How to Remove a Rusty Screw?

Screws are commonly used in daily life, and they are generally made of either carbon steel or stainless steel. Despite their wide applications, screws may encounter issues during use, such as rusting due to prolonged exposure and material characteristics. So, how can you remove a rusty screw? As a professional fastener manufacturer, XINCHI is happy to share some effective methods.

1. Tapping Method for Removing a Rusty Screw

For screws that are severely rusted, avoid using a wrench to forcefully turn them, as this may damage the screw head, break the screw, or ruin the wrench. Instead, gently tap the wrench handle with a hammer. This impact can help loosen the rusted screw, making it easier to turn.

2. Oiling Method for Removing a Rusty Screw

For screws with mild rust, apply a few drops of machine oil or cooking oil along the gap between the screw and the nut. After allowing the oil to penetrate, use pliers or a wrench to unscrew it easily.

3. Heating Method for Removing a Rusty Screw

For screws with severe rust, the heating method may be effective. Follow these steps:

1. Use a gas welding torch to heat the screw and nut thoroughly.
2. Once the screw is red-hot, quickly drip some machine oil or sewing machine oil onto it.
3. The heated screw will expand, breaking the rust layer between the screw and the nut. Afterward, the cooling process will cause the screw to contract, further widening the gap. The oil will seep in, allowing the screw to be turned out easily.

Note: Avoid this method if plastic parts are nearby, as they may melt. Additionally, avoid reusing screws that have been heated.

4. Impact Method for Removing a Rusty Screw

If the screw head’s slot (whether flathead or Phillips) is deformed and cannot be gripped by a screwdriver, try the impact method:

1. Use a hammer and a flathead screwdriver to create a V-shaped groove on the top of the screw.
2. Adjust the screwdriver’s angle and strike it in the direction of unscrewing.
3. Once the screw loosens, use pliers to unscrew it completely.

5. Welding Method for Removing a Rusty Screw

If the screw has broken off, avoid drilling through it directly with an electric drill, as this can damage the housing or enlarge the screw hole, requiring re-tapping. Instead:

1. Weld a piece of flat iron or metal rod onto the broken screw using an electric welder. The size of the flat iron should match the screw’s diameter.
2. After welding, quickly drip oil onto the weld point to allow the oil to penetrate the rusted area.
3. Once cooled, gently tap the other end of the flat iron back and forth with a hammer. As the screw loosens, twist the flat iron to unscrew the broken screw.

6. Soaking Method for Removing a Rusty Screw

For screws in plastic components or fastened into plastic parts, the above methods may not be suitable. Instead, soak the part in water or machine oil for several hours. This will soften the rust and make the screw easier to remove.

By following these techniques, you can effectively deal with rusty screws and minimize potential damage to surrounding materials.

XINCHI is a trustworthy fastener company, especially in furniture nuts. We have a factory,  founded in 2007. And we are the designated fastener supplier to“STAPLE”. As a trusted fastener supplier,  XINCHI can offer a wide range of high-quality fasteners, including nuts, screws, bolts, rivets, washers, etc. If you want to know more about fasteners or want to wholesale fasteners, please feel free to contact us. And then our experienced and expert service team will reply to you as soon as possible.