Stainless Steel Electropolishing
Stainless Steel Electropolishing is an electrochemical process sometimes referred to as “reverse plating” that works to passivate and restore the natural corrosion resistance of stainless steel.
Stainless Steel Electropolishing is a surface finishing technique that utilizes an electrolyte mixture that is positively charged using DC power to dissolve a small layer off of the exterior “skin” of stainless steel parts.
Why electropolish stainless steel?
Trace contaminants are often left behind during the manufacturing process that can compromise the natural corrosion resistance of stainless steel. Stainless steel alloys that have been passivated through electropolishing have an improved surface finish that enhances aesthetics, makes stainless steel components easier to clean and sterilize and restores the corrosion resistance of the metal.
What types of industries utilize stainless steel electropolishing?
Stainless steel electropolishing is utilized in a wide array of industries and has become a crucial step in the manufacturing process for a variety of stainless steel products and parts.
Some of the most common industries that utilize stainless steel electropolishing are:
- Semi-conductor manufacturing
- Aerospace manufacturing
- Medical device manufacturing
- Pharmaceutical and research laboratory equipment manufacturing
- Marine product manufacturing
- Food service product manufacturing
Electropolishing can remove imperfections from stainless steel parts including:
- Burrs on threads, edges, and cut-outs
- Discoloration due to laser slag
- Minor machining imperfections
- Heat tint on welds
Case Study
Electropolishing can solve complex corrosion issues. Learn about how NEE helped Battery Wharf restore the corrosion resistant layer and architectural beauty of the stainless steel architectural accents at Battery Wharf in Boston, MA.
New England Electropolishing is one of the few metal finishers in the U.S. to concentrate exclusively on stainless steel electropolishing. By focusing exclusively on stainless steel electropolishing since 1985, NEE has developed a reputation as a leader in the industry. NEE is driven to exceed customer expectations and is widely recognized for their ability to achieve a level of quality and consistency that other metal finishers simply cannot.
Electropolishing Resources
What is Electropolishing?
Electropolishing is an electrochemical and reverse plating process that removes the outer layer of skin on a metal...
The Electropolishing Process
The electropolishing process is initiated by immersing a metal part into a temperature-controlled bath of electrolyte...
Benefits of Electropolishing
Curious about the benefits of putting your parts through the electropolishing process? Read along below where we...
How Much Material Does Electropolishing Remove?
Electropolishing, when done properly is a highly controllable process which removes as little as...
How Much Will Electropolishing Improve the Surface of my Part?
Ra and RMS are both representations of surface roughness. Ra is calculated as the roughness average of a surface’s...
Electropolishing Frequently Asked Questions
Learn the difference between electropolishing and electroplating as well as how the electropolishing process works...
What is ASTM B912?
ASTM B912 is an industry standard for the passivation of stainless steel alloys through electropolishing...
What is ASTM A967
ASTM A967 is an industry standard specification for the chemical passivation treatments for stainless...
What is ISO 13485?
ISO 13485 is a standard that applies specifically to medical devices. ISO 13485 is designed to be...