Descaling

Descaling is an important process in various industrial applications, especially in metal processing. This technique aims to remove the metal oxide coating, also known as a scale layer, from the surface of a metal workpiece. This scale layer usually forms during the heat process, for example when welding or heating metals.

The scale removal process is of great importance as the scale layer can affect the quality and properties of the metal. The scale layer can not only negatively affect the mechanical properties of the metal, but also impair the adhesion of coatings and protective layers.

Various methods are used for descaling, depending on the specific requirements of the metal workpiece and the production process. One common method is pickling, where the workpiece is immersed in an acid solution to dissolve and remove the scale layer. However, this process requires careful control to ensure that the acid does not attack the metal excessively.

Another method is mechanical descaling, in which abrasive processes such as grinding or blasting are used to remove the scale layer from the surface. This approach is particularly useful when delicate materials need to be treated with precision.

The choice of the appropriate method depends on various factors, including the type of metal, the thickness of the scale layer and the specific requirements of the end product. Descaling is a crucial step in ensuring the quality and performance of metal workpieces in various industrial applications.

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This definition is taken from the surface technology encyclopedia from Surface Technology Online. You can find many more technical terms from the surface technology industry in our lexicon overview.

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