Electropolishing is an increasingly common method for polishing and deburring ferrous and nonferrous metals. Electropolishing systems work by smoothing, polishing and deburring metal surfaces in an electrolytic bath. This process selectively removes high points on the metal surface while producing a uniform, high luster.

Electropolishing works by immersing a metal part in liquid media and subjecting it to direct current. The metal part becomes anodic (+) while another metal, usually lead, copper, or stainless steel, is used as a cathode (-). The direct current flows from the anode to the cathode, removing metal ions at a controlled rate. The amount of metal removed is dependent on the specific bath, temperature, speed and alloy being electropolished.

Unlike conventional mechanical finishing systems, this process does not smear, bend, stress or fracture the crystalline metal surface to achieve smoothness or luster. Instead, electropolishing removes metal from the surface while producing a unidirectional pattern that is stress- and occlusion-free, microscopically smooth and often highly reflective. In addition, improved corrosion resistance and passivity are achieved on many ferrous and some nonferrous alloys. This same process is used for micro- and macro-deburring, as this reverse plating process selectively removes metal ions from high points on the surface without etching it.

Note: Steven Douglas Corp. (SDC) is not an electropolishing or metal finishing company and does not offer electropolishing services. Features and specifications are subject to change without notice.