Nick, I myself have used muriatic acid (diluted some with water) on numerous occasions for etching and/or for removing galvanized. [Follow acid & water mixing and all other related safeguards]
I was taught the trick in a university level artist blacksmithing class. There are numerous pieces of rusty scrap to be had that have a dangerous zinc/galvaized coating lurking just under the rusty coat. I now automatically give a muriatic test bath to all rusty parts too. When placed in diluted muriatic zinc/galvanized will almost instantly begin to react & fizz, even if it is hidden under a rusty layer. Continue bath until ALL fizzing stops, then rinse in baking soda & water to neutralize. Before using this safety process I had zinc sneak up & bite me a few times will sickening results.
Be safe, not sorry! I would much rather talk to you than about you!
Hope this info helps.
__________________
"From the origination of ideas, to forging individual elements, to placing the finished piece, my work is as susceptible to failure as to success. Attentiveness to the process is all that's held in balance between the two."
Tom Joyce; Artist blacksmith; Santa Fe, New Mexico
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I do what I can, when I can, the best I can - utilizing whatever I have to work with!
trying-it (AKA: Stan)
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