Why is pad eye stainless different and can I improve it with a Dremel

[tudorsailor]

The Wichard pad eyes on my yacht are now 17 years old. On polishing today it seems that the base's surface remains smooth but the D ring is pitted. I assume that the metals are different? Why is this?

Can I use a Dremel to polish out the pits in the D ring? If I can - are there tips on doing this?


Thanks

 

[pvb]

Gosh, you must have a lot of spare time!

 

[MM5AHO]

There are more than 50 grades of "stainless".
That word (Stainless) describes a family of steels, not a grade, so it's quite possible they're different.

 

[Norman_E]

I think there is pitting on both parts, but I would not try to grind it out as that would risk weakening it. Mine are also Wichard and I have not noticed any pitting.

 

[RichardS]

Gosh, you must have a lot of spare time!

Indeed. "Polishing out the pitting on the pad eyes" is about job number 397 on my list ..... which will be about 15 years after I have passed over. :ambivalence:

Richard

 

[vyv_cox]

A search reveals that there are two versions of the Wichard padeye, one in 316L and another in 17/4PH. The latter has greater strength but lower corrosion resistance, normally reckoned to be similar to 304. It may be that this is what you have. If so it will be attracted by a magnet.

 

[tudorsailor]

Ah ha! Base (shiny and non-pitted) does not attract a magnet. D ring (pitted and less shiny) does attract a magnet. So stronger but less cosmetic.
Can I polish it up with a Dremel?
TS

 

[mogmog2]

Ask Wichard?
I would be more inclined to rinse then apply some sort of wax to them rather than remove material. Not saying that is the correct thing to do, but preventing further corrosion would be more important to me than having them shiny.. Or re-passivate them.

 

[vyv_cox]

Ah ha! Base (shiny and non-pitted) does not attract a magnet. D ring (pitted and less shiny) does attract a magnet. So stronger but less cosmetic.
Can I polish it up with a Dremel?
TS

Polishing gives many benefits to stainless steels. Your 17/4PH has suffered pitting, using a Dremel on it would remove the pits, restore a smooth surface and eliminate surface flaws that will be the source of future pits. Whether it is worth the trouble only you can tell.

 

[macd]

Indeed. "Polishing out the pitting on the pad eyes" is about job number 397 on my list ..... which will be about 15 years after I have passed over. :ambivalence:

In that case, post again in the afterlife and I'll give you the definitive answer (no doubt from the same place). In the meantime, enjoy your sailing.