Abstract

Pickling of metals and metal alloys involves the use of chemical cleaning agents to remove oxides from metal surfaces. The oxides may be in the form of corrosion by-products or heat treatment scales. Chemical pickling is an extremely effective and economical method for oxide removal, particularly for intricate shapes not readily cleaned mechanically. The choice of acid or alkali pickling product is generally dictated by the base metal or alloy that is to be cleaned. Sulfuric acid is the most commonly used pickling agent for ferrous metals. Mixtures of acids are often a better choice for nonferrous alloys.