Passivating removes iron contamination from the surface of metal. Chemicals are used to dissolve the iron components, then the passivating process produces a thick film that protects the metal from further corrosion.

Iron is deposited on stainless steel during storage, machining, or operation, when parts move against each other and produce friction. Passivation is an inexpensive process that can save money in the long run, since the contamination and corrosion of parts can reduce product life.

Equipment that can benefit from passivating services include plant and factory equipment, aerospace and medical devices, computer components and automotive and marine parts. Some things to look for in a passivation service include:

1. Passivation services that meet the requirements of your industry;

2. On-site passivating services for large or unmovable equipment;

3. Passivating equipment and chemicals that enable you to do the job in-house.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Use passivating techniques that meet industry standards

Regulated industries must follow specific requirements for passivation processes. Passivation techniques include nitric or citric acid passivation. Some industries specify that citric acid must be used.

I recommend: Astro Pak is a leader in passivation services. The company offers approved on-site and in-house services that meet various industry standards at locations throughout the United States. Imageering Finishing Technologies works with more than 1,000 industry specifications. Able Electropolishing offers patented Brite passivation, which combines manual and chemical passivating for a cleaner, brighter finish. The process is approved by several industries. Send in a part to get a sample cleaning. Harrison Electropolishing supports industry standards and specializes in services for the bio-pharmaceutical industry.

Find a mobile passivating service

Many passivating companies offer on-site services. They can come to your location to work on large equipment.

I recommend: Delstar Metal Finishing offers on-site passivating and chemical cleaning services. Allegheny Surface Technology provides several on-site services in addition to passivation and will clean a sample for free. Central Electropolishing provides on-site passivating for stainless steel and nickel alloys.

Find equipment and chemicals from passivation experts

If metal passivation is a service your company requires regularly, consider investing in equipment and parts that enable you to do it in-house.

I recommend: Stutz offers a large variety of passivating equipment and chemicals. Best Technology provides standard equipment for passivation of small or large parts and specializes in custom equipment for specialized needs.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Most passivation experts will clean sample parts for free. They often require that a specific type of part be submitted for the sample. Check the requirements before sending in an item.
• •  Find out whether the passivating service provider offers testing and certification. The tests - such as humidity and salt water testing - should be similar to operating conditions.