Cleaning copper ingots involves a multi-step process to remove tarnish and achieve a polished finish. Here's a detailed guide based on the provided reference:
Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Copper Ingots
The cleaning process involves sanding, cleaning, polishing, and finishing.
1. Initial Sanding
- Begin by sanding the copper ingot with progressively finer grits of sandpaper. Start with a coarse grit, like 80, then move to 180, and finally 320. This initial sanding removes any significant imperfections and tarnish.
2. Cleaning with WD40
- Apply a light spritz of WD40. This step is crucial to help with the next stages of sanding and polishing by acting as a lubricant. This tip was learned from Bigstackd.
3. Fine Sanding
- Once the ingot has been treated with WD40, continue sanding using very fine grit sanding discs, specifically 1000 and then 2000 grit. This refines the surface, making it smoother and preparing it for polishing.
4. Removing WD40
- Wipe off any residue. It is crucial to thoroughly remove the WD40, as this allows for the application of polishing compounds. Use alcohol or another appropriate cleaning agent for a clean surface.
5. Polishing
- Use a polishing wheel with a green or white polishing compound. The polishing wheel will impart a mirror-like shine to the copper ingot.
6. Final Clean and Finish
- Wipe down the copper ingot one last time and you should now have a clean and polished finished product.
Summary of Steps
| Step | Action | Material/Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Initial Sanding | Sand with progressively finer grits | Sandpaper (80, 180, 320) | Remove tarnish and imperfections |
| 2. WD40 | Apply a light spritz | WD40 | Lubricate for sanding and polishing |
| 3. Fine Sanding | Sand with very fine grit discs | Sandpaper (1000, 2000) | Further refine the surface |
| 4. Cleaning | Wipe off WD40 residue, clean | Alcohol or other cleaning agent | Prepare for polishing |
| 5. Polishing | Polish with compound on a wheel | Polishing wheel, green or white compound | Impart a mirror-like shine |
| 6. Final Clean | Wipe down, admire | Clean cloth | Remove polishing residue, enjoy the clean ingot |
Following these steps, you can effectively clean and polish copper ingots to achieve a high-quality, lustrous finish.
