SSC-1

Procedure for Cleaning, Descaling,

and Passivation of Stainless Steel
Parts, Equipment, and Systems

Reference Standard: ASTM A380

Date: July 22, 2021

Revision #: 2

Certified by: __________________

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1.0 Scope
1.1 This specification covers the procedure and acceptance standards for cleaning, pickling and
passivation of type 304/316 stainless steel alloys.
1.2 The reference documents used to establish the procedure is: ASTM A380

2.0 Personnel Qualification

2.1 All quality inspection and supervisory personnel who are involved with the performance
and documentation of the procedure are responsible for the requirements stated herein.

3.0 Examination procedure

3.1 Equipment
3.1.1 Stainless steel wire brushes.
3.1.2 Company approved degreaser, nitric and hydrofluoric acid, and cleaning
agents.
3.1.3 Company approved pickling paste, gels, and solutions.
3.1.4 High pressure water.

4.0 Preparation for cleaning

4.1 Sand and or wire brush all welds or heat affected zones prior to cleaning.

5.0 Procedure for cleaning

5.1 High pressure wash with approved soap/degreasing solutions.
5.2 Inspect tank/vessel for cleanliness.
5.3 Sand and wire brush any scratches or any visible areas of contamination.
5.4 Wash with approved soap/degreasing solution.

6.0 Pickling
6.1 Apply nitric and hydrofluoric compound to all areas to be treated.
6.2 Rinse tank/vessel with high pressure water to remove all acid residues from the surface.

7.0 Passivation
7.1 Circulate approved nitric acid solution via a pump and spray ball installed at the top of the
tank/vessel.
7.2 Rinse tank/vessel with high pressure water using care to remove all acid residues from the
surface.
7.3 Inspect tank/vessel for complete passivation or poorly cleaned surfaces and rework any
areas as required.

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