Pickling of stainless steel

Stainless steel pickling is a chemical process of removing the layer of oxides and
impurities (e.g., residues from welding or machining) from the surface of stainless
steel. This aims to restore its corrosion resistance and achieve a
uniform, clean finish. Here are the most important details:
 
What is stainless steel pickling?
 
The pickling process involves the use of special chemical solutions that react with
the surface of stainless steel, removing:
  • welding scale (chromium and iron oxides),
  • dirt and material residues,
  • surface layers of metal that could promote corrosion.
 
Pickling methods
 
  1. Immersion pickling
    • steel is immersed in a tank with a pickling solution (for elements with regular shapes).