What is mechanical polishing?

Mechanical polishing smooths a surface using abrasives applied in progressively finer steps until the target finish is achieved. It removes material and reshapes the macro- and micro-surface texture.

When is mechanical polishing used instead of electropolishing?

Mechanical polishing is used to remove deeper imperfections, welds, or scratches, and to prepare a surface before electropolishing. The two are often combined for the best result.

What materials does Harrison mechanically polish?

Stainless steel, aluminum, and other corrosion-resistant alloys, on parts ranging from small fittings to large fabrications.

Can mechanical polishing achieve a specific Ra finish?

Yes. Finish is controlled by abrasive sequence and process steps; specify your target Ra and applicable standard when requesting a quote.

Passivation is a chemical treatment that removes free iron and surface contaminants from stainless steel and strengthens its naturally occurring, corrosion-resistant chromium-oxide layer. It does not change part dimensions.

What is the difference between nitric and citric acid passivation?

Nitric acid is the traditional, aggressive method effective on heavy contamination. Citric acid is biodegradable and safer for medical, food, and pharmaceutical work while achieving comparable corrosion resistance. Harrison offers both.

When should stainless steel be passivated?

After machining, welding, grinding, or forming; before high-purity service; when customer or industry standards require it; and on a preventive-maintenance schedule in high-chloride environments.

Does passivation change part dimensions?

No. Passivation removes only free iron and contaminants, so there is no measurable change to base-material dimensions.

What standards does Harrison passivate to?

ASTM A967, ASTM A380, ASTM B912 (electropolishing passivation), AMS 2700, and customer-specific specifications, with copper sulfate and ferroxyl testing for verification.

Mechanical Polishing

Mechanical Polishing Services for Stainless Steel & Specialty Alloys

Mechanical polishing is the smoothing of a surface using mechanical tools and abrasives. Mechanical polishing is performed in steps with progressively finer abrasives until the desired smoothness is achieved. The precision polishing process removes material and plastically deforms the surface while it alters the macroscopic and microscopic surface texture.

Mechanical Polishing Capabilities

At Harrison Electropolishing we have the experience and expertise to meet the most stringent requirements of today's industries. Our unique process combines precision mechanical polishing techniques, the latest precision polishing equipment, several proprietary components, and over 30 years of experience to deliver the quality and service you require. We have a broad range of capabilities; from basic deburring of a cast, forged or fabricated parts, to ultra-fine finishing for high purity applications. Contact our team to get your project quoted today!

Benefits of Mechanical Polishing:

Mechanical Polishing Specifications

Name	Description
ASME BPE	Bioprocessing Equipment
NiDi No. 9012	Finishes for Stainless Steel
ASME B46.1	Surface Texture (Surfaces Roughness, Waviness and Lay)

View all Industry Standards.

More to Know

Frequently Asked Questions

What is mechanical polishing?

Mechanical polishing smooths a surface using abrasives applied in progressively finer steps until the target finish is achieved. It removes material and reshapes the macro- and micro-surface texture.

When is mechanical polishing used instead of electropolishing?

Mechanical polishing is used to remove deeper imperfections, welds, or scratches, and to prepare a surface before electropolishing. The two are often combined for the best result.

What materials does Harrison mechanically polish?

Stainless steel, aluminum, and other corrosion-resistant alloys, on parts ranging from small fittings to large fabrications.

Can mechanical polishing achieve a specific Ra finish?

Yes. Finish is controlled by abrasive sequence and process steps; specify your target Ra and applicable standard when requesting a quote.

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800-245-5707

Mechanical Polishing

Harrison Electropolishing, the Leading Electropolishing, Passivation, Oxygen Cleaning & Mechanical Polishing Company World Wide.

Electropolishing is an electrochemical process by which surface material is removed by anodic dissolution. Electropolishing removes surface material, beginning with the high points within the microscopic surface texture. By removing these points, the electropolishing process will improve the surface finish of a metal such as stainless steel, nickel, and Hastelloy, leaving a smoother and more reflective surface. Common parts and components electropolished include tanks, piping, fittings, rods, discs, large parts & surfaces, and more.