The reality is that fabricating and handling practices invariably contaminate and degrade surface conditions. All forms of stainless steel corrosion begin on or near the surface. Surface contaminants, including grease, dirt, iron, and other metallic particles are inherent to the metal fabrication process. Additional mechanical cutting, handling and polishing will leave iron particles and abrasives embedded in the surface. The presence of surface contaminates disrupt the formation of stainless steel's naturally corrosion resistant oxide layer and are the origin of future corrosion. Electropolishing removes surface material and surface contaminants. Electropolishing dissolves free iron, inclusions, and embedded particles from the surface of stainless steel and promotes the formation of a thicker, more uniform chromium oxide layer.
Please see additional information in our full discussion of electropolishing.
INDUSTRY STANDARDS
QQ-P-35C
AE AMS 2700E
