How to Remove Rust from Stainless Steel Pipe

Stainless steel pipe has a low installation and maintenance cost, is completely recyclable and has a high resistance to staining. Stainless pipes are used for carrying water and gas while other stainless-steel items include cutlery, kitchen appliances, surgical instruments, industrial machinery etc. Stainless steels tendency to rust is lower than ordinary steel but rust can surface and do damage when it is exposed to air and moisture consistently.

It is important to remove rust from stainless steel as it does not only damage the aesthetic appeal of the pipes but also deteriorate their functionality and worsen their condition. Below are the essential tools and steps to remove rust from your stainless-steel pipes.

Step 1: Analyze the Problem

In order to effectively remove rust, it is obviously significant to understand the intensity of the problem by carefully observing the stainless-steel pipes. Before you get down to the process of actual removal you must locate where the rust patches appear and what is the concentration of the rust in terms of its penetration.

Step 2: Insert Wrenches

After you have analyzed the problem and have a fair understanding of the rust’s concentration, rub the rust on the surface using a wire brush/wire wall to eradicate the excessive rust. After the excess has been removed, insert 2 pipe wrenches with 24 inch handles onto the fitting and the pipe. When you press the handles of the wrenches the fittings will loosen up. However, you may have to slide a heavy metal pipe on top of the handle in order to apply more pressure on the wrench while it tries to loosen the fitting.

Step 3: Remove the Rust

After the fitting has been removed, put oil onto the rusted patch and let it be for 15 minutes or so. That should lift the rust off and if that does not remove it completely then provide heat to the sticky part(s) of the fitting with a torch for 15 seconds or so and get rid of the rust effortlessly.

Step 4: Safety Precautions

Tools and equipment used in this project require safety measures and precautions so that you do not encounter any possible physical damage or injury. Safety tools like hand gloves should be worn when you are handling tools or equipment, goggles/safety glasses should be worn while you’re working at the rusted steel, a face mask in order to protect your skin and a fire extinguisher should be handy while you are using a torch.

Step 5: Reduce the Risk of Rust in Future

In order to reduce the risk of rust damaging your stainless steel again in the future, determine the type of stainless steel that the pipes have been made of and contact your local hardware store for more information and advice. Also you should periodically check the pipes to see if any rust is forming as it is always better to counter the rust problem in initial stages.