In the metal industry, the pickling process plays a key role in ensuring the quality and optimum finish of steel products. Want to find out more about how this technique influences the end result? Read on!
What is the pickling process in metal?
Pickling is a treatment designed to remove the surface oxide layers that form during hot working, taking advantage of the greater brittleness of the oxide compared to the toughness of the underlying metal. There are two main pickling methods: mechanical and chemical pickling
Mechanical pickling
Mechanical pickling involves the use of pressurized air jets containing sand or metal spheres. These jets are directed onto the surface of the steel to be treated, removing the oxide layers through mechanical abrasion. This method is particularly effective for cleaning extensive surfaces and removing persistent oxides.
Chemical pickling
Chemical pickling involves the immersion of metal products in chemical baths specially formulated to dissolve or remove oxide layers. These chemical baths contain oxidizing agents, or acids, that react with the surface oxides, dissolving them and allowing them to be removed. Compared to mechanical pickling, this technique is gentler and can be used to remove thinner oxide deposits or for products with complex or delicate shapes
Our tubes are manufactured by continuous profiling using cold-rolled, hot-rolled, galvanized, aluminized, pickled or black steel strips.