STAINLESS STEEL TREATMENTS
A leader in the metal finishing industry since 1928, Keystone Corporation provides high quality Pickling, Passivation and Pickle Passivate services for stainless steel parts and weldments. Our lines are built to handle both large and small work pieces, with lifting capacity up to three tons.
WHAT IS PASSIVATION FOR STAINLESS STEEL?
Stainless steel is an inherently corrosion resistant material. However, when stainless steel is machined, formed or fabricated, free iron can be introduced to the surface that can corrode independent of the base material. Proper Passivation of stainless steel with an oxidizing acid such as nitric acid removes this free iron and promotes the growth of a thin, dense protective oxide layer which maximizes the corrosion resistance of the stainless steel.
It is important to note that stainless steel is corrosion resistant but not corrosion proof. The degree of corrosion resistance of a stainless steel alloy is a function of the alloying composition, heat treatment, internal stresses and passivation treatment. Selection of the correct passivation process is determined by the stainless steel alloy involved and by the specification requirements. Our Engineering team can assist with selection of the passivation process that is best suited for your requirements.
SPECIFICATIONS
Keystone Corporation Passivation meets the following specifications:
- AMS-QQ-P-35 - Types I-VI
- AMS 2700 - Method 1 Nitric Passivation Type 1-6
- ASTM A967
- ASTM A380
- ISO 16048
- Commercial and customer generated specifications
WHAT IS PICKLING AND PASSIVATION FOR STAINLESS STEEL?
Pickling and passivation are often used together to remove contaminates and oxidation, improving corrosion resistance and extending the life and overall value of stainless steel components. While chemical Passivation is intended to remove free iron and surface contaminates, it is ineffective at removing existing oxidation, weld oxides, scale and heavy contaminates. Pickling utilizes more aggressive acids than those used in passivation. The chemicals utilized for Pickling of stainless steel remove oxidation, weld oxides and scale and are capable of etching the base material. Keystone Corporation also offers Passivation services, without Pickling, for components that are free of scale and existing oxides.
SPECIFICATIONS FOR PICKLE PASSIVATION OF STAINLESS STEEL
Keystone Corporation’s Pickle Passivation meets the following specifications:
- ASTM A380
- ASTM G93, Standard Practice for Cleaning Methods and Cleanliness Levels for Material and Equipment Used in Oxygen-Enriched Environments
- Commercial and customer generated specifications
CONTACT KEYSTONE FOR PASSIVATION AND PICKLE PASSIVATION
For more than 90 years, Keystone Corporation has assisted customers in completing commercial orders ranging from a few specialized pieces to high volume applications. All finishes are available for both Rack and Barrel applications. We maintain superior quality control through the entire finishing process, ensuring top quality Pickling and Passivation at an affordable cost for any project. Contact Keystone today to receive a personalized quotation based on your specific requirements.
