Understanding the Frankford Arsenal Cleaning Lineup
Wet Tumblers: The Cornerstone of Clean
Wet tumbling is a highly effective method for cleaning brass, reaching inside and out. Frankford Arsenal’s wet tumblers are engineered to deliver outstanding results in a convenient and efficient manner. They are designed for reloaders of all levels, from beginners to seasoned professionals. The process involves immersing brass cases in a cleaning solution and a media, typically stainless steel pins, which are then agitated within the tumbler. This action scrubs away dirt, grime, and carbon deposits, leaving your brass sparkling clean.
The benefits of wet tumbling are numerous. It offers a deep clean, removing contaminants from inside and outside the case. The stainless steel media reaches into primer pockets and internal surfaces, providing a level of cleanliness that dry tumbling often struggles to achieve. Furthermore, the wet process lubricates the brass, which can aid in sizing and reloading operations. Frankford Arsenal’s wet tumblers offer various features to make the process as simple and efficient as possible. Some models have built-in timers for precise cleaning cycles, while others incorporate media separators for easy removal of the media from the cleaned brass. These advancements contribute to a streamlined workflow.
Ultrasonic Cleaners: Power for the Stubborn Stains
For brass that requires extra cleaning power, Frankford Arsenal also offers ultrasonic cleaners. These devices utilize high-frequency sound waves to generate microscopic bubbles in a cleaning solution. These bubbles implode against the brass, dislodging even the most stubborn grime, carbon buildup, and oxidation. Ultrasonic cleaning is an excellent choice for brass that has been neglected or has seen heavy use, ensuring the interior of the case is pristine.
The benefits of ultrasonic cleaning are clear. It provides a deep and thorough clean, even reaching into crevices that are difficult to access. The process is generally faster than wet tumbling for smaller batches and requires less physical effort. The Frankford Arsenal ultrasonic cleaners often come equipped with features such as digital timers, multiple cleaning cycles, and built-in heaters to enhance the cleaning effectiveness. These features allow for customization of the cleaning process to suit the particular needs of the brass.
Brass Dryers: The Final Step for Perfection
After wet tumbling or ultrasonic cleaning, it’s crucial to dry the brass thoroughly. Wet brass can lead to corrosion, and the moisture can negatively impact your reloading process, affecting accuracy. Frankford Arsenal offers dedicated brass dryers designed to provide a fast and efficient drying process. These units circulate heated air around the cases, evaporating any remaining moisture.
The advantages of using a brass dryer are significant. They provide a consistent and rapid drying process, ensuring the brass is ready for reloading in a timely manner. This is especially important for reloaders who work in volume. These dryers help prevent water spots or oxidation, which can occur if the brass is air-dried. Frankford Arsenal brass dryers are frequently compact, space-saving units designed for ease of use and efficiency.
Cleaning Media and Solutions: The Heart of the Clean
The effectiveness of any cleaning process depends heavily on the cleaning media and solutions used. Frankford Arsenal provides a range of solutions and offers guidance on the best products for use with their equipment. These cleaning products are designed to work synergistically with their equipment, ensuring the most effective cleaning action.
For wet tumbling, stainless steel pins are the most common and highly recommended media. They effectively scrub away contaminants and reach into every nook and cranny of the brass. Frankford Arsenal cleaning solutions formulated for wet tumbling are specially designed to break down carbon and grime without damaging the brass. The solutions typically contain surfactants and rust inhibitors to further enhance cleaning action and protect the brass from corrosion.
For ultrasonic cleaning, a specialized cleaning solution is necessary. Frankford Arsenal offers formulations that are specifically optimized for use with their ultrasonic cleaners. These solutions are designed to work at the ultrasonic frequencies of the machines to maximize the cleaning process. These solutions will break down the toughest dirt while helping to maintain your reloading equipment.
The Step-by-Step Frankford Arsenal Cleaning Process
Prepping the Brass: Setting the Stage for Success
Before cleaning, brass cases must be properly prepared. The initial stage involves sorting and inspecting the brass. Separate cases by caliber and check for any obvious signs of damage, such as cracks, dents, or bulges. Discard any damaged cases, as they are unsafe to reload. Consider removing spent primers from your brass prior to cleaning. This step simplifies the cleaning process and allows the cleaning solution to penetrate the primer pockets effectively. Removing any other large debris, like grass or dirt, will also ensure that the process will run more efficiently.
Wet Tumbling Process: A Deep and Thorough Clean
If using a wet tumbler, follow these steps:
Solution Preparation: Mix the appropriate amount of cleaning solution and water according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This often involves measuring a specific amount of concentrate and diluting it with water.
Media and Brass Addition: Add the stainless steel pins to the tumbler. Then, add the brass cases, ensuring not to overload the tumbler. Overfilling can impede the cleaning action.
Secure and Run: Seal the tumbler according to the manufacturer’s instructions, ensuring a watertight seal. Set the timer and begin the tumbling cycle. Recommended cleaning times will vary depending on the condition of the brass.
Separation: Once the cycle is complete, use a media separator to separate the brass from the stainless steel pins. This process will prevent the loss of any brass and the media from being left within the cases.
Rinsing and Inspection: Rinse the cleaned brass thoroughly with water to remove any residual cleaning solution. Inspect the brass carefully, looking for any remaining dirt or stains. If necessary, run the brass through another cleaning cycle.
Ultrasonic Cleaning Process: For the Ultimate Clean
If using an ultrasonic cleaner, the steps are as follows:
Solution Preparation: Fill the ultrasonic cleaner tank with the cleaning solution, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
Case Placement: Place the brass cases in the cleaner basket. Do not overload the basket, ensuring that each case is exposed to the cleaning solution.
Cleaning Cycle: Set the timer and begin the ultrasonic cleaning cycle. Recommended cleaning times will vary depending on the brass’s condition. It is always best to start with the recommended time, then inspect. If more cleaning is required, run a second cycle.
Rinsing and Inspection: Remove the cases and rinse them thoroughly with water. Inspect the cases for cleanliness.
Drying the Brass: The Finishing Touch
Drying the brass is essential to ensure long-term performance and prevent oxidation.
Loading the Dryer: Place the cleaned brass in the Frankford Arsenal brass dryer. Do not overcrowd the dryer, ensuring that each case can be thoroughly dried.
Drying Cycle: Turn on the dryer and let it run until the brass is completely dry.
Inspection: Inspect the brass to ensure it is entirely dry.
Post-Cleaning Inspection and Storage: Preserving Your Work
After cleaning and drying, inspect the brass cases meticulously. Check for any remaining debris, signs of damage, or imperfections. This step is crucial for ensuring the safety and reliability of your reloads. Once the brass has been thoroughly inspected, it is time to store it properly. This will protect the brass from tarnishing and ensure that it remains in pristine condition for your next reloading session. Store the clean brass in a dry, airtight container to prevent oxidation and moisture damage.
Tips for Optimal Cleaning
Cleaning Solution and Media Recommendations: The Right Combination
Choose the right cleaning solutions and media for your needs. Frankford Arsenal wet tumblers work best with stainless steel pins and their specifically formulated solutions. For ultrasonic cleaning, use the correct solutions.
Preventing Problems: Avoiding the Pitfalls
Several common issues can arise during brass cleaning. To avoid these issues, follow these guidelines.
Overfilling: Avoid overfilling the tumbler or ultrasonic cleaner.
Cleaning Times: Adhere to the recommended cleaning times to prevent damage.
Thorough rinsing: Rinse the brass thoroughly after wet tumbling or ultrasonic cleaning.
Drying: Dry the brass completely after cleaning.
Maintenance and Care: Ensuring Longevity
Proper maintenance is crucial to keep your Frankford Arsenal equipment running optimally. After each use, clean the equipment according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Regularly inspect the equipment for any wear or damage, and replace any worn-out parts. Store the equipment in a clean and dry place when not in use.
Conclusion
The Frankford Arsenal cleaning line offers a comprehensive and effective solution for reloading brass. The combination of wet tumblers, ultrasonic cleaners, brass dryers, and specially formulated cleaning solutions provides reloaders with the tools to achieve a deep, thorough, and efficient cleaning process. Following the step-by-step process outlined in this guide will help you to maximize the cleanliness of your brass, which will translate to better accuracy, improved reliability, and longer-lasting reloading components. Proper brass cleaning is an investment in the quality of your reloads. So, invest in your success by using the best process for Frankford Arsenal cleaning and enjoy the benefits of a clean, well-maintained reloading system.
