Cleaning Steel Top Bench

[MSU88]

I picked up a 3' x 8' steel framed work bench from CL this week and would like to get the top clean. The top is plywood wrapped with steel and has some light surface rust and grime and the frame could use a good cleaning and paint.

I am looking for suggestions on what tool to use. Leaning towards purchasing a grinder and any advice would be appreciated.

Thanks,
MSU88

 

[rquackenbush]

Post a pic if you can! I'm not sure that will change the answers, but it sounds like a cool workbench.

 

[Outlawmws]

Kind of depends on what surface look you want. you could belt sand it for a satin look, use a random orbital or vibratory sander for a m irregular look, you can simply use phosphoric acid (Jasco metal etch) to remove light rust, you can wire wheel it for another patterned look...

Do you plan on painting it of leaving it bare steel?

 

[bobcatdan]

Depending on the surface rust, grinder with a wire cup if it's pretty bad. If real minor, an angle die grinder with rolac wheels. Could sand blast it since you want to claen the whole thing. Once clean, I'd pour some oil on it, rub it around and wipe off the extra.

 

[MSU88]

Thought bare steel would be easier. I would like it to be clean and smooth. I have not worked with metal before and I want to do it right the first time.

Thanks.

MSU88

 

[Underdog]

I usually hit something like that with a 6" da sander, 80grt to start off, finish with 220grt. Roloc's are too small!

 

[ZRX61]

I'd attack it with a large scotchbrite disc & leave it looking like this toolbox:

 

[plung]

BKF maybe?

 

[gerahead]

The problem is that after you have cleaned it, unless you protect the surface, it will rust again. I too placed a sheet of steel over the top of my work bench to keep heavy parts (like cylinder heads) from gouging the wooded top. Looked really good for awhile. The high humidity in the air in the spring and summer is enough to fuel the rust rage. L8r

Jim

 

[MSU88]

I'd attack it with a large scotchbrite disc & leave it looking like this toolbox:

This is what I was thinking of. Now for the question I need answered, what tool to attach the scotchbrite disc to?

Thanks.

 

[TheDogHouse]

This is what I was thinking of. Now for the question I need answered, what tool do attach the scotchbrite disc to?

Thanks.

I guess you could attach the disc to a screwdriver, a 1/4" ratchet, a breaker bar or a spray gun... but you'd probably have better luck with a grinder, electric or air.

 

[ZRX61]

That was done with a 3in (red) disc on a die grinder. They make larger ones for angle grinders, I have a black 7in disc somewhere in the garage.

 

[MSU88]

I guess you could attach the disc to a screwdriver, a 1/4" ratchet, a breaker bar or a spray gun... but you'd probably have better luck with a grinder, electric or air.

Thanks guys I appreciate the advice. I've worn out a breaker bar and spray gun,,, think I'll try a grinder next.

 

[Dustball]

I've got a similar table but mine's all steel- 3'x9', 7/8" thick top and 3"x3" square tube legs and 7/8"x4" horizontal ribs. I'm thinking maybe later this year or next year I'll clean it up like what's being discussed in this thread.

Is clear-coating the top surface after wire brushing/sanding a good idea?

 

[ZRX61]

Is clear-coating the top surface after wire brushing/sanding a good idea?

That will scratch & flake off.... I'd use a good quality car wax .... or I think the woodworkers stores sell something for table saw tops etc..?

 

[SpiderGearsMan]

don't paint it