"Flash Rust"

[Serota]

Every time there is a discussion of the inspection of steel tanks, the term "flash rust" always comes up. My question is: "How does flash rust differ from any other rust and if its there is tumbling or other procedure requiured to remove it? " Thanks.

Ever do any painting? Flash rust is like overspray. I can easily be removed by wiping it off with something like a Scotchbrite pad.

Oh, that's right. You can't get your arm in the cylinder to wipe it off.

The point is, flash rust occurs very quickly, and it's very light. The best thing to do is prevent it with something such as Compound B or Blue Gold. If you get it, though, it needs a light tumbling to eliminate it.

Rust is like cancer: if you don't get rid of ALL of it, it spreads.

[Kenny P.]

Ever do any painting? Flash rust is like overspray. I can easily be removed by wiping it off with something like a Scotchbrite pad.

Oh, that's right. You can't get your arm in the cylinder to wipe it off.

The point is, flash rust occurs very quickly, and it's very light. The best thing to do is prevent it with something such as Compound B or Blue Gold. If you get it, though, it needs a light tumbling to eliminate it.

Rust is like cancer: if you don't get rid of ALL of it, it spreads.

Or, slosh a little phosphoric acid solution around in it, pour it out, rinse, dry, and put a valve on it. Of course there's more to it than that, but it's the easiest way I've found to clean a steel cylinder.
Happy Diving,
Kenny P.