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Cleaning solution for rusted st. steel balustrading/rails

We had recently installed st.steel mirror finished staircase/balustrades for a coastal sea facing villa, but within a matter of 2 months, already we are experiencing rust or dot like blemishes appearing on the surface. We had used 304 grade. What is the best cleaning solutions to remove the stains and also prevent future appearances. thanks

Hussein Burhani
fabricator - Mombasa, Kenya
November 11, 2010

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Hussein,
304 is typically not able to stand up to a coastal environment. We recommend 316 or better. Stainless steel in a coastal environment is always a continuous maintenance issue, at the first sign of corrosion it needs to be cleaned and repassivated. Let us know if we can help.

Ray Kremer
Stellar Solutions, Inc.

McHenry, Illinois

First of two simultaneous responses -- November 19, 2010

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Second of two simultaneous responses -- November 22, 2010

My suggestion is to remove the Balustrade. Send it to a suitable recycling facility.
Replace it with a similar structure constructed from a corrosion resistant Stainless grade rather than a heat resistant Stainless grade.
My personal suggestion would be 316L.
This is a problem that cannot be polished over. Hope this helps.
Bill Doherty

William Doherty
Trainer - Salamander Bay, Australia