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Caustic cleaner for aluminum?

I want to setup a hot caustic tank for cleaning automotive parts. I'd just use NaOH but I'd like to be able to clean aluminum parts as well. Does anyone have suggestion on what chemicals to use? I've heard 10% KOH 2%KNO3 will work but I though I'd get an expert opinon.

Thanks,

Chris McKinnon
Hobbyist - Victoria, BC, Canada
2005

Hi Chris,

Products that are used for cleaning metal surfaces are specially formulated to perform that function. These contain alkaline builders, surfactants and other things. If you want to clean multi-metal parts effectively, you should buy a cleaner that is right for the job, rather than mess around with a home-brew mixture.

George Gorecki
- Naperville, Illinois
2005

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