Aloha, fun & authoritative answers -- no cost, no registration, no passwords, no popups
(as an eBay Partner & Amazon Affiliate we earn from qualifying purchases)

Where the
world gathers for metal finishing
Q&As since 1989

-----

Cleaning Aluminum Casting

Can I use a solution of Nitric and sodium Dichromate to brighten aluminum castings without etching the machined surface. If so what is the mixture.

Ken Tittle
Detroit, Michigan

Your mixture is used for smut removal, after etching. It removes some of the impurities of the alloy after etching away the aluminum. You should bright dip or etch before machining operations, since you are removing a significant amount of metal. Then remove smut, then further operations.

Tom Pullizzi
Falls Township, Pennsylvania

(No "dead threads" here! If this page isn't currently on the Hotline your Q, A, or Comment will restore it)

Q, A, or Comment on THIS thread -or- Start a NEW Thread

Disclaimer: It's not possible to fully diagnose a finishing problem or the hazards of an operation via these pages. All information presented is for general reference and does not represent a professional opinion nor the policy of an author's employer. The internet is largely anonymous & unvetted; some names may be fictitious and some recommendations might be harmful.

If you are seeking a product or service related to metal finishing, please check these Directories: