Well, even though I worked as a biochemist, and graduated in the Class of 1976 at the University of Nebraska (GO BIG RED), I decided to post this question to a man who plates and strips firearms for a living, and who has probably forgotten more about the subject than I will ever know.
I am doing this, of course, out of a pure search for the truth, not because some weasel is trying to squirm out of giving out prizes.
Here is the answer:
Well, Walter, it isn't any mystery. Lye,(sodium hydroxide), or washing
soda, which is sodiun carbonate(not bicarb)or TSP, (Tri-Sodium
Phosphate),
are the most commonly used degreasers. The sodium saponifies(turns to
soap) the oils and fats present so that they will wash away.
Unfortunately, it also attacks aluminum and magnesium alloys just as
quickly and washes them away.heh heh. Not a smart move. Jack F
The greatest obstacle to true education in this country
is the worship of "credentials" rather than knowledge.
<http://www.jack.fuselier.com>
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I then asked him about the wearing of the anodized layer may have affected the process:
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Right, Walt,
I'm sure the anodizing/dye combination does protect the metal for a
short time, probably long enough in the case of some alloy frames
to save them. It's possible that this gun was not anodized at all,
there is no rule that says it must be. Aluminum oxidizes and
protects itself against corrosion anyway and anodizing is just an
artificial extension of the same process. Not all anodizes are the
the same anyway, the voltage level used, the electrolyte used, and
the dye and the curing process all make a difference. Additionally
a powdercoat of clear lacquer is sometimes baked on. I use powdercoat
myself on some things. I don't trust the anodize completely just
because of incidents like that one. A good anodize/dye job is a thing
of beauty, as much trouble as bluing, and you don't want it ruined by
a can of oven cleaner. Jack F
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Eagerly anticipating the arrival of my prize, along with the simultaneous poster who answer was as valid as mine, I remain, Respectfully yours, Walt Welch