I was randomly scanning round YouTube this morning and discovered this:
The production is a bit weird and jumpy, but it seems like an interesting technique that might be of use to someone here...
Did he say HF?!
I just thought the exact same thing! Jesus - you can buy HF off the shelf in the US of A?!
Linky, how to do this is a safe DIY way:
http://howtobrew.com/book/appendices/appendix-b/passivating-stainless-steel
I did worry about the HF reference - I know a retired professional chemist, who told me that HF was the one chemical he really feared (although he was talking about high concentrations). The video maker did say that the professional gear uses a solution of phosphoric acid... which I think we can get in the UK, if the brand name can be identified.
I don't know about chemicals!
I did used to work with a professional welder - a fabrication artist. Stainless steel welding can be hard to do well and then takes some cleaning
afterwards. His method was air powered sanding wheels and hand polish (when necessary). A quick, SAFE and easy method could save time.
I use Avesta BlueOne™ Pickling Paste 130
I consider it safer to use the proper stuff, designed for the job, than to take the advice of random internet authors.
Acid in liquid form is an accident waiting to happen and the "BlueOne" is a gel, so less likely to splash.
Also, as a gel it vaporises less so it's safer from a fume point of view.
Obviously you read the safety instructions on the bottle and wear appropriate protection, using it in a ventilated environment.
Paul G
(Qualified, trained, & professional welder)
I work at an oil refinery and we have a hf alkylation plant. HF is very nasty scary stuff, it will suck all the calcium out of your bones.
We're all issued with a calcium gel to apply in the event of an exposure.
Thankfully not my unit but i have worked on there, gauntlets, visors, goggles and thats just to walk around. if you're actually doing anything
its chem suits and breathing apparatus.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alkylation_unit
go to a good welding store, they will sell you pickling paste, I have used it for years in the fabrication department of my workshops never any concern. Customers like Wrigleys and Walkers also use it, I have borrowed theirs when on site welding. As with any chemical, take care and always have a good supply of water nearby in case.
I can only offer my most humble apologies for posting the original link - I shall now go and give myself 50 lashes with a wet noodle...
No No NO! you did the right thing, its good to see different views, hence a forum.
I personally used to enjoy a flogging with a damp issue of the Sunday Sport 
quote:
Originally posted by David Jenkins
I can only offer my most humble apologies for posting the original link - I shall now go and give myself 50 lashes with a wet noodle...
This thread reminds me of the electrolysis thread.
Someone pointed out about the risks of using stainless steel and chemicals it produced if used in the process.
Or the welding near brake cleaner fluid....
Or some other threads related to safety.
If the forum wasn´t working, the rest of us would be at risk.
Better your pride hurt than your body...
Or someone´s else...
Bonus points to the ones pointing out the risks associated to the stuff...
quote:
Originally posted by 40inches
Should know better at your age
Responsibility...?
I found mine was spiraling downwards until I had kids, then it took an upturn. As the kids get older it's transitioned into a sense of risk
management (on their part).
BTW...if you feel a wet noodle is suitable then go right ahead