Rust can be treated, removed or prevented.
Rust occurs when water and minerals interact with metals. Steel and iron are destroyed if rust is allowed to spread. As the oxide molecules grow, they expose more metal and make the metal more vulnerable. Saltwater and heat can speed up the rusting process. Red iron oxide, or rust, destroys the metal alloy, but black oxide actually protects steel. You can treat, remove or prevent rust from forming.
Prevention
Lubrication and waxing are both methods of preventing rust. When you are choosing a wax or lubrication, take into account what the tool or product is used for. Products for woodworking tools will be different than those used for fastening. For instance, Automobile Paste Wax, Bostik Top Cote or Way Lube can be used for woodworking tools. They also prevent friction. Determine whether you want an oily residue, found on petroleum-based products, or a wax residue.
Treatment
Metal can be painted if the rust has not spread too far. Apply a thick coat of paint after thoroughly cleaning the metal. Use a paint like Rustoleum, because of its durability. Cover every part of the exposed metal, even hard-to-reach areas. Picklex 20 is a rust converter that creates a coating on the metal to protect it. Some products on the market claim they will convert rust to black oxide, bonding the rust molecules together. All loose rust must be removed prior to the application of rust converters. Your metal may feel rough and turn black after using converters.
Removal
Sandblast rust to remove it from metal surfaces. Sandblasting is common in automobile repair. Unfortunately, sandblasting also removes healthy medal and hardens the surface of the metal. Delicate tools can be glass bead blasted. Rust can also be scrubbed off using sandpaper or steel wool for smaller pieces. Metal can also be acid washed using phosphoric acid to remove all rust, wax and other buildup. After the rust is removed, treat it with a prevention method.
Alternatives
Natural remedies also exist, including naval jelly, cream of tartar, baking soda and vinegar. Bleach can be used also, but wear protective clothing and gear. WD-40 can also be used to fill the pores of rust after the loose rust has been removed. This will slow the progress. Electrolysis will also remove rust, and requires a battery charger, electrodes, wire, water, chain, and laundry soap (see Resources).
