[SEL] Fun with acid and old engines (cast iron fuel tank cleaning).

[Germoamer at aol.com]

In a message dated 7/3/2006 10:46:37 AM Eastern Daylight Time, 
curt at imc-group.com writes:

<<  Sulphuric acid was chosen because it has a much lower 
 vapor pressure that the other commonly available acid, hydrochloric / 
 muriatic. (An important consideration if you want to breath anywhere 
 near the tank being treated!) >><<  When working will 99% sulphuric there 
are some rules you have to follow as this is some dangerous stuff! A full body 
suit, coveralls, Tyvec or something to cover all the skin, long rubber gloves, 
safety 
 glasses or even better a full face shield. Most important is ALWAY add 
 the acid to the water, not the other way around. Simple dilution of the 
 acid is an exothermic reaction, instantly boiling the water at the point 
 of mixing >>

Good advice Curt and cannot be stressed enough.  If you have never had any 
experience around acid, seek advice and help from others as it is dangerous 
stuff and can lead to major medical problems including blindness or death!  

Great info on your cleaning of the tank and as you said, you were lucky to 
have a lab at work that you could experiment before using it at home!  


Tom Schmutz
Concord, Va. USA
Germoamer at aol.com