Removing Graphite

[Wes Auman]

I recently purchased a piece that the previous owner thought would look much better with a coat of graphite paste to make it shiny and gray. An online search shows graphite as not being a health risk, however I don't want it in my food. I have cleaned it several times and each time seems to be less graphite. Anyone with a recommendation for complete removal of graphite? Considering soda blasting but concerned with ruining a piece that can't easily be replaced. TIA Wes

[Jeff Friend]

Is it a mixture of some sort of grease with graphite?  What is keeping the graphite from just washing off with a good detergent?   :-/

[Wes Auman]

Graphite doesn't just wash off with detergent. That's why it is such a good lubricant.

[Russell Ware]

The internet seems split on this one. Here’s a list of the top ten:

-Erase the graphite with a pencil eraser.
-Rub the spot with a dab of vegetable oil on a clean rag.
-Use a baby wipe.
-Spray some "Simple Green" on a clean rag and wipe.
-Spray "WD-40" on a clean rag and wipe.
-Apply a paste wax or car polish with a clean rag.
-Toluene solvent
-High TSP containing detergent
-Duct tape
-Ammonia plus detergent

From what I've read, graphite can carry an electrical charge. Giving it a charge through electrolysis looks like it might cause it to stick more to the iron. Reversing the polarity might work, but that may also damage the piece you are trying to clean.

[Jeff Friend]

Tom Neitzel has used a soda blaster, so I am sure if there are any issues with damaging a piece, he would know.  I am not aware of any, but Tom is the one to ask.

I use walnut shells and they do not damage the iron.  Corn cobs and plastic blast media are other options.

I did a quick search and didn't find any common solvents that would work.  You may have to use a stainless brush and a good surfactant/detergent.  You could try Tide or Dawn with a some TSP and/or sodium carbonate.

[Valerie Johnson]

Have you tried alcohol like vodka or gin