Standard Specification for Passivation of Stainless Steels Using Electropolishing

1.1 This specification covers the passivation of stainless steel alloys in the 200 (UNS2XXXX), 300 (UNS3XXXX), and 400 (UNS4XXXX) series, and the precipitation-hardened alloys, using electropolishing procedures.

Note 1—Surface passivation occurs simultaneously with electropolishing under proper operating conditions. The quality of passivation will depend on the type of stainless steel, the formulation of the electropolishing solution, and the conditions of operation. Free iron on the surface of the stainless steel is removed resulting in improved corrosion resistance. Surface smoothing obtained by electropolishing will also improve corrosion resistance. Electropolishing will also remove heat tint and oxide scale.

1.2 This specification may involve hazardous materials, operations, and equipment. This specification does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.