What
are the factors that control the effectiveness of Spotless Stainless?
Primarily Time and Temperature, for best results Spotless Stainless Rust Remover
should be used at temperatures at or above (70F - 21C ). The lower the temperature
the more time may be required to get maximum results. The warmer the temperature
the better the results in less time. Spotless Stainless Rust Remover must
remain moist to stay active. If using in direct sunlight or other hot environments,
it may be necessary to lightly re-brush Spotless Stainless to keep the solution
from drying.
Is Spotless Stainless a polish?
No, polishes are abrasive and may cause damage to the surface of stainless steel
by removing the protective chromium oxide layer. Spotless Stainless removes both
rust and the "surface iron" that causes rust from stainless steel. Spotless Stainless
Rust Remover is specifically designed for the marine environment to provide efficient
removal of rust and "surface iron" and protect stainless steel.
How long does Spotless Stainless Cleaner and Protector Last?
This depends on the quality of the stainless steel, the finish of the stainless,
the environment and is difficult to predict. We have experienced 6 - 8 months before
seeing any rust appear. We have reports of similar experiences from others who used
Spotless Stainless. We also have reports from ocean going vessels of less time before
seeing rust appear. Series 304 Stainless has no resistance to salts and will pit
when exposed to sea water. If rust does appear quickly after exposure to sea water
you may need to coat your Stainless after removing the rust and "surface iron" with
Spotless Stainless Rust Remover.
After using Spotless Stainless expose the Stainless in air for up to 24 hours before
applying a coating. Exposing the rich chromium surface left behind by Spotless Stainless
to air will thicken the protective oxide layer.
Will Spotless Stainless products affect the finish of the stainless steel?
No, Spotless Stainless will not affect the finish of 300 series stainless steel
other than removing rust and "surface iron". We do not recommend Spotless Stainless
for stainless steel not specifically used in the marine industry including tools
and knives. It is possible on some series of Stainless not found in the marine industry
that Spotless Stainless may darken the surface color. This is why we do not recommend
using Spotless Stainless on Carbon Steel. You should test a small area if you are
concerned about a surface.
Will Spotless Stainless remove rust from old hardware/lower grades of
stainless steel?
Yes, Spotless Stainless will remove rust and surface iron on 300 series
stainless steel. It is not unusual to find 304 grade stainless steel on boats. Today 304 is
not considered marine grade stainless steel because it will readily corrode and
become pitted when exposed to chlorides (salt). It may be difficult to remove all
the rust on stainless steel that is pitted. We have found that on some old hardware
that has not been cleaned for many years light rust spots may remain. In some cases
these spots may be contaminates in the Stainless and may be impossible to remove.
Will Spotless Stainless remove flaking or crusted piles of rust?
Yes, but it may take a long time and may not remove all the crusted rust. If heavy
rust needs to be removed, Scotch Brite (TM) or other non iron containing abrasive
may be helpful to remove the heavy deposits of rust before removing surface rust
and "surface iron" with Spotless Stainless. For more aggressive rust removal, increase
time and where possible increase temperature.
What type of container should I use when applying with a brush or as a bath?
Containers constructed of polypropylene, polyethylene, or stainless steel should
be used to hold or store Spotless Stainless Rust Remover. Do not use/store Spotless
Stainless in glass containers. We use a small plastic paint container and a small
brush that fits into the places we need to reach. For a bath we use the same container
to place loose hardware or hardware attached to lines like pelican clips. We use
larger containers for baths appropriate for the items being cleaned of rust and
surface iron. Spotless Stainless should be stored at temperatures below 120f/50c.
Is Spotless Stainless Rust Remover safe for rubber, plastic, fiberglass, wood
...?
Yes, almost all plastics and rubbers are compatible with Spotless Stainless. PVC
pipe is not recommended for long term use with Spotless Stainless Rust Remover.
In general Spotless Stainless will not harm surfaces however, it is important to
test a sample area before application.
Are there any materials Spotless Stainless is not compatible with?
Yes, Spotless Stainless Rust Remover will cause damage to the surfaces of concrete,
carbon steel, zinc, and galvanized steel if exposed for a period of time. Pigments
in some paints may not be stable and it is possible that Spotless Stainless can
affect the color. Avoid exposure to these materials and rinse if exposed to Spotless
Stainless. In general Spotless Stainless will not harm surfaces however, it is important
to test a sample area before application.
Do we need a ventilation system to use Spotless Stainless products in a closed
area?
No. Spotless Stainless releases no fumes. When heated, only water vapor is emitted.
How safe is Spotless Stainless?
Although very safe in normal use, Spotless Stainless Cleaner may cause irritation
to exposed surfaces of the body. Avoid contact with eyes or skin, do not inhale
or ingest.
First Aid:
Eye Contact: Flush with plenty of water
Skin Contact: wash
with plenty of water, remove any contaminated clothing.
If ingested: Do not induce
vomiting. Drink several glasses of water to dilute stomach contents.