Posted by Chris Ray on October 03, 1998 at 20:16:10:

In Reply to: Re: Topic: Corten Steel oxidation time & Treatment posted by Andrea Morse on October 03, 1998 at 18:56:00:

Since you aren't saying what the nature of the restoration on the cor-ten piece is then I can only offer these generalized suggestions. To clean a piece use a mechanical method such as sandblasting, wirebrushing or sanding/grinding.

To restore a piece use the same proceedures as building the original which will include welding with 7018 low hydrogen rod, replacing rivets, bolts or other attachment devices.

You will not be able to match the restored surface to the aged orginal patina but simply allow time to take care of that. Within a year or so the color will begin to match on it's own.

I find it curious though that you have noticed a flakey or powdery finish on the piece you mentioned. This suggests to me that the piece is made of regular steel and not cor-ten unless the work is situated close to a salt water environment or other continuously damp area. The finish on aged and weathered cor-ten is very tight and except for a superficial dusting perhaps, will not rub off.

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