USA Catalog 2009-2010 - Lumascape

88
Machining stainless steel disrupts the
natural Chromium Oxide (Cr 2
O 3
) layer.
Chromium Oxide gives stainless steel its
superior corrosion resistance.
After machining, some carbide deposits
and other impurities are left over.
Pickling - This process cleans the surface
of all impurities.
Polishing - This process smooths the
surface, so chlorides and other active
particles cannot become lodged on the
surface.
Passivation - This is the final stage in the
process. Passivation reforms a layer of
Cr 2
O 3
of even thickness over the surface,
for maximum corrosion resistance.