Core Principle

Both are used to improve corrosion resistance of stainless steel, but their mechanisms and results are different.

Passivation

• Chemical treatment removing free iron from surface
• Enhances natural protective chromium-oxide layer
• Does not change dimensions or appearance
• Standard treatment for general-purpose stainless parts

Electropolishing

• Electrochemical process removing microscopic surface peaks
• Results in extremely smooth, bright, cleanable surface
• Removes small amount of material
• Required for medical, food-grade, semiconductor applications

Selection Guide:
• Passivation: All general-purpose stainless steel parts
• Electropolishing: Medical, food-grade, or applications requiring ultimate cleanliness