Posted by Lee Stofer on February 08, 2002 at 08:58:34:
In Reply to: Acid wash posted by Eric on February 08, 2002 at 08:16:30:
Eric,
When I chem-clean an instrument, the solution is normally at room temperature. The hot water, and this is just my theory, makes the metal suddenly expand faster than the lacquer, and if the lacquer is not bonded very firmly to the metal, it will just peel off. Acid cleaning solutions should be used by professionals and with the utmost of care, because if a tuba or parts are left in the solution too long, the acid will attack the lacquer and the metal. The key is to have it in there just long enough to do the job. When I'm chemically cleaning a tuba or parts thereof, I first have the "Tuba Sink" full of a warm, soapy solution, so that just as soon as the instrument or parts come out, the parts are washed and the acid is immediately neutralized.
I hope this helps.
-Lee Stofer