Degreasing services for metals for surface treatments
Before you oxidize, electroplate, patinate or paint a metal surface black, proper degreasing is one of the most important steps. Grease, oil and dirt cause the layer to not adhere properly or to stains and color differences. This applies to all metals such as steel, iron, copper, brass, zinc and stainless steel. Degreasing the metal for surface treatments is very important!
A well-degreased surface is clean, grease-free and does not allow water droplets to bead up, but flows evenly wet.
Examples of degreasers
Solvent-based degreasers
- Acetone: evaporates quickly, leaves no residue, suitable for most metals.
- Isopropanol (IPA, alcohol): milder than acetone, good for light soiling.
- Ethanol: similar to IPA, but slightly less potent.
Household resources
- Warm water with detergent (e.g. Dreft or a neutral detergent): useful for light soiling; Always rinse well.
- Soda (sodium carbonate) in warm water: mildly alkaline, dissolves fats better than soap.
Alkaline cleaners (heavier soiling)
- Sodium metasilicate in water: highly alkaline, removes stubborn grease and oil and provides protection for steel.
- Ammonia solution (diluted): effective against grease, but always rinse thoroughly.
Mechanical cleaning (supportive)
Sanding, brushing or blasting: removes not only dirt, but also oxides. Often in combination with a chemical degreaser.
Borax-free powder degreaser: recipe
Many older recipes contain borax (sodium tetraborate), but this is classified in the EU as harmful to reproduction (H360) and therefore less suitable. Fortunately, you can also make a powerful powder degreaser without borax.
Basic recipe (dry powder):
- 40–60% sodium carbonate (soda)
- 20–30% sodium metasilicate
- 10–20% trisodium phosphate (TSP) or sodium citrate, if necessary
Use: dissolve about 50–100 g of powder per liter of warm water (40–70 °C). Dip or brush the metal parts into this bath to remove oil and grease. Then always rinse well with clean (preferably demi-) water and continue working immediately.
Practical tips
- Always wear gloves and goggles; Mild cleansers can also irritate eyes and skin.
- Do you work with solvents such as acetone or alcohol? Then make sure there is good ventilation.
- If necessary, combine methods: first soapy water with washing-up liquid or baking soda, then rinse with acetone or IPA for a streak-free clean surface.
- Check the surface by pouring water over it. If it flows out nice and even, then the metal is well degreased.