This is an example of the power of sonic cleaning metal type and cuts. The metal cut at the top has been sitting in a dingy basement, unused for 20 years.

I placed the cut in the sonic cleaner into a solution of roughly 50% water/50% orange degreaser (from the dollar store) and cleaned it in 3 cycles (of 3 min each).

The degreaser allowed the bubbles to lift the grime out of the detailed areas. I them lightly brushed the cut with a soft toothbrush (also from the dollar store), rinsed in water and let dry.

This method works for removing old ink as well.

If you have any questions, email me.