Brake cleaner is a powerful solvent that is often used to clean brake parts. It is also sometimes recommended as a rust remover. But does brake cleaner really remove rust? And if it does, how well does it work? In this article, we’ll take a look at how brake cleaner can be used to remove rust and what the results are likely to be.
Brake Cleaner
Brake cleaner is a common term for a powerful solvent that’s used to clean brake parts. It can also be used as a paint stripper or a degreaser in industrial applications, due to its ability to cut through grease and oil.
How well does brake cleaner remove rust?
The short answer is: it depends on the type of rust and how much there is. Brake cleaner can remove rust by either dissolving it or simply displacing it. If there isn’t too much loose rust on the surface, you might be able to just wipe most of it away with little effort using nothing more than brake cleaner and some rags. However, if there are already substantial amounts of rust built up or the rust has bonded to the surface, you might need to do a little more work, or take a slightly different approach.
What should I use brake cleaner on?
Brake cleaner should never be used on bare skin as it contains lye and other powerful solvents that can cause chemical burns. It also possesses flammable vapours so it’s best not to use it near open flames or heat sources. Only use brake cleaner in an area with plenty of ventilation, away from children and pets! Brake clear is best for using on metal surfaces as its strong solvent properties can dissolve rust quickly and easily clean dirt and oil from the surface too.
Potential risks
The main risk when using brake cleaner to remove rust is that you might end up causing more damage than good. If there is too much rust on the surface, brake cleaner can strip away the paint and other protective coatings, leaving the metal exposed and vulnerable to further corrosion. It’s also important to take into account the flammable nature of brake cleaner – if it’s not used safely, it could easily cause a fire. So, if you’re going to use brake cleaner to remove rust, be sure to do so in a well-ventilated area, away from children and pets.
Coclusion
So, does brake cleaner really remove rust? The answer is: it depends on the situation. Brake cleaner can be an effective way of removing surface rust, but if there is more extensive rust damage, you might need to take a different approach. Always take into account the flammable nature of brake cleaner and be sure to use it in a well-ventilated area. And always read the label before use!
