Removing salt from Aluminum

[Boathook]

I am rebuilding some of my windows to stop them leaking. This also saves money; well more to spend at the pub ...!!
How do I though, remove the salt crystals. I have tried washing the frames in warm soapy water, etc but it seems that something stronger is required to disolve the salt. Any ideas ??

 

[Joe_Cole]

If hot water doesn't clear it I wonder if it is salt.

 

[isandell]

Are you sure that it's the salt crystals and not corrosion? The salt crystal will dissolve in warm water, added by a bit of gentle rubbing.

If it's corrosion. maybe you need to remove the corrosion mechanically and reprotect the ali. Make sure that you remove all the corrosion back to bear metal.

Ian

 

[AndrewB]

This is very likely not sea salt but crystalised aluminium oxide. Take a look at the recent thread below: "Window Corrosion", started on 5th January, and check if the corrosion in the picture looks like yours.

Refurbishing aluminium frames is usually a professional job but I've done DIY in the past with good results. With the frames off, remove the crystals and any other loose or soft material by first drying thoroughly, then use a combination of light wire-brushing and sanding with fine emery paper. It is likely that small pits will be left, these should be filled with epoxy filler or 'super steel'. As the original anodizing will have been damaged, it is desirable to paint the frames before refitting or they'll soon go again.

 

[Boathook]

Re: Removing salt from Aluminum re AndrewB

AndrewB & All,

Thanks for the info, I also missed the window thread. My windows aren't that bad yet .....

 

[marina95]

When a spinny pole end seized up I was advised by the spar manufacturer to use white venegar which apparently harmlessly removes alloy oxidisation and salt.