Cleaning

• The passivation process begins with completely removing any foreign substance, such as grease and shop debris from the freshly machined steel surface. Wiping and grinding or using degreasers and cleansers can all be used as cleaning methods.
  
  

Passivating Bath

• After rinsing with water, the steel component is placed in a passivating bath consisting of any one of several acid solutions, depending on the grade of stainless steel. The solution chosen, its concentration, immersion time, and temperature of bath all depend on the type of alloy. An unsuitable bath can damage the component. A water rinse follows the bath. Sometimes sodium hydroxide is then used to further neutralize the acid before a final water rinse.
  
  

Trained Personnel

• Since passivation involves the use hazardous chemicals, only trained and experienced workers wearing protective clothing and following correct safety procedures should be involved in the process. In addition, legal permits may be required.