Electropolishing Stainless Steel
What is Electropolishing?
Electropolishing is an electrochemical process similar to electroplating, but the reverse. The electropolishing process operates on a microscopic level to smooth the surface of the metal part.
The Electropolishing Process
Electropolishing is an electrochemical process which is used for smoothing metal surfaces by removing microscopic amounts of material from the surface of the product. The metal work-piece is immersed in a temperature controlled bath of electrolyte while connected to the anodic (positive) position in a DC circuit. A current passes from the anode where metal is dissolved to the cathode where hydrogen is evolved. Electrolytes used for most commercial electropolishing are usually concentrated acid mixtures such as sulfuric acid and phosphoric acid.
Alkaline processes may be used for some metals. The protruding elements of a part’s surface profile dissolve faster than the material in the recesses.
Electropolishing systems for research and industry are available in manual and automatic configurations. Automatic systems may be continuous or batch. Each electropolishing unit is custom designed and supplied with the tools, special fixtures and accessories necessary for successful operation. Regardless of the sophistication of the application, a design can be developed to deliver the finish, precision and accuracy required.
