Elektropolieren

This book focuses in particular on methods for the electropolishing of stainless steel, steel, brass, copper, aluminium and titanium. Drawing on his many years of experience in research and development in the field of electrochemical ablation, the author presents mechanisms of action, influencing parameters and optimisation options. These can often be transferred to comparable alloys, although it may be necessary to adjust and optimise the processing parameters.

The book compiles results and findings obtained through the author's own experiments and by studying the current literature. Among other things, it is based on various publications by the author on the subject.

After looking at the manufacturing process and basic relationships, the influences of various processing parameters (such as electrolyte composition, electrolyte load, electrolyte temperature, current density and processing time) are considered. Possible manufacturing processes are also explained. Pre- and post-treatment are also explained. Furthermore, possible active pairs or metal-electrolyte combinations for selected metals or alloys are described. In addition, the manufacturing results achieved for different selected active pairs with different processing parameters are explained. Naturally, only a small part of this extensive topic can be covered here.

Electropolishing enables the production of metallic surfaces that are smooth and shiny. These have a wide range of applications. Accordingly, the manufacturing process is also referred to as electrochemical polishing or smoothing. The resulting surfaces have low specific expansion, relatively low corrosion susceptibility, good cleaning properties and low germ adhesion. The process can also be used for deburring. In addition, it is used for materials science investigations.

Electropolishing is used, for example, in plant, pipeline and container construction. The outstanding properties of the process are particularly evident in the food and beverage industry and in the pharmaceutical industry. The process is also used in medical technology. Implants are electrolytically smoothed when smooth surfaces are required. For example, vascular supports (stents) are electropolished. Optical properties such as reflectivity or gloss, on the other hand, tend to play a role in decorative applications. Depending on the required properties of the finished component or workpiece, targeted optimisation of the manufacturing parameters is necessary.

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