[pianotech] aluminum oxide?

[James Johnson]

I have noticed this film that is usually found on upright piano plate screws and capo bar screws.  I have also noticed that these screws are nickel plated and that the residue will rub off with a little bit of elbow grease.  I do not think that the screws are compromised in any way.  I think the problem is purely cosmetic.

Jim
  ----- Original Message ----- 
  From: perrys piano restorations 
  To: pianotech at ptg.org 
  Sent: Thursday, January 21, 2010 8:40 PM
  Subject: Re: [pianotech] aluminum oxide?


  Hello,
   
  I am not aware of aluminum screws being used on any piano simply because aluminum is brittle, or weak depending on the grade.  Not sure.  Could it be zinc oxide?  I would clean and see if the metal is compromised.  Good Luck
  Mark Perry
   

------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  From: yiddishtangofever at shaw.ca
  To: pianotech at ptg.org
  Date: Thu, 21 Jan 2010 19:51:30 -0800
  Subject: [pianotech] aluminum oxide?


  Hello,



  I just noticed on the piano I was tuning today that the metal screws are covered with white powdery residue.  Is this aluminum oxide and do the screws need replacing or can this be cleaned off?



  Thanks

  Zoe



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