# What current and voltage are best for electrolysis rust removal?

I weld carbon steels all the time, and sometimes I get parts from the scrapyard. Unfortunately, these parts are generally oxidized, so I've been assembling an electrolysis tank for it. This tank removes the oxidation in about a day. I'm getting the feeling that I can make it go faster if I step up the current or voltage. What combinations of currents or voltages would make the fastest method of removal?

NOTE: I'm familiar with the risks of doing electrolysis, including hydroxy production, and the restriction on stainless steel electrodes.

• What is the applied voltage? Did you try just HCl? – Jaroslav Kotowski Sep 17 '15 at 10:42
• I use 12V at 2A. I'm using NaOH for the electrolyte. Approximately 1 tablespoon per gallon with 15 gallons. – Sarah Szabo Sep 18 '15 at 3:36
• and what about the HCl? – Jaroslav Kotowski Sep 18 '15 at 10:12

The current density in $mA/cm^2$ is the key number. For electrolysis on stainless steel, I would say you need to stay less than about $1~mA/cm^2$ to stay safe.