Editing Rust, pitted

==What causes pitted rust== Rust pitting is caused by a localized lack of oxygen in metal. This causes an area to become anodic (it readily gives up electrons), contributing to the degradation of the metal into rust. Pitted rust can be more insidious than surface rust. While the pits may comprise only a small volume of a piece of metal, the widespread perforation can compromise the overall structure of the metal. ==How to fix pitted rust== The "best" way to fix pitted rust on body panels is to generously cut out the rusted area, and weld in new metal. This is not always a viable option for all people, in all situations. A more common solution is to remove the rust, mechanically and/or chemically, clean the panel thoroughly, fill the pits with a purpose-specific finish product, and coat with [[epoxy primer]]. ===Removing the rust in the pits=== First, all visible rust must be removed ====Mechanical removal of pitted rust==== *A spot blaster is useful for this, with silica as the medium (confirm, and get list of other acceptable media). *Also, the following can be used: metal brush, grinding wheel, die grinder, a wire wheel on a drill. (what 3M discs are recommended for this?) ====Chemical removal of pitted rust==== ==Additional resources== *[http://www.materialsengineer.com/G-Pitting-Corrosion.htm] *[http://www.corrosion-doctors.org/Forms-pitting/Pitting.htm Pitting corrosion] *[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pitting_corrosion Pitting corrosion] *[http://www.corrosion-doctors.org/Forms-pitting/shapes.htm Corrosion pit shapes]

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