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Corrosion protection by dipping in water solution

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We have a problem with corrosion protection of small, sharp steel parts we produce for our product. Mtl= AISI M2, Dia=.070", Lgn= 1-3/4. We grind a taper about 2/3 rds of the length down to a square that does not exceed .005" sq. Thus producing 4 very sharp edges + a Red Hair sized point. This grinding is a 6 step operation. Between each operation the parts are thoroughly washed clear of residue from grinding, then dipped in a water soluble solution before proceeding with the next operation. When finished they must be inserted in an Aluminum handle with Loctite #609.

Problem is: Very small parts; very small quantities, about 100-300/time; about 3-4 times /yr. In the past we were able to buy a water soluble powder in quantity that would last for literally years, then we ran out, tried to reach our supplier & could not. Product was called (by them) Fernox C-5.

Thank You in advance of a solution that you may offer.

Robert Rensen
mfg - Ft. Laud., FL, USA

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Try 2 oz/gal Sodium Nitrite in water. Again that is nitrITE.

Robert H Probert Robert H Probert Technical Services Garner, North Carolina Editor's note:        Mr. Probert is the    author of Aluminum How-To / Aluminio El Como

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Robert,

You may try looking for a supplier of a chemical called benzotriazole. It's available from most any metal finishing chemical supplier, water soluble and will give short term corrosion resistance (I use on copper and brass but I think it will work for steel). Good Luck!

Trent Kaufman electroplater - Galva, Illinois