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


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A Lasting Shine on Mild Steel

Nearly 50 years ago, as an apprentice, I was required to make some tools, (tap-wrenches, in/out calipers, toolmakers clamps etc), in mild steel, as training. I still have them, unused, wrapped in rags in a cardboard box. They still shine but have small areas of light rust/discoloration. One of my sons came across them and admired them. I would like to restore the finish and present them to him as a keepsake.To get the polished finish I recall spending hours doing it by hand, using, finally, fine abrasive paper and "spit". Is there an easier way to a gleaming and lasting finish?

Brian Doyle
amateur - Ellesmere Port, Cheshire, United Kingdom
2004

Doing it at home you have to either sand like before or use a buffer. As for preserving the finish you can just keep it oiled or waxed, making sure not to get it wet or fingerprints on it. or you can send it out to get plated (chrome, titanium nitride, etc). Some people coat steel with a polyurethane but most urethanes and epoxides yellow with age (UV exposure) you can get UV -esistant urethanes but they are pricey($60+ gallon that I've seen) and not readily available.

Jason Aube
- Flint, Michigan
2004