From acid to Salt-X - An eco-friendly rust remover
This post is based on a report from a customer who wanted an environmentally friendly replacement for acid-based rust removers.
Problem: One of our industrial customers used traditional acid-based rust removers – effective, but hazardous to the environment and users. They wanted a green alternative that:
- Removed rust just as effectively
- Was safe for employees and metal
- Could be used in their existing workflow
Solution: They were recommended to test Salt-X by us. It is primarily a salt remover, but it is also a highly effective rust remover.
Background: Why switch from acid-based rust removers?
The customer had used phosphoric acid-based products for years, but faced several challenges:
🚫 Health hazard - Irritating fumes and risk of chemical burns.
🌍 Environmental impact - Waste requirements and discharges were a logistical burden.
💰 Cost - Safety equipment and special handling increased operating costs.
Goal: Find an equally effective but sustainable alternative that could be integrated without changing the production line.
Test method: How the customer conducted the test
A tank was filled with water and 10% Salt-X. The corroded parts were placed in the tank and left submerged in the solution for 24 hours. 
Result:
After treatment with SALT-X, all metal parts showed significant improvement in rust removal. The following observations were made: Rust removal: SALT-X effectively removed the rust from all samples, and the parts had a clean metal surface after treatment. Damage to metal parts: No visible damage to the metal surface was observed, and no degradation or weakening of the material was recorded. Aesthetic improvements: The stainless metal parts appeared visually improved, with a smooth and undisturbed surface after the treatment. 
Conclusion: Salt-X has proven to be an effective and reliable rust remover for metal parts. It has removed rust in a thorough and gentle manner without damaging the metal parts. The product can be recommended for use on components that require rust removal without affecting the quality of the metal.
Before and after 24 hours in a 10% solution:
Will they go back to acid? Never!
The customer concluded that Salt-X:
✅ Meets all requirements for rust removal – just as well as acid.
✅ Eliminates health and environmental risks (no hazardous waste or fumes). Can be poured directly down the drain.
✅ Reduces total costs: less need for protective equipment and special handling.
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FAQ:
❓ "Does Salt-X work on all rust?
Yes, but on extremely thick rust (e.g., 10+ year old corrosion) it may require longer treatment than 24 hours.
❓ "Can we use it in our existing rust removal tanks?"
Yes – Salt-X is non-corrosive, so it does not require special equipment. Simple plastic containers work.
❓ "What about aluminum?"
Salt-X is safe for all metals, but always test first.
Salt-X is not just a "green alternative" – it is a better alternative, period.
For companies that:
✔ Want to phase out hazardous chemicals
✔ Need equally good (or better) rust removal
✔ Want to lower total operating costs
Want to try it yourself?
You can buy Salt-X directly in our online store here: https://realmarine.no/collections/salt-x
Or you can contact us at post@realmarine.no or by phone at 51 47 94 00 if you want us to come by for a demonstration!
