FM-3 Tube Shields - How to clean?

I'm wondering if someone has a method for cleaning the FM-3 Tube Shields.

What are the made of?

Anybody know any tips to clean them up?

Thanks,

Aguaazul

These are made of aluminum.....When new they may have had a clear anodized finish to inhibit oxidation. A metal cleaner suitable for aluminum should work OK....You could also purchase new ones from any number of tube suppliers......Kevin

I thought that is what they were made of. Thanks Kevin.

DynakitParts wrote:These are made of aluminum.....When new they may have had a clear anodized finish to inhibit oxidation. A metal cleaner suitable for aluminum should work OK....You could also purchase new ones from any number of tube suppliers......Kevin

Uh... no.

Modern tube shields may be made of aluminum, but back in the day, they were made from tin-plated spring steel. The tin plating was very thin, and the shields often rusted as a result. The best way to clean these shields is with Naval Jelly or the functional non-abrasive equivalent, after which they may be replated or simply put back. Do not use abrasives, emphatically not steel wool, so as not to leave shavings about.

Try with a magnet - if you pick up the shield, it is tin-plated steel. If not, aluminum. If aluminum, they may be cleaned by dipping in a hot solution of Cream-of-Tartar, then polished with a Scotch-Brite pad, somewhere in the next room, then washed and rinsed.

https://www.eastwood.com/ew-electroplating-system-tin-zinc.html?SRCCODE=PLA00020&gclid=Cj0KCQjwz93cBRCrARIsAEFbWshE4hGU78VUkG99buigHcetxNcKpGEqE9CU3N6O7FmdzUYOpavX9oIaAs0tEALw_wcB

Thanks Peter, looks like I am learning electroplating.