Official Luthiers Forum!

Hi all,

I'm having trouble getting rid of some white deposits on some ovangkol/shedua that I have. I succeeded in the past using acetone when I had the same thing (or at least it looked the same) on EIR, but now it can't seem to do anything on Ovangkol.

I've attached a picture.

Any suggestions?

Thanks!

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Alain Moisan
Former full time builder of Acoustics, Classicals and Flamencos.
(Now building just for fun!)

Ok, I did a search on 'mineral deposits" and got some answers.

It seems a series of solvents (water, water and vinegar, water and lemon juice, naphta, etc) might do the trick.

I'm currently doing some tests with plane old water and it seems to be doing something.

You're still welcome to let me know if you have a better solution!

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Alain Moisan
Former full time builder of Acoustics, Classicals and Flamencos.
(Now building just for fun!)

I've always used MEK for mineral deposits on Rosewood. The MEK doesn't remove the deposit, but colors it with oils from the wood. I've been told that muratic acid works too, but I've never tried it. I have used muratic acid to clean concrete and brick LOL.

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I didn't mean to say it, but I meant what I said.
http://www.brackettinstruments.com/

Diluted muriatic acid is the trick. The white deposits are calcium carbonate (lime). They are common in tropical hardwoods.

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John

Thanks a lot John, I'll give that a try.

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Alain Moisan
Former full time builder of Acoustics, Classicals and Flamencos.
(Now building just for fun!)

Wear an organic vapor respirator, safety glasses (or full face shield) and work outdoors if possible. Also wear rubber gloves and old clothes.
Trust me on that.

Hank

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Hank Mauel

Thanks Hank but fortunately, I didn't have to use muratic acid.

Since the white deposits are lime, as John stated, it gave me an idea. I diluted some CLR (as seen on TV!) and worked my way white a toothbrush, and rinsing the CKR with water. That took the most of the white deposits out. Then after a light sanding, I wiped on a small coat of shellac (zinsser) which managed to tint what remained of the white lines.

Someone looking for whatever remains of the deposits will find some, but overall I'm satisfied with the result.

Thanks for your help, everyone!

_________________
Alain Moisan
Former full time builder of Acoustics, Classicals and Flamencos.
(Now building just for fun!)