In my never ending endeavor to flog dead horses I’ve been doing some
research. Given my location pool chemicals are not readily available
so my situation may be unique. So given my local supplier for pickle
is drying up I’ve been doing some research online for alternative
sources.
First, I was mistaken in stating that there is a hazardous chemical
charge for shipping sodium bisulphate. UPS only charges hazardous
shipping charges for aqueous sodium bisulphate (sulfuric acid). No
hazardous charge for granular sodium bisulphate.
PH Minus. There are pool chemical suppliers online that ship
chemicals. Average price for a 30 lb bucket is $45-$50.
Griffith’s Pickle. This is the pickle distributed by Grobet. It is
the one that is repackaged by my local rock shop. Indian Jeweler’s
Supply lists a 40 lb bucket for $67.95 in their 2006-2008 catalog.
Rio Pickle. Rio Grande lists their product as containing sodium
bisulphate for $54.95 for a 45 lb drum.
So dollar for dollar it looks like Rio Pickle is the best bargain if
they are true with their advertising:
Manufactured in a controlled environment-you never have to worry about quality, consistency or performance of this quality-made product!. Safer than sulphuric acid mixtures.. Contains sodium bisulfate.
I have not researched every possible source for Sodium Bisulphate. I
did find chemical supply companies that manufactured sodium
bisulphate but I didn’t contact them as I’m sure they have bigger
fish to fry than a guy who will buy maybe 1 bucket a year.
Rick Copeland
Silversmith and Lapidary Artisan
Rocky Mountain Wonders
Colorado Springs, Colorado
http://rockymountainwonders.com