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, leaving a smoother and more reflective surface.

Electropolishing Process

Electropolishing is accomplished by creating an electrochemical cell in which the material to be polished is charged anodically. A cathode is formed to mirror the geometry of the work-surface and the two are submerged in a heated electrolyte bath. When a DC current is applied, the electrical charge forces metal ions to be dissolved from the stainless steel work-surface.

Prior to Electropolishing

The key to the electropolishing process is the difference in current density across the surface. Within the microscopic surface profile, the current density is greater at the high points and lesser at the low points. The rate of the electropolishing reaction is directly proportional to the current density. The increased current density at the raised points forces the metal to dissolve faster at these points and thus tends to level the surface material. After the electropolishing treatment, the work-piece is passed through a series of steps to neutralize, rinse, clean and dry the surfaces.

Electropolishing Benefits

Electropolishing delivers a smoother, more reflective surface that reduces product adhesion and improves surface cleanability. Perhaps more importantly, electropolishing preferentially dissolves free iron, inclusions, and embedded particles from the surface of the work-piece. This process improves the near surface chemistry of the material, and promotes the formation of an improvedcorrosion resistant surface layer. Please see the full description of each of electropolishing's benefits.