Stainless steel pretty much gets its name from the fact that it is highly resistant to corrosion. This property is made possible by the thin film of chromium oxide that naturally appears as a result of the metal’s exposure to oxygen. The surface has to be pristine to complete the process effectively. Learn the importance of passivation in the production of high-quality construction and fabrication material.
The Need
The thin layer of chromium oxide protects the stainless steel from corrosion, making it a highly important construction material. This layer becomes vulnerable when the metal is used for fabrication. Stainless steel passivation is a finishing method that is necessary to make the material more durable.
The Nature
Passivation is a process done after the stainless steel item has been made and all needed fabrication processes are finished. Manufacturers remove impurities that are present on the surface, such as free iron and shop dust, and treat the steel using an acid bath. This promotes the reformation of the protective layer that makes metal truly stainless.
The Benefits
Objects made of stainless steel need to be absolutely resistant to corrosion and would require passivation to improve durability and performance, which Peak Finish recommends. For example, any stainless steel item that touches food or drink should undergo this finishing process.Otherwise, it would be bad for your health if rust develops on the surface of that item.
Passivation is an important process in making stainless steel highly corrosion-resistant, aside from being strong and durable. If you have any stainless steel fixtures that need to be completely rust-free, such as water pipes and kitchen fixtures, then it would be best to have passivation performed on them.
