Mystery rusty object found in Swildon’s

[PeteHall]

A few weeks ago, I found this rusty object wedged between rocks in Swildon's, not far upstream of Sump 1.

It appears to have a hexagonal handle and 3-pointed-star shaped shaft. Overall length is about 10 inches.

So, what is it?

First thought was some kind of hand drill?

 

[Alex]

Looks like a chisel after the wooden handle has rotted away.

 

[IanWalker]

Looks like a Rawl drill

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[PeteHall]

Looks like a Rawl drill

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That looks like it Ian. Thanks!

I'll maybe give it a clean up some time

 

[Flotsam]

Looks like a Rawl drill

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Otherwise known as a Star Drill

 

[alanw]

I used this technique on a rusty knife I found a very long time ago in Ireby Fell

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[PeteHall]

I used this technique on a rusty knife I found a very long time ago in Ireby Fell

Electrolytic Rust Removal

Electrolytic Rust Removal: Electrolysis can remove rust like magic. I had read about this several times, and finally decided to give it a try on a recent project. I was restoring an older cuckoo clock and found that the battery had been left in, and severely corroded the bat…

www.instructables.com

I was just going to tap the worst of the rust off with a hammer and cold-chisel, then attack it with a wire wheel on an angle grinder; the same way I treat my Land Rover

 

[IanWalker]

I've had success on old tools by using molasses (aka black treacle), watered down 10:1. Just leave the part submerged in the solution and check daily, and give a swish around. Slow acting but easy and quite safe. Leaves a pleasing black/gunmetal finish.

You would still need to knock off the worst of the rust.

 

[JohnMCooper]

Used to use this to insert 1/2 inch solid forged eye hangers. Think this was a size G drill. Rather rusty and unused nowadays!

 

[Maj]

I was just going to tap the worst of the rust off with a hammer and cold-chisel, then attack it with a wire wheel on an angle grinder; the same way I treat my Land Rover

White vinegar works really well. But you do need to oil it or protect it as soon as you take it out otherwise the moisture in the air will cause it get a fine rust layer.

 

[Ad W]

Citric acid is my go to for that kind of thing. Like vinegar, the part needs protection afterwards to prevent flash rusting.

@IanWalker do you still get problems with flash rusting using molasses, and does the black finish rub off?

 

[IanWalker]

I have not found flash rust to be a problem, but then I wash the parts and oil them. The black stuff seems to be a mix of treacle and converted rust products. Most washes off well, and I don't mind the patina that remains. I will see if I can get some photos

Caution though - if you forget about the part and leave it in for many weeks you may find it totally black, porous and thin! It is slow acting but still needs watching. I would say this is comparable to electrolysis and acid in that regard.

Best bet is to try it on a rusty nail, or bolt, or neglected file, and see what you think for your application

I have used black treacle from the supermarket with good results, but if doing large parts I would go to a farming or equestrian feed supplier as they sell molasses for animal fee in bulk

MVF Molasses - 5L

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