How to loosen rusty or stuck nuts and screws

27/02/24

Why is it difficult to loosen a rusty or stuck screw?

There are a few reasons why a rusty screw may be hard to remove. The oxide itself is the first of them; it is formed on the screw's surface through a reaction with oxygen. Since rust increases friction between the screw and the surface it is screwed into, it may become more difficult to loosen a screw when it appears.

The second reason is seizure. This phenomenon happens when two surfaces come together and become challenging to split apart. It might occur because of the appearance of dirt or corrosion. Therefore, the surface fusion of the screw and thread is what makes it difficult to remove a stuck screw.

Thirdly, you also need to take the screw's placement into account. Applying sufficient power to loosen anything that's rusty and stiff might be challenging, especially if it's in an awkward location.

How to loosen a rusty or stuck screw

To answer this, either loosen everything or apply a rust remover. Generally speaking, a loosening deoxidizer fights both rust and seizure by allowing penetration into the thread to eliminate surface rust, making it easier to release screws, nuts, or bolts.

Boltex is a high-performance deoxidizer; we'll go into more depth about its actions to remove severely seized and corroded screws below.

Boltex

It is recommended that you do the following actions in order to utilise the Boltex correctly: :

1. Apply to the components to be loosened.

2. Let it act for a few minutes. In case of joints with a lot of rust, leave it to act for 5 or 10 minutes.

3. It can be applied to surfaces to remove rust with the help of a spike brush in the case of a porous or rough surface.

4. Use a fresh, dry towel to wipe away any last bits of dirt without leaving any trace.

5. If need, repeat the process.

You can also use other deoxidizers and looseners for particular cases

RUST REMOVER ROST-OFF PLUS

High-quality rust remover, lubricating effect — owing to the latest additive technology (OMC 2 technology)

High capillary activity

Optimum creeping properties ensure outstanding rust penetration and extensive rust removal

Resin and acid-free
Silicone-free
Compatible with rubber and plastic

ROST OFF BLACK RUST REMOVER

Highly effective graphite-based rust remover, which can be used as rust remover, lubricant, corrosion protection, and cleaner.

Loosens and lubricates seized up, corroded connections
Forms a pressure-resistant lubricating film
Resistant to temperatures from -30°C to 450°C (emergency running properties due to graphite)
Excellent lubricating effect even in damp environments

ROST-OFF BLUE ICE RUST REMOVER

High-quality rust remover with cracking effect and visual cold indicator

Optimum rust removal

Rust is quickly penetrated and loosens seized up screws
Heavily rusted screw connections are loosened without damaging them