Three Steps to Electropolishing Characterization | Limat | 02.07.09


Many clients have suffered over the years from lack of actual information when choosing a metal polishing technique to suit their needs. The lack of exact traits hindered their ability to choose between the various options, and sometimes even damaged the final result.

Here are three simple steps to electropolishing characterization for various industries:

The first step to achieving quality electrochemical polishing must include accurate alloy characterization. For example:  stainless steal metals of the 300 Series have a better reaction to electropolishing than others, 316-grade stainless steal has a better reaction than 304-grade stainless steal, etc; while 303-grade stainless steal's composition includes sulfuric components, which may hinder the perfect result. The best way to avoid and overcome such hurdles is to consult Limat's experts.

The second step is choosing the final application finish for which the metal is prepped. The metal may need to undergo manual polishing as an interim-stage: for instance, electropolishing reduces the levels of radium on the surface of manually polished metal by 50%, but some factors may aid or impede final radium readings.
Companies applying high quality electropolishing use samples of the metals which are supposed to undergo the process in order to determine what the final finish should be.
 
The third step is a close examination of any polishing method which may yield the desired result. The quality of the finish achieved by electrochemical polishing is directly linked to pre-polished surface quality. Electropolishing cannot remove any preexisting defects present on the surface of the metal. Here too, consulting with Limat's experts will help to ensure the final finish will meet the client's expectations.

The absence of accurate characterization in the electropolishing process did not escape industry experts: both an independent research facility and a private company in the United States have conducted a study meant to set quality standards. This study laid the foundations for WFS – on of the key standards in electropolishing finish, as well as several criteria meant to help the clients define their finish needs.

For more information on electropolishing quality standards click here