Pickling and Electropolishing – Glass Bead Blasting and Passivation

Surface Treatment for the Highest Purity Requirements

In pharmaceutical technology, the quality of surface finishing is a key factor for the safety, functionality, and service life of components. PSA specializes in the precise processing of components up to a diameter of 600 mm – using state-of-the-art technology and deep expertise in surface treatment.

Pickling – Removal of Scale and Contaminants

Pickling uses a defined acid treatment to specifically remove scale, discolorations, and contaminants. This produces a metallically pure surface, free from foreign particles – the ideal foundation for further processing steps. Especially in medical engineering, this is indispensable for ensuring flawless biocompatibility.

Electropolishing – Microfine Smoothing for Hygienic Surfaces

Electropolishing is an electrochemical process that systematically removes the outermost layer of material. This results in smooth, pore-free, and shiny surfaces with significantly reduced roughness. Depending on the surface preparation, we achieve roughness values down to Ra 0.4 µm with optimized grinding processes. Advantages for pharmaceutical applications:

  • Minimization of germ and particle adhesion
  • Increased corrosion resistance
  • Improved cleaning and reliable sterilizability
  • Higher fatigue and crack resistance by eliminating microscopic notches

Glass Bead Blasting – Precise Surface Finishing for Medical Technology

Glass bead blasting is a gentle blasting process in which surfaces are uniformly treated with fine glass beads. This produces a matte, homogeneous surface with no material removal or microstructural changes. Advantages for medical technology:

  • Uniform surface structure – reduces reflections and provides a high-quality, matte appearance
  • Gentle processing – no change in material geometry, no edge rounding
  • Optimized cleaning properties – the homogeneous structure allows reliable sterilization of components
  • Improved stress relief – blasting relieves surface tension and can increase service life

This method is ideal for components where, in addition to function, the aesthetic appeal and hygienic suitability are paramount – e.g., surgical instruments, implant components, or housings for medical devices.

Passivation – Protection through an Optimized Chromium Oxide Layer

During passivation, the natural protective layer of stainless steel is specifically regenerated and reinforced. The homogeneous chromium oxide layer provides reliable corrosion protection – a decisive requirement for use in medical technology, where absolute material resistance and long-term safety are essential.

 

Your Advantages with PSA

Processing of components up to 600 mm diameter

  • High process reliability through validated procedures
  • Complete documentation according to pharmaceutical standards
  • Years of experience with sensitive components for pharmaceutical technology

With our processes, we ensure that your components are not only visually impressive, but also meet the strict regulatory requirements in medical technology.

back