I have been looking for a easy way to remove the rust from odd shaped parts and was looking at sandblasting, but it is too messy and kind of expensive to get setup and continually buying media. With the electrolysis only using washing soda, (which is harmless and can be dumped on the ground when finished) is a good alternative.
I decided to build a tank for electrolysis out of a 55 gallon drum I picked up on craigslist. I went the 55 gallon route because I am going to be restoring my snow thrower and tiller soon and want the large capacity. I used the setup found at
http://1bad6t.com/rust_removal.html as a basis to my tank design. Since it will be stored outside between the garage and shed, I wanted to still be able to use the lid so it would be water tight. I have only been able to get the rebar mounted that will act as the electrodes. will update as I get further along.
Untitled by
yamaguy, on Flickr
I decided go with 6 electrodes to get good line of sight coverage.
Untitled by
yamaguy, on Flickr
I tacked a 1/4-20 bolt to the rebar to mount it to the tank, and also to connect the wiring.
Untitled by
yamaguy, on Flickr
I ran the wires on the inside for a cleaner look.
Electrolysis tank by
yamaguy, on Flickr
Here it is so far all sealed up. I put a 1/4-20 coupling on the outside of one of the bolts that the battery charger lead can hook to (not pictured)
It has the ability to strip 31" high at a time. I can't wait to use it!!