Applications:
Used especially on stainless steel, titanium and other corrosion-resistant alloys after machining, welding, or fabrication, to enhance the naturally occurring oxide layer and remove free iron or contaminants. Common in medical, food, aerospace, clean-environment applications.
Advantages:
Enhances corrosion resistance by regenerating the protective oxide film and removing surface contaminants (iron, smut).
Does not significantly change dimensions or appearance—valuable for parts with tight tolerances.
Appearance:
Typically appears as the natural metallic finish of the substrate; very little visible change (sometimes a slight satin effect).
Applicable Materials:
Stainless steel (e.g., 300-series), titanium, and sometimes other corrosion resistant alloys.
Important Notes:
Not a decorative finish; its function is purely material protection.
Good cleaning and acid/chemical treatment must precede passivation—poor preparation will reduce effectiveness.
Because no real ‘coating’ is added, if subsequent processes damage the oxide layer (machining, welding) a re-passivation may be required.
Check compatibility of passivation chemistry with alloy and any subsequent finishes (e.g., plating, painting).
