Cast-iron farm bells corrode over time when left in unprotected areas.
A call to dinner or the sound of alarm were made by cast-iron farm bells in centuries past. The bell, first developed in 400 A.D. by Bishop Paulinus of Campagnia, was an important communication device. Many of those cherished farm bells were passed down through generations; however, when cast iron is exposed to the elements, rust develops over time. Restoration requires rust removal and coating with a protectant. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Brush your cast-iron bell using a wire brush to remove loose rust.
2. Submerge the bell in diluted phosphoric acid to loosen rust, and lightly etch to expose a clean, fresh surface. Follow manufacturer's instructions for dilution rates and submersion times. Use the minimum submersion time to avoid unnecessary etching of the iron.
3. Remove the bell from the phosphoric acid solution, and brush with a stiff bristle brush or a wad of aluminum foil.
4. Mix approximately 1/2 cup of baking soda in a gallon of water. Rinse the farm bell inside and out thoroughly with the baking soda solution to neutralize any phosphoric acid residue.
5. Rinse the bell with clear water and allow to dry thoroughly.
6. Apply two coats of alkyd rust-inhibitive primer paint to the bell. Allow to dry between coats according to the manufacturer's directions.
7. Paint the restored farm bell with a coat of alkyd enamel paint.
Tags: farm bells, phosphoric acid, baking soda, bell with, farm bell, over time
