Here's a couple of techniques that we use when cleaning components for medical devices:
1) After your final water rinse, rinse the parts or immerse in isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol). The alcohol will absorb small amounts of water that remain, and in turn will evaporate more quickly during drying. You should use 90% IPA or better, as lower concentrations will not absorb as much water. This step is especially helpful for pieces or assemblies that have small gaps. Water is drawn into the gaps by capillary action and can be very difficult to dry thoroughly.
2) Heat the parts while drying. Even 100-120 is sufficient to increase the rate of evaporation - you don't have to get to the boiling point of water or alcohol. An oven can be used, or a heat gun, or a hand dryer like you see in public restrooms. A small portable heater with a fan would probably work nicely too.
For best results, use both steps. Carbon steel is still very vulnerable even when thoroughly dried, so it should be coated as quickly as possible with whatever finish you're applying. If you can't process them right away, they should be stored in a container with dessicant.
