Popular Woodworking 2004-04 № 140, страница 93

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If it's metallic, odds are it's rusting. But why? And how can you slow it down?

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Rust is the bane of woodworking tools. Once it appears, it seems to spread like cancer. For woodworkers in humid, salty climates (such as Hawaii or Florida), it's a never-ending battle. But for many, it's a skirmish that must be fought regularly.

You're probably aware of many ways to combat rust. We've looked at the science and we think we've found some good ways to deal with this problem.

But first you need to understand how rust works: When iron combines with water over time, it forms iron oxide, also known as rust. Pretty simple, right?

Well, there's more to it than that. First of all, know that iron is the most common and most useful metallic element. It is inexpensive, heavy and relatively easy to cast into shape, so you likely have it all over your shop. Odds are your planer and jointer beds, as well as your table saw's table and drill press, all are made out of cast iron.

by Michael A. Rabkin

Comments or questions? Contact Michael at 513-531-2690 ext. 1327 or michael.rabkin@fwpubs.com.

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