Ferritic Stainless Steel Surface Treatment Technology
Stainless steel is a family of iron alloys that contain a minimum of 10.5% chromium. This alloying element imparts corrosion and oxidization resistance during continuous exposure in operating temperature up to 2100F (1149℃). While the corrosion resistance of stainless steel can be quite high, its ability to resist oxidation is inferior to its ability to resist corrosion. In some circumstances, oxidation resistance can be improved through the application of a proper surface treatment.
The surface treatment of ferritic stainless steel is one of the key aspects of choosing the right material and of providing an optimal service life. The two main types of surface treatments are pickling and passivation. The pickling process is used to remove any scale or surface impurities that can compromise the overall integrity of the material. Passivation is a process of forming a protective oxide film on the material in order to prevent oxidation of the metal surface. Both passivation and pickling should be regularly performed to the ferritic stainless steel to optimize its performance in terms of reliability, long service life and cost savings.
Pickling has played an important role in the production of ferritic stainless steel for a long time. It is a process used to remove scale and rust from the surface of the steel before it is put into service. The pickling process involves the use of an acid solution to dissolve scale, oxides, and other surface impurities from the steel surface. The acid also helps to remove any corrosion-causing residues, such as chlorides and sulfates, from the surface of the steel.
Passivation is another process used to improve the corrosion resistance of ferritic stainless steel. This process involves the passive formation of an oxide film on the surface of the steel. This oxide film helps to create a barrier between the metal surface and the corrosive environment, therefore improving its corrosion resistance properties.
Both pickling and passivation processes can be carried out either manually or through the use of specialized machines. When performed manually, it is important to ensure that the correct safety measures are taken and that the operators are adequately trained and aware of any potential risks.
In conclusion, the surface treatment of ferritic stainless steel is an important aspect of material selection and performance. Proper surface treatments, such as pickling and passivation, can help to improve the longevity and reliability of ferritic stainless steel components, as well as reduce maintenance costs over time.
