Protecting Power Tools from Rust

Protecting your power tools from rust can sometimes feel like a full time job. Garages and basements are notoriously hard on tools due to the fact that these high humidity environments provide the perfect conditions for developing rust. By following a few simple procedures you can spend more time woodworking and less time fussing over your rusty tools.

When you purchase a new power tool, it is shipped with a thick coating of Cosmoline to protect the cast iron from rusting. Once it is in your shop, this coating must be removed and your cast iron top is no longer protected. Too many times anxious woodworkers remove all of the Cosmoline without thinking about the ongoing protection of their investment.

To protect cast iron surfaces, you must apply a coating that will keep the air and moisture away. The easiest and most effective method is to apply one of the commercially available rust preventative sprays. Two common brands are Empire Top Saver and Boeshield T-9. Both of these sprays are applied directly to the surface and then rubbed down to remove the excess. This step should be repeated periodically to keep a layer of protection on the tool.

The unfortunate reality of tool ownership is that despite every good intention, tools left unprotected will eventually develop rust. Furthermore, if left alone, the rust will only continue get worse.

This jointer was left unprotected. The buildup of sawdust on the cast iron bed encouraged the formation of rust. After only 2 years, this tool was in need of some care.

The old methods of rust removal generally focused on using abrasives such as steel wool. While this works, it is difficult to get the abrasives into the pits created by rust. Fortunately, there are products available that can make this job a lot easier and more effective.

A product called Rust Free by Boeshield is a rust remover that quickly removes rust. This spray on rust remover works well on the tops of tools that are too large to soak in rust removal solutions. To use Rust Free you need to spray it on the rusted areas, wait a minute, and then just wipe dry. If the rust persists, just apply again and use an abrasive such as steel wool or a synthetic abrasive pad to remove the remaining rust.

After following the steps using Rust Free, the jointer is now free of rust and is ready to have the rust preventative applied. If you look closely you can see a small rust pit. These pits are the unavoidable consequence of the rust. No method of rust removal can fill in a rust pit once the rust has consumed the metal.

Most rust removal sprays contain some type of acid. These acids will dissolve rust very quickly and the metal very slowly. When using Rust Free or any other spray, be sure to wear safety goggles and gloves to avoid contact with eyes and skin.

By following these methods of rust prevention and rust removal your cast iron power tools will last a lifetime.

Purchase woodworking rust preventative and removal supplies at The Rust Store.