Dust

Edward Sakowski <edward.sakowski [at] ccc__govt__nz> writes

>In our new gallery we have got problem with dust. I will appreciate
>any suggestion to minimize the problem.

As others have written, have the dust analyzed!

With regard to any functional objects such as clocks or watches or
locomotives that reside in your new gallery, if the results of the
analysis point to abrasive particulate, the objects that are
operating *must* be stopped until the source of the dust is
identified and contained or controlled *and* the residual dust
removed. The objects mechanical mechanisms may need to be completely
dis-assembled, cleaned, and re-lubricated with new lubrication prior
to further operation. In reality, the objects should be stopped
right now prior to analysis to prevent further damage.

Dust will be churned up by visitors and will infiltrate the
mechanical mechanisms via air convection and currents even if the
mechanicals are enclosed in a casing.

Jim Moss
Horological Conservator


                                  ***
                  Conservation DistList Instance 17:5
                  Distributed: Tuesday, June 24, 2003
                        Message Id: cdl-17-5-003
                                  ***