Stainless Steel Passivation

Citric and nitric passivation of stainless steel to ASTM A967, AMS 2700, and ASTM A380, with in-house salt spray and copper sulfate verification. No coating is applied, so dimensions and surface finish are unchanged.

Wire basket of stainless steel machined parts being lifted from a passivation bath
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Process Detail

Passivation at West-Tech

West-Tech Finishing Inc. provides citric and nitric acid passivation for stainless steel components that require reliable corrosion resistance and a clean, contamination-free surface. Passivation removes free iron and contaminants introduced during machining, fabrication, or handling, allowing the stainless steel's natural passive layer to perform as intended.

Because no coating is applied, dimensions and surface finish remain unchanged, making it well suited for close-tolerance and precision-machined components. Processing is available to AMS 2700, ASTM A967, and ASTM A380, with the method selected according to the stainless steel grade, drawing, specification, and program requirements.

Effective passivation depends on both proper processing and verification. West-Tech offers in-house salt spray and copper sulfate testing to verify results where required, giving customers greater control over quality and reducing reliance on additional outside suppliers. By removing embedded free iron before components enter assembly or service, passivation helps reduce the risk of premature staining, surface corrosion, and rejected parts.

Each job is processed according to the required material, specification, passivation method, and verification criteria to help ensure consistent, repeatable results for the intended application. Standard lead time is typically 4 to 5 business days, with expedited service available when production schedules require faster turnaround.

For an accurate quote, include the stainless steel grade, applicable specification, required passivation method, part dimensions, quantity, and any testing or verification requirements with your RFQ.

Technical Summary

StandardsAMS 2700, ASTM A967, ASTM A380
ProcessesCitric and nitric
VerificationSalt spray, copper sulfate
Dimensional ImpactNo coating buildup
AppearanceNo intended cosmetic change
Standard Lead Time4–5 business days
Expedited ServiceAvailable on request
Production RangePrototype to full production

Discuss Your Finishing Requirement

Send your drawing and specification and we will review your requirements.