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-----Corrosion during "de-waxing"
Is it possible for "etching" of the base metal (high strength steel) to occur if: The plating/holding fixture is aluminum (and therefore in contact with the component) and, both the fixture and component are in the process of being "de-waxed" in a proprietary solvent using an elevated temperature (120 °F) for a duration of approximately 60 minutes?
Tony Hopson- Sterling, VA., USA
2001
First of two simultaneous responses--
It is possible for the steel to be etched if the solvent contains corrosive constituents. Some solvents can break down over time to form acidic components. For example, chlorinated solvents can form hydrochloric acid in some conditions. Even a moderate acid concentration in the solvent could etch the steel in 60 min.
Larry Hanke
Minneapolis, Minnesota
2001
Second of two simultaneous responses--
Yes. The wax may have been removed well before 60 minutes. So the proprietary solvent is now working on the base metals.
Bill Hemptech svc. w/ chemical supplier - Grand Rapids, Michigan
2001
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