickel or zinc so it doesn't rust.
I've seen people use this technique on vintage metal things, but not on bikes. I'm curious if any of y'all have experience trying this method for bikes or any tips.
12-30-21, 03:05 PM
#2
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Apparently you don't even need a tank?
You need to prep the surface to 'super smooth" prior to plating, so what's the point in dipping a frame in a SALT SOLUTION when you need mechanical means anyway?
You need to prep the surface to 'super smooth" prior to plating, so what's the point in dipping a frame in a SALT SOLUTION when you need mechanical means anyway?
12-30-21, 10:39 PM
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You use washing soda/soda ash/sodium carbonate not salt for electrolysis rust removal.
generally rebar or other sacrificial steel for the anode.
Tank can be any non metallic container or for large items kiddie pool or wood frame and plastic sheeting,
You're going to want to use a battery charger not a battery.
You don't see it on bikes much because if the rust is that bad the frame is usually going to be junk. Mostly gets used on heavier thicker items, not thin wall bicycle tubing
generally rebar or other sacrificial steel for the anode.
Tank can be any non metallic container or for large items kiddie pool or wood frame and plastic sheeting,
You're going to want to use a battery charger not a battery.
You don't see it on bikes much because if the rust is that bad the frame is usually going to be junk. Mostly gets used on heavier thicker items, not thin wall bicycle tubing
Last edited by dedhed; 12-30-21 at 10:42 PM.
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01-08-22, 07:18 PM
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Carcinogenic chromium hexavalent.........
01-13-22, 09:28 PM
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I am with Bill. Under the rust is a rough, porous steel surface. Unless you get the electrolytically reduced surface super-smooth, pore-free, and clean, it's going to look like crap and rust almost instantly, even after electroplating. Patience, attention to detail, and lots of careful sanding and filling are still the most important tools in doing a restoration of anything steel that will look good and last. I really have to admire people who restore old bikes, motorbikes, cars, planes, etc. but to tell the truth, I would rather be riding, making or refinishing something in wood, or playing with my trains.
oldschoolbike
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01-13-22, 11:47 PM
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Is Electrolysis better than Evapo-Rust? Let's find out!
Looks like it would work great. Just need to find something bike enough for your bike frame and parts.
Looks like it would work great. Just need to find something bike enough for your bike frame and parts.
01-14-22, 08:23 AM
#7
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Any rust removal is temporary. The plating has been compromised.
