pots and pans

[ilyaz]

While dumpster diving, I often come across pots and pans. The problem is, unless it's an aluminum pot, I don't know of a good way of figuring out what they are made of and, more importantly, what they are worth as scrap. OK, if a magnet sticks to it, I guess I just throw it into the iron/steel pile. But what if it does not and it's not aluminum? Are there any "quick and dirty" rules of classifying pots and pans scrap? Thanks!

[IdahoScrapper]

Do any of them have numbers or name stamped into it? If so, put it into a search engine and see if anything comes up.

[Mick]

Look for "STAINLESS STEEL" stamped on the bottom. If cast ironware, pay attention to the brand. Some are going for a lot on Craig's List and Ebay. I've got a market for any cast iron stuff used as cabin wall decorations. Research exactly what it is you've got. For instance, some Dutch Ovens are worth a lot. So is Griswold cast iron.

[parrothead]

Wagner and lodge are also 2 good cast iron names. If not magnetic I would think that it is easy to discern aluminum, stainless or copper. That would be the only choices.

[RustyDollars]

I realize this is an old thread but I wanted to show a before and after using electrolysis of a Griswold skillet I obtained. I seasoned it after the last picture and am happily using it.

[JJinLV]

Nice revitalization there!

[kss]

I realize this is an old thread but I wanted to show a before and after using electrolysis of a Griswold skillet I obtained. I seasoned it after the last picture and am happily using it.

interesting. I have some axe heads Ive wanted to restore sometime. This looks pretty promising

[RustyDollars]

Here is another before and after I did:

[hills]

It's nice work. I've derusted with a mix of muriatic acid & water before but like the idea of electrolysis better. An old timer on youtube recommended that "washing soda" be mixed into the bath. Afterward, using linseed oil on the raw metal to keep it from rusting back up again.

Man ... you've got something good when you've got a pipe vise in the shop. It's really handy when working with any kind of pipe or metal rod. Makes the job a lot easier.

[RustyDollars]

Thanks. Yes I use washing soda in the electrolysis process. I season cast iron cookware with flax oil. On the pipe vice I used a boiled linseed oil/polyurethane concoction.

[auminer]

Any links to 'how-to' youtube videos for electrolysis?

EDIT: Found one. I need to give this a go on a couple of things.