I have used electrolysis on many old rusty tools and had great results. I prefer it because it removes as little rust as possible. Now for my question will electrolysis damage chrome plating such as on sockets? If anyone doesn't know what electrolysis is or wants to see my system feel free to ask and I will create a how to thread.
Electrolysis on chrome
- Thread starter Tomg303
- Start date
Outlawmws
Well-known member
Electrolysis is a well known process here on GJ.
Don't put any plated tools into an electrolysis tank, chrome or otherwise.
A: it will remove the plating, and
B: it will create a hazardous situation in your electrolyte. heavy metals and Hexavalent chromium.
Same with Stainless, keep it out of the tank. Plain old iron and steel only.
typically either white or apple cider vinegar, or a molasses solution is what I recommend, or simply using an SOS pad, (Not Brillo) or 0000 steel wool and oil for rust stains.
Don't put any plated tools into an electrolysis tank, chrome or otherwise.
A: it will remove the plating, and
B: it will create a hazardous situation in your electrolyte. heavy metals and Hexavalent chromium.
Same with Stainless, keep it out of the tank. Plain old iron and steel only.
typically either white or apple cider vinegar, or a molasses solution is what I recommend, or simply using an SOS pad, (Not Brillo) or 0000 steel wool and oil for rust stains.
Last edited:
318fekim
Well-known member
Will this work to remove factory chrome plating ........say on a bumper to achieve proper paint prep?
Outlawmws
Well-known member
In theory, yes, in practice I would not go there.
Read up on Hexavalent chromium (carcinogen) before even considering it...
neonnblack
Well-known member
Well, neat to find this out AFTER the fact, good thing it was stored outside...
318fekim
Well-known member
I had herd of Hexavalent chromium @ work for years ......our respirators are supposed to protect from it....never really thought about it. Thanks.
4x4gearhead
Well-known member
Wow, just read up on hexavalent chromium, glad to know what not to do. I always thought it was a matter of just stripping plating on chrome stuff, not a threat to your life.
lwlobo
Well-known member
I've heard that electrolysis only affects chrome in places where there is rust under the chrome, but I cannot verify this for sure. In general, it's a bad idea to use electrolysis on chrome or stainless parts, period.