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A review of the different aspects, theories, and recent developments in the electropolishing of stainless steel

VM Gobinath, K Annamalai and A Kathirvel
Pages: 1-11Published: 24 Mar 2026
DOI: https://doi.org/10.33430/V32N1THIE-2024-0037
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Gobinath VM, Annamalai K and Kathirvel A, A review of the different aspects, theories, and recent developments in the electropolishing of stainless steel, HKIE Transactions, Vol. 32, No. 1 (Regular Issue), Article THIE-2024-0037.R1, 2026, https://doi.org/10.33430/V32N1THIE-2024-0037

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Abstract:

Electropolishing is a surface finishing process, widely used in industry to provide clean, smooth, and corrosion-resistant surfaces on metal and alloys, especially steel. The general mechanism of electropolishing is discussed in this review paper followed by different theories proposed to explain the process starting from viscous theory to the most recently developed oxidation–dissolution theory. Since this process involves chemical and electricity reactions, it is quite complicated to understand using the existing theories. The effect of different factors like electrolyte types, processing time, operating voltages, etc. on the electropolishing of stainless steel is also discussed in detail. The most recent developments in electropolishing techniques like magneto electropolishing and electropolishing of additively manufactured steel components are also reviewed in this paper. All the techniques are compared with the classic electropolishing technique with respect to their processing conditions and output on the steel surface. Finally, the limitations and future perspectives of the currently available techniques are also discussed.

Keywords:

Electropolishing, Surface Finish, Corrosion, Magneto Electropolishing

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