Electropolishing
电解抛光
Electrochemical micro-smoothing producing mirror-bright, ultra-clean surfaces ideal for medical and semiconductor applications.
Electropolishing is an electrochemical process that removes surface irregularities at a microscopic level, producing an ultra-smooth, mirror-bright finish. It is essentially the reverse of electroplating — the part acts as the anode in an electrolytic cell, and metal is selectively dissolved from surface high points (peaks), dramatically reducing surface roughness.
The process also passivates stainless steel simultaneously, creating an exceptionally clean surface with high chromium-to-iron ratio in the passive layer — superior to mechanical passivation. This makes it the finishing process of choice for medical implants, pharmaceutical process equipment, semiconductor wetbench components, and food contact surfaces.
Active Treatment electropolishes 300-series and 400-series stainless steel, as well as aluminium and copper alloys.
Key Benefits
- Reduces surface roughness by up to 50%
- Mirror-bright aesthetic finish
- Superior passivation versus mechanical polishing
- Removes burrs and micro-cracks
- FDA and GMP compliant for food and pharma
Specifications
| Substrate | 300-series stainless, 400-series stainless, aluminium, copper |
|---|---|
| Metal removal | 5–40 µm total (both sides) |
| Typical Ra improvement | From 0.8 µm to 0.2 µm |
| Surface roughness reduction | Up to 50% |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much metal does electropolishing remove?
Typically 5–40 µm of metal is removed uniformly from all surfaces. For close-tolerance parts, oversize the pre-polish dimension accordingly. We can advise on allowance for your specific geometry.
Is electropolishing the same as mechanical polishing?
No. Mechanical polishing physically abrades the surface, embedding particles and creating directional scratches. Electropolishing dissolves metal electrochemically, removing the worked layer and providing a clean, isotropic surface with no embedded particles.
Can electropolishing remove deep scratches?
Electropolishing removes micro-scratches and fine machine marks effectively. However, deep scratches, tool marks, or pits visible to the naked eye will not be fully removed — they require mechanical pre-polishing first.
Is electropolished stainless better than passivated stainless?
Yes. Electropolishing simultaneously electropolishes and passivates, resulting in a higher Cr:Fe ratio in the passive layer and a cleaner, smoother surface than acid passivation alone. It is the preferred finishing method for pharmaceutical and semiconductor applications.
What Ra surface finish can I expect after electropolishing?
Starting from a machined surface (Ra 0.8–1.6 µm), electropolishing typically achieves Ra 0.1–0.4 µm. Starting from a mechanically polished surface (Ra 0.2–0.4 µm), we can achieve Ra <0.1 µm (mirror finish).
Request a Quote
Contact Active Treatment Pte Ltd in Singapore for Electropolishing. Call +65 6352 9846 or email activetreatment88@yahoo.com.sg.