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Electropolishing
Description of Electropolishing Process
Electropolishing is the precision controlled electrochemical removal of surface metal, resulting in a brilliant "mirror like" appearance with improved chromium enriched metallurgical surface properties. Sometimes referred as "reverse plating," the process has a levelling effect, which produces smoothness and increased reflectivity. More importantly, the deformed, amorphous outer layer of the metal is removed, leaving a chromium-rich, passive surface free of imbedded contaminants such as iron and work-induced residual stresses from machining and forming. The process is normally safe, does not cause pitting or etching under controlled conditions, in contrast to pickling or acidic cleaning, EP will not introduce hydrogen embrittlement. Electropolishing will remove hydrogen from the surface of the part, making it difficult for bacteria to grow. The ability of precision control of material stock removal, plus or minus .0001" makes it an attractive process for precision medical, semi-conductor and aerospace components. The process is most commonly used on Stainless steel substrates, Aluminium substrates and Titanium. However... new technology is enabling finishing companies to process other substrates utilizing proprietary solutions.
| Major Industries Served: | Materials Processed Frequently: | Parts Processed Frequently: |
- Medical
- Pharmaceutical
- Aerospace
- Automotive
- Electronics
- Marine
- Dental
- Food & Beverage
- Nuclear
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- Stainless Steel (All series)
- Aluminum
- Titanium
- Nitinol
- Silver
- Carbon Steel
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- Medical Implants
- Endoscopic instruments
- Hygienic components
- Vessels
- Wire Products
- Bolts and Fasteners
- Valves & Fittings
- High purity gas delivery components
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TMF can meet most specifications: ASTM B-912, QQ-P-35, A 380 and many more.
Call one of TMF's Electropolishing Engineers today... to see how we can solve your surface problems and help your bottom line. 1.800.380.3371 706.779.3371 FAX: 706.779.3374 *At TMF, we utilize our own proprietary electropolishing solutions, in contrast to our competitors who utilize generic formulations.
Other Processes TMF offers to our valued customers.
- Passivation
- Electroburning
- Electrosharpening
- On-Site Polishing
- On-Site Passivation
- Large Size Capacity
Surface Profile of part after TMF Proprietary Electropolishing process…
The result of electropolishing is shown in the following diagrams showing the effect on the surface leveling of the metal: Improved surface profile, stress relieved part, and contaminant free surface.
| Before | After |
| Surface profile of work piece before electropolishing |
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Action of electropolishing demonstrating the leveling effect and chrome-enriched surface. |
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| 2B S.S. Sheet |
| Before | After |
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Photographs of Electropolished Parts...
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