Pickling vs. Passivation

While 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 are capable of dissolving oxidation, weld oxides and scale and is capable of etching the base material.  Passivation is a “cleaner”, more subtle process.  Passivation chemicals are not aggressive enough to dissolve surface oxides, thus, pickling may be used prior to, or in lieu of, passivation.

Passivation is suitable for components which are free scale and existing oxides.  Newly machined components of typically passivated.  Pickling is suitable for new or used materials which are welded, cast, heat treated or exhibit existing oxides.

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