PASSIVATION OF STAINLESS STEEL
A commonly used finishing process, stainless steel passivation is primarily aimed at preventing corrosion. At Cadorath, the technique employs the use of nitric acid to remove free iron from an object’s surface. This treatment creates a protective oxide layer on the substrate it’s applied to—and much less likely to react with air and cause corrosion.
ADVANTAGES OF PASSIVATION OF STAINLESS STEEL
- Typically used for newly-machined stainless steel parts.
- Forms a chemical film barrier on parts to prevent rust.
- Removes contaminants from product surface.
- Substantially extends the life of parts and machinery.
- Reduces maintenance times, thus improving the bottom line.
ORIGINS AND DEVELOPMENT
Swiss chemist Christian Schonbein discovered the process in the mid-1800s after dipping iron in a concentration of nitric acid. Finding the dipped iron had almost no effect, he named the absence of chemical reaction the “passive” condition.
FUTURE APPLICATIONS
As dipping metals in nitric acid became a widespread practice in the 1900s, safety and environmental issues have become more apparent over the years. New research has identified other acids as effective alternatives—techniques that Cadorath is also investigating.
Would you like to learn more about the benefits of passivation of stainless steel?
Contact us to talk with an expert.
Call: 204.985.1317
E-mail: [email protected]
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