What is this? Put machine in water, add electricity, and ...

Can someone explain this to me?



Timestamp just after 7:30

What is it called and what can it do for me?

It's called Electrolysis.
From   Bulk cleaning and especially rust removal from bolts, screws, and other small hardware

Dan Boone wrote:  7)  Electrolysis.  Low voltage direct current (such as from a car battery or battery charger) passed through water with enough washing powder (sodium carbonate) in it to give it lots of ions.  Negative electrode (cathode) is an open steel basket with the rusty stuff in it.  Positive electrode is a piece of junk steel we do not love and don't mind depositing crud on.   In operation, emits small quantities of both hydrogen and oxygen gas, creating potential for "boom!" if not mindful about ventilation -- especially given that we are playing with spark-generating technologies.   However, the amounts are very small, thus likewise the risk if operator is at all times mindful.  Electrolytic solution to be disposed of is essentially water with particulate iron in it -- much less gicky than most of the chem-based approaches.   Internet demonstrations are impressive, and compare favorably to the caustic/acidic approaches.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electrolysis

It's an electrolysis reaction, using DC current, an electrolytic solution, and a sacrificial anode to convert rust back to iron.

Essentially, it reverses the normal electrochemical reaction that creates rust.

Unlike other acid methods, metal is not removed so it's preferable when restoring precisely machined parts.

The electrolytes all seem to be alkaline (a quick survey indicates baking soda, washing soda, or perhaps even salt).

https://www.qsl.net/2e0waw/rust.htm

http://www.secondchancegarage.com/public/electrolytic-rust-removal.cfm

https://www.instructables.com/Remove-Rust-Easily-and-Effectively-With-Salt-and-E/

Some of those items are chrome plated.  Wouldn't that remove the plating?  

This is electrolysis, a very neat process that can be done at home if you are so inclined to try it out. It's essentially using direct current electricity to cause a chemical reaction that otherwise would not happen. I have been procrastinating on another Electricity for Permies post and I think you just gave me a great topic!

Here is a link that explains it better and more in depth than I currently can. I'm sure there are other folks around here that know more than me too!

*Edit Just saw Mike and Douglas already answered. Lol should have refreshed before making my post.

r ranson wrote:Some of those items are chrome plated.  Wouldn't that remove the plating?  

I don't think so. From what I understand (other correct please if I'm wrong) the process is converting the rust which is iron oxide back into just iron. So I don't think it would mess with any chrome plating. However one safety note I just read in that link I posted was to not use stainless steel as your sacrifice piece as it generates hexavalent chromium "which can cause severe skin problems and ultimately, cancer". So just use some other type of mild steel you have laying around. ALSO if you do try it out just make sure you're doing it where there is good airflow, because the process does generate hydrogen gas. It is not toxic or poisonous but it is very flammable!!

Would the ultra sonic bath do the same job, better, worse?  

Or something different?

r ranson wrote:Some of those items are chrome plated.  Wouldn't that remove the plating?  

Looking at chrome removal methods, I think it would remove it. The chrome is so far gone on this piece that it probably doesn't matter. Anyone doing a restoration of this depth would have parts rechromed anyway.

Douglas Alpenstock wrote:

r ranson wrote:Some of those items are chrome plated.  Wouldn't that remove the plating?  

Looking at chrome removal methods, I think it would remove it. The chrome is so far gone on this piece that it probably doesn't matter. Anyone doing a restoration of this depth would have parts rechromed anyway.

I wonder if that is what the blue bath is later in the video?