Report: Electropolish 6,000 Times More Effective Than Traditional Polishing  | Limat | 29.08.09


Electropolishing-derived passivation of stainless steel products has several significant advantages over more traditional passivation methods. A frequently asked question is exactly what are the advantages to this kind of passivation, and why it achieves better results than some of the more traditional methods, such Nitric acid.

US-based Bendix Corp. had several of its senior scientists compare electropolishing-derived passivation versus Nitric acid-derived passivation. The results were conclusive: Electropolishing-derived passivation delivered results which were a staggering 6,000 times better than those of Nitric acid-derived passivation.


The difference can be attributed to a number of factors: first, electropolishing created a better chrome-to-iron ratio on the surface of the metal subjected to electropolishing. Second, electropolishing was significantly more effective in removing contaminating agents which accumulated on the surface as a result of various mechanical and welding procedures.


Another advantage of electropolishing was the end-surface result: the study clearly showed that electropolishing created a surface which was more effectively acidic than other polishing methods used on stainless steel metals.


Electropolishing proved superior esthetically as well: an initial comparison of the results indicated that the surfaces of electropolished metals were smoother and has a chrome-like finish which was also significantly smoother than that of metals which underwent traditional polishing. Smoother surfaces are not merely more esthetic – they also reduce the chances of aggressive agent adhering to the surface later.

Finally, the electrochemical polishing neutralized the need to use hazardous or toxic chemicals thus eliminating any end-result toxic waste.


Stainless steels are often subjected to harsh wear and tear. As the use of stainless steel increases, so must the use of the most advanced technologies in the market, which can ensure optimal results. Limat, which aims to give its clients the most advanced and effective solutions, has been applying advanced electropolishing techniques for years, meant to ensure its clients that metals which undergo the electropolishing process will be more esthetic and will demonstrate higher passivation and resistance to infections.