Quote:
Originally Posted by Private_collector
This afternoon I completed a 4 hour round trip to retrieve a large square plastic container, which I intend to use for stripping rust and other contaminants off ferous metal parts, in conjunction with caustic soda. The plastic 'cube' container is one of those which are often seen on heavy haulage vehicles. It sits in a metal cage framework designed to allow stackability and a degree of strength. I believe the approximate volume, when full, would be somewhere in the vicinity of 1000L........ish. While I certainly won't be filling the entire container, I want to have sufficient volume to immerse something the size of a gearbox case.
Some time ago, I was very impressed with what I could achieve when using a bath of caustic soda and electrolosis (or is it electrolysis?). I want to incorporate an electric charge in the use of the newly acquired tank, but have "LMF" when it comes to having a battery charger running when I am not able to closely monitor it myself. In fact, as we run almost solely off a stand-alone solar electric system, I wouldn't be comfortable with that scenario at all.
So here's my query; I have been giving thought to a somewhat unusual idea. We run the house on a solar collection system, so why not power the cleaning tank with a similar principal? Now, I don't know very much about solar panels, so I can't even be sure if the amperage would be sufficient. A supply of 2.5 to 3 amps should do, at least that was the current I used when playing with the battery charger all those months ago. Any higher amperage and the charger would cycle off & on, falsely detecting a high current return to the unit.
Does anyone have sufficient knowledge to offer some guidance as to whether this idea has legs or should be forgotten about?
All assistance appreciated,
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Hi Tony, I love the method of electrolysis to remove rust etc. I guess as you may have discovered it is a very quick method with some items. I've cleaned up tools in as little as 1/2 an hour.
The way I did it was to connect a car battery to the item and water +/- etc. then connect the charger to the battery.
So would connecting a solar panel to a battery do the same as the charger in keeping power up to the battery.
But I'm not an electrician or auto elec, I discovered electrolysis on the Internet. I'm sure there are wiser heads out there that could answer your enquiry.
Cheers Tim
31-05-13, 12:25
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