Pickling

Pickling in surface engineering refers to a process in which metal surfaces are chemically treated to remove impurities, oxidation layers, rust, dirt and other unwanted deposits. This process is often used to prepare the surface of metal parts prior to painting, coating or welding. The goal is to obtain a clean, smooth, and corrosion-resistant surface that improves the adhesion of coatings and extends the life of metal parts.

The pickling technique used in surface engineering can vary depending on the requirements and the material, but it usually includes the following steps:

1.  Cleaning: First, metal surfaces are cleaned to remove dirt, grease, oil and other contaminants. This can be done by rinsing, washing or chemical cleaning agents.
2. Pickling: The actual pickling process involves applying a pickling solution to the surface of the metal. This pickling solution often contains acids such as hydrochloric acid or sulfuric acid, which remove the unwanted deposits and oxidation layers.
3. Rinsing: After pickling, metal surfaces are thoroughly rinsed with water to remove excess pickling solution and ensure that no residue remains on the surface.
4. Passivation: In some cases, passivation is performed after pickling to apply a protective layer to the surface.

Pickling technology can be applied to various metals such as steel, stainless steel, aluminum and others. It plays an important role in industries such as metal fabrication, automotive, aerospace, and many others where metal parts are manufactured and used. The pickling process not only provides improved surface quality, but also helps maintain the structural integrity of metal parts.