What's new
British Ordnance Collectors Network

This is a sample guest message. Register a free account today to become a member! Once signed in, you'll be able to participate on this site by adding your own topics and posts, as well as connect with other members through your own private inbox!

Any idea's on removing Red Oxide primer?....

starshell

Well-Known Member
Premium Member
Hello all,

Does anyone have any ideas on removing Red Oxide primer from metal surfaces.
I'm in the process of trying to strip Red Oxide from a 6" HE shell, and its taking ages. In some areas it refuses to budge.
I'm assuming its water based.
I've tried Nitromors paint stripper, wire wheel brushes and scourer's soaked in paint stripper.
So far I'm left with a pretty patchy surface...
Any help would be much appreciated.
Thanks in advance!
 
If it is old primer, there is a strong possibility that it is red lead, in fact red lead primer is still available in the UK from specialist suppliers, as it was not banned in 1992 when white lead was banned.
Make sure you wear proper protective equipment, read up online, or contact one of the suppliers for advice.

There is some guidance on removing lead paint online, some key points I’ve copied and pasted below.

At all times follow this sound advice from the British Coating Federation:

  • Keep anyone not carrying out the work out of the area
  • Keep dusts to a minimum – only use wet abrasive paper
  • Do NOT use blow lamps or gas torches to strip paint
  • Do NOT create lead fumes by over-heating lead containing paints
  • Wear protective clothing and masks (if required)
  • Clean up thoroughly after the removal of old lead paint
  • Do NOT burn or incinerate lead-containing wastes.
 
Many thanks guys,

It had passed my mind of the possibility of lead based. Fortunately, I can dissapear down the end of the garden out of harms way. My neighbour is a health & safety trainer so masks & coveralls for various nasties are always to hand from him, something I always use when offered.
The next step was an abrasive sponge and water so we'll see how that goes.
Cellulose thinners I tried to no avail, but gunwash I'll bung on the list....

Many thanks for the info.
Cheers!
 
Last edited:
Sandblasting will generate dust.

It is not a good idea to sandblast lead compounds.
 
Top