Pickling

Pickling uses a controlled acid solution — typically a blend of nitric and hydrofluoric acid or other formulations — to dissolve heat tint, weld scale, and oxide layers from stainless steel surfaces. It is commonly performed as a precursor to passivation, ensuring the surface is fully clean before the passive layer is restored.

Pure Source performs pickling as both a standalone service and as part of a combined pickle-and-passivate process. We control acid concentration, temperature, and dwell time to achieve complete scale removal without over-etching the substrate.

After pickling, the surface is thoroughly rinsed and can be immediately passivated to ensure the stainless steel meets corrosion resistance specifications. We follow ASTM A380 guidance for acid cleaning procedures.