Passivation

Corrosion is a common problem that affects the durability and performance of metal components. When metals come into contact with oxygen and moisture, they eventually undergo chemical reactions that lead to rust and degradation. To combat this issue, industries rely on passivation, a chemical process that enhances the corrosion resistance of metals, particularly stainless steel.

Types of Passivation

  1. Nitric Passivation – This is the most common type of passivation used in industrial applications and is specified in industry standards such as ASTM A967 and AMS 2700.
  2. Citric Passivation – This method has gained popularity as a safer and more environmentally friendly alternative to nitric acid. It offers similar passivation properties and is often used as a substitute in industries where safety and environmental concerns are a priority. It is also less expensive, making it a more cost-effective solution for many applications.
  3. Pickle Passivation – Pickle Passivation is an aggressive passivation that completes two processes with one step. Pickle passivation produces a matte surface finish whereas nitric and citric passivations do not alter the appearance of the surface. The pickling removes weld discoloration, rouge, rust and other contamination and the passivation is automatic as soon as the processed part is exposed to atmospheric oxygen.
  4. Electropolishing – Beyond traditional acid baths, electropolishing stands out as the most effective means of passivation. This method not only removes impurities and contaminants but also enhances the corrosion resistance, aesthetics, and ease of cleaning of stainless steel surfaces.

Why Choose Our Passivation Company?

  • ✓ We are a leader in passivation services
  • ✓ Citric or nitric acid bath options
  • ✓ Circulation passivation of process lines
  • ✓ ASTM A967, ASTM A380, ASTM B912, ASTM B600, ASME BPE,SAE AMS2700, QQ-P-35C (replaced by AMS2700)
  • ✓ Shop & field services available
  • ✓ Single parts to bulk parts
  • ✓ Large scale solutions
  • ✓ Environmentally responsible, Hexavalent Chromium Free
  • ✓ RoHS & Reach Compliant
  • ✓ One-stop-shop for all metal surface finishing needs
  • ✓ Decades of experience as we serve across the East Coast
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When is Passivation Required?

Passivation is typically performed as a post-fabrication process after various machining operations, such as welding, grinding, cutting, and heat treating, which can introduce contaminants and affect the corrosion resistance of stainless steel. While stainless steel naturally has some resistance to corrosion, passivation is necessary to restore and enhance its corrosion-resistant properties.

Under normal manufacturing conditions, certain factors can inhibit the formation of the oxide film, such as foreign material in the manufacturing environment, added sulfides for improved machinability, and particles of iron from cutting tools embedded in the surface of stainless steel parts. Passivation helps to correct these issues by removing contaminants and ensuring a uniformly corrosion-resistant surface.

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