--- title: "Electropolishing: Improve Mechanically-Finished Ra Results by 50% | Able" description: Learn how electropolishing contributes to Ra (Roughness Average) improvement, removing the fine mechanical polishing lines that can be hard to remove image: https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/hubfs/electropolishing-ra-results.jpg --- - [**Free Sample**](https://go.ableelectropolishing.com/free-sample-offer) - [**Request Quote**](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/request-a-quote/) - - - - - - - ![Able Electropolishing](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/wp-content/themes/able/img/phone-icon.png) [(888) 868-2900 |](tel:1-888-868-2900) - ITAR Registered - [![ISO 9001 Certification](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/NQA-ISO-9001-Logo-ANAB.jpg)](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/ISO-9001-Certificate.pdf) - [![ISO 13485 Certification](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/NQA-ISO-13485-Logo-ANAB.jpg)](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/ISO-13485-Certificate.pdf) - [![AS9100 Certification](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/NQA-AS9100-Logo-ANAB.png)](https://ableep.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/23321_05.19.25-AS9100-2016.pdf) [![Able Electropolishing](https://ableep.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Able-Anniversary-Logo-Updated.png)](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/) - [Services](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/services/electropolishing/) - Col-1 - [Electropolishing](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/electropolishing/) - Benefits - [Corrosion Resistance](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/benefits-of-electropolishing/corrosion-resistance/) - [Microfinishing](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/benefits-of-electropolishing/microfinishing/) - [Deburring](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/benefits-of-electropolishing/deburring/) - [Ultracleaning & Decorative Finishing](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/industry-solutions/ultra-high-purity/) - [Fatigue Life Improvement](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/benefits-of-electropolishing/fatigue-life-improvement/) - [What Is Electropolishing?](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/what-is-electropolishing-and-how-does-it-work/) - [Material Removal Control](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/resources/material-removal-control/) - [Electropolishing vs. Passivation](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/resources/passivation-vs-electropolishing/) - [Passivation, Pickling or Electropolishing](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/resources/passivation-pickling-electropolishing/) - [How to Specify Electropolishing](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/specifying-electropolishing/) - [Bulk Electropolishing for Fasteners](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/automation-enhanced-bulk-electropolishing-for-fasteners/) - [Passivation](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/passivation/) - [Nitric](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/alloys-electropolished/aluminum/) - [Citric](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/al6xn-electropolishing) - [Brite](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/alloys-electropolished/brass/) - [In-House Testing & Analysis](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/in-house-testing-and-analysis-for-critical-metal-parts/) - [Vacuum Vapor Degreasing Services](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/vacuum-vapor-degreasing-service/) - [The Able Electropolishing Process](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/electropolishing-process/) - [Turnkey Sourcing Service](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/turnkey-sourcing-service/) - [Access our Extensive Network of Reliable Suppliers & Finishers](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/turnkey-sourcing-service/) - Col-2 - Technical Guide: Passivation, Pickling or Electropolishing? - ![](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/ppe-guide-menu_v2.png) - [Download](https://go.ableelectropolishing.com/passivation-pickling-or-electropolishing-guide?__hstc=51647990.0a919fe92be7e1034b7c346e0750ab88.1680609944771.1681219093451.1681452951062.7&__hssc=51647990.3.1681452951062&__hsfp=2175177973) - [Alloys](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/alloys-electropolished/) - Col-1 - Electropolishing eliminates microscopic imperfections for the following alloys: - inner-col-1 - [Stainless Steel 200 & 300 Series](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/alloys-electropolished/200-300-series-stainless-steel/) - [Stainless Steel 400 Series](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/alloys-electropolished/400-series-stainless-steel/) - [Aluminum](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/alloys-electropolished/aluminum/) - [AL6XN](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/al6xn-electropolishing/) - [Carbon Steel](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/alloys-electropolished/carbon-steels/) - [Cobalt 21 & Cobalt-Chrome](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/cobalt-21-cobalt-chrome-electropolishing-services/) - [Copper & Brass](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/alloys-electropolished/copper-and-brass/) - [Elgiloy](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/elgiloy-electropolishing/) - [Hastelloy](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/hastelloy-electropolishing/) - [Haynes 214 & 230](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/haynes-214-haynes-230-electropolishing/) - [Molybdenum](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/molybdenum-electropolishing/) - [MP35N](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/mp35n-electropolishing/) - inner-col-2 - [Nickel](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/alloys-electropolished/nickel/) - [Nitinol](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/alloys-electropolished/nitinol/) - [Niobium](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/niobium-electropolishing/) - [Tantalum](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/tantalum-electropolishing/) - [Titanium](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/alloys-electropolished/titanium/) - [Tungsten](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/tungsten-electropolishing/) - [TZM](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/tzm-electropolishing/) - [Exotic & Other Metal](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/alloys-electropolished/unusual-stainless-steel/) - [Precipitating Hardening Grade Stainless Steel](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/alloys-electropolished/precipitating-hardening-grade/) - Col-2 - TECHNICAL GUIDE: YOUR SOLUTION TO METAL SURFACE PROBLEMS - ![](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/hubfs/able-menu-images/solution-guide.png) - [Download](https://go.ableelectropolishing.com/solutions-for-metal-surface-problems) - [Industries](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/industry-solutions/) - Col-1 - [Aerospace](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/industry-solutions/aerospace/) - [Automotive](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/industry-solutions/automotive/) - [Consumer Appliances](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/industry-solutions/consumer-appliances/) - [Dental](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/industry-solutions/dental/) - [Electronics](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/industry-solutions/electronics/) - [Fire Safety](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/industry-solutions/fire-safety/) - [Food & Beverage](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/industry-solutions/food-and-beverages/) - [Hydraulic & Pneumatic](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/industry-solutions/hydraulic-pneumatic/) - Col-2 - [Laser, Optics & Photonics](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/industry-solutions/laser-photonics-industry/) - [Marine](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/industry-solutions/marine-industry/) - [Meat & Poultry Processing](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/industry-solutions/electropolishing-meat-poultry-industry/) - [Medical Devices, Implants & Surgical Instruments](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/industry-solutions/medical-device-manufacturing/) - [National Labs & Higher Education](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/industry-solutions/national-labshigher-education/) - [Pharmaceutical](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/industry-solutions/pharmaceutical/) - [Power & Grid Infrastructure](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/industry-solutions/power-grid-energy-infrastructure-electropolishing/) - [Semiconductor](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/industry-solutions/semiconductor-industry/) - Col-3 - Technical Guide: Metal Finishing for the Medical Industry - ![](https://ableep.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/medical-cover.png) - [Download](https://go.ableelectropolishing.com/electropolishing-medical-industry) - [Blog](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/) - RECENT POSTS - [How Electropolishing Eliminates Microburrs](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/how-electropolishing-eliminates-microburrs) - [Electropolishing for Refractory Metals](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/improve-the-finish-fit-function-of-refractory-metal-parts-able) - [How Electropolishing Delivers a Defect-Free Surface Finish and Added Longevity for Hard-Working Springs](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/how-electropolishing-delivers-a-defect-free-surface-finish-and-added-longevity-for-hard-working-springs) - Col-2 - Technical Guide: Your Solution to Metal Surface Problems - ![](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/hs-fs/hubfs/solution-guide.png?width=600&name=solution-guide.png) - [Download](https://go.ableelectropolishing.com/solutions-for-metal-surface-problems) - Col-3 - Technical Guide: Passivation, Pickling or Electropolishing? - ![](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/ppe-guide-menu_v2.png) - [Download](https://go.ableelectropolishing.com/passivation-pickling-or-electropolishing-guide?__hstc=51647990.0a919fe92be7e1034b7c346e0750ab88.1680609944771.1681452951062.1681460305179.8&__hssc=51647990.1.1681460305179&__hsfp=2175177973) - [Videos](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/resources/videos/) - [Featured Videos](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/resources/videos/) - [Before & After Electropolishing Videos](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/resources/before-and-after-electropolishing-videos/) - [Learning Center](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/resources/) - Col-1 - [Electropolishing 101 Webinar](https://go.ableelectropolishing.com/en/webinar) - [Case Studies](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/resources/electropolishing-case-studies/) - [White Papers](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/resources/white-papers/) - [Electropolishing for Metal Fasteners](https://go.ableelectropolishing.com/metal-fasteners-whitepaper) - [Electropolishing to Improve Corrosion Protection](https://go.ableelectropolishing.com/electropolishing-to-improve-corrosion-protection) - [Advantages of Electropolishing for Deburring Metal Parts](https://go.ableelectropolishing.com/deburring-whitepaper) - [Electropolishing & Passivation Standards](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/resources/electropolishing-passivation-standards/) - [AMS 2700 Passivation](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/resources/standards/ams-2700-passivation/) - [ASTM A380 Passivation](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/resources/standards/astm-a380-passivation/) - [ASTM A967 Passivation](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/resources/standards/astm-a967-passivation/) - [ASTM F86 Passivation](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/resources/standards/astm-f86-passivation/) - [ASTM F86 Electropolishing](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/resources/standards/astm-f86-electropolishing/) - [ASTM B912 Electropolishing](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/resources/standards/astm-b912-electropolishing/) - [ISO 15730 Electropolishing](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/resources/standards/iso-15730-electropolishing/) - [FAQ](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/resources/frequently-asked-questions/) - [Passivation vs. Electropolishing](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/resources/passivation-vs-electropolishing/) - [Passivation, Pickling or Electropolishing](https://go.ableelectropolishing.com/passivation-pickling-or-electropolishing-guide) - Col-2 - [Electropolishing Before & Afters](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/resources/case-studies/) - [Industry Technical Guides](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/resources/technical-guides/) - [Electropolishing for the Medical Industry](https://go.ableelectropolishing.com/electropolishing-medical-industry) - [Electropolishing for the Aerospace Industry](https://go.ableelectropolishing.com/electropolishing-aerospace-industry) - [Electropolishing for the Food Industry](https://go.ableelectropolishing.com/finishing-food-industry) - [Videos](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/resources/videos/) - [Featured Videos](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/resources/videos/) - [Before & After Electropolishing Videos](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/resources/before-and-after-electropolishing-videos/) - [What Is Electropolishing](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/resources/what-is-electropolishing/) - [Electropolishing 101 Quiz](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/resources/electropolishing-101-quiz/) - [Blog](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/) - [State-of-the-Art Automation for Customized, Consistently High-Quality Results](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/electropolishing-automation-ensures-consist-quality-able) - [Why Able? Reliable Results for Critically Important Parts](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/why-able-reliable-results-for-critically-important-parts) - [Get Products to Market Faster with Cost Effective Contract Cleaning Services](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/get-products-to-market-faster-with-cost-effective-contract-cleaning) - Col-3 - Technical Guide: Your Solution to Metal Surface Problems - ![](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/hs-fs/hubfs/solution-guide.png?width=600&name=solution-guide.png) - [Download](https://go.ableelectropolishing.com/solutions-for-metal-surface-problems) - [About](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/about-us/) - Col-1 - [Certifications](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/about-us/certifications/) - [History](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/about-us/history/) - [In the News](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/about-us/press/) - [Our Process](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/about-us/our-process/) - [Quality Control](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/about-us/quality-control/) - [R&D Support](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/finish-first/) - [Sustainability](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/about-us/sustainability/) - [Careers](https://go.ableelectropolishing.com/jobs?__hstc=51647990.0a919fe92be7e1034b7c346e0750ab88.1680609944771.1681452951062.1681460305179.8&__hssc=51647990.1.1681460305179&__hsfp=2175177973) - Col-2 - Line Card - ![](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/able-line-card-2025.png) - [Download](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Able-Line-Card-Update-2025.pdf) - Col-3 - ISO 9001: 2015 - ![](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/ISO-9001.png) - [Download](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/ISO-9001-Certificate.pdf) - Col-4 - ISO 13485: 2016 - ![](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/ISO-13485.png) - [Download](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/ISO-13485-Certificate.pdf) - Col-4 - AS9100: 2016 - ![](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/AS-9100-Certificate.png) - [Download](https://ableep.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/23321_05.19.25-AS9100-2016.pdf) - [Contact](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/contact/) # Electropolishing: Improve Mechanically-Finished Ra Results by 50% June 23, 2021 During our [lunch and learn sessions](https://go.ableelectropolishing.com/en/lunch-and-learn), many customers are interested in what they can achieve in terms of Ra (Roughness Average) improvement with electropolishing.   In the microfinishing chart displayed here, you can see a sliding scale in terms of material removal to Ra improvement on the left column.   ![Microfinishing Diagram](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/hs-fs/hubfs/microfinishing-diagram.jpg?width=800&name=microfinishing-diagram.jpg) Several key things to note related to the diagram: 1. Electropolishing performs best when we begin the process with a 32Ra or better 2. Electropolishing typically tops out at 4Ra in terms of microfinish improvement 3. The electropolishing material removal process can be controlled by +/- .0002" total material for most alloys or half that per surface 4. .001" total material removal or .0005" per surface should achieve approximately a 50% improvement in the microfinish. We process many parts that are higher than a 32Ra for many different industries. In some cases, the microfinish improvement will be 30-40% if we are beginning the process with a rougher starting point. For instance, if we start at 100Ra, electropolishing will improve the Ra but will not overcome some of the higher peaks due to the fact that we are only typically removing around .001" total material. During [our sample process](https://go.ableelectropolishing.com/free-sample-offer), we work with our clients’ engineers to determine the appropriate stock removal. In some cases, we are removing small, medium and high target amounts of material so our customers can compare and contrast the different finishes. All engineering information is captured in our ERP system so that we can lock in the precise requirements for the preferred finish. ## **Combining Mechanical Polishing with Electropolishing** Our coupon samples pictured below illustrate the possibilities of mechanical polishing used in conjunction with electropolishing. In industries like pharmaceutical and semiconductor manufacturing, electropolishing is utilized mainly to remove particulates and contaminants introduced during the manufacturing process. In addition, enhanced corrosion resistance and an improved chrome-to-iron ratio are key factors influencing the decision to adopt electropolishing as the final step in metal finishing. In the picture below, you can see the improvement in Ra after electropolishing vs. specific mechanical finishes when applied to 316 Stainless Steel. Electropolishing reduces the mechanical work required and, in many cases, reduces the overall cost to finish parts. ![Ra Electropolishing](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Ra-electropolishing.jpg?width=800&name=Ra-electropolishing.jpg) *Electropolishing Results after Mechanical Polishing Top row: Post-Electropolishing / Bottom row: Mechanical Polishing* In addition, electropolishing removes the fine mechanical polishing lines that are sometimes a challenge to remove through other processes. At Able Electropolishing, we have developed our processes over decades of innovation in collaboration with a diverse array of industries and applications. We carefully prototype and customize the process for each part, from racking to chemistry and timing. Our investment in [robotic automation](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/electropolishing-automation-ensures-consist-quality-able) also helps ensure consistent results. Robots are used to submerge the racks in the tank and remove them during processing at the precise time based on material removal requirements in our ERP system. Give us a call at ([888) 868-2900](tel:1-888-868-2900) or click on the link below to learn more about what electropolishing can do to improve the surface results for your metal parts.[![Try Electropolishing for Free](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/500185/99720553-3f28-4d99-b508-52fe36c99c4f.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/500185/99720553-3f28-4d99-b508-52fe36c99c4f)[![Virtual Lunch & Learn Request](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/500185/f155b4f7-b343-4946-b943-a88c7d63f99c.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/500185/f155b4f7-b343-4946-b943-a88c7d63f99c) - [Tweet](https://twitter.com/share) ### Tags - [Electropolishing Solutions (64)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/electropolishing-solutions) - [Benefits of Electropolishing (54)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/benefits-of-electropolishing) - [Metal Finishing (25)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/metal-finishing) - [Corrosion Resistance (24)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/corrosion-resistance) - [Medical Industry Solutions (23)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/medical-industry-solutions) - [Deburring (21)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/deburring) - [Stainless Steel (14)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/stainless-steel) - [Electropolishing (12)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/electropolishing) - [Food Industry Solutions (11)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/food-industry-solutions) - [About Able (9)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/about-able) - [Aerospace Solutions (9)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/aerospace-solutions) - [Contamination Prevention (9)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/contamination-prevention) - [Ra Improvement (9)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/ra-improvement) - [Electropolishing vs Passivation (8)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/electropolishing-vs-passivation) - [Passivation (8)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/passivation) - [Cleanability (7)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/cleanability) - [Pathogen Resistance (6)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/pathogen-resistance) - [Quality Control (6)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/quality-control) - [Fatigue Life Improvement (5)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/fatigue-life-improvement) - [Robotic Automation (4)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/robotic-automation) - [Specialty Alloys (4)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/specialty-alloys) - [Contract Cleaning (3)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/contract-cleaning) - [Electropolishing vs Pickling (3)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/electropolishing-vs-pickling) - [Medical Implants (3)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/medical-implants) - [Metal Springs Electropolishing (3)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/metal-springs-electropolishing) - [Microfinish Improvement (3)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/microfinish-improvement) - [Microfinishing (3)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/microfinishing) - [Nitinol (3)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/nitinol) - [Oxide Scale Removal (3)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/oxide-scale-removal) - [Testing and Analytics (3)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/testing-and-analytics) - [critical metal parts (3)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/critical-metal-parts) - [metal finishing process (3)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/metal-finishing-process) - [ASTM (2)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/astm) - [Aerospace Manufacturing (2)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/aerospace-manufacturing) - [Carbon Steel (2)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/carbon-steel) - [Contract Manufacturing (2)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/contract-manufacturing) - [Custom Rack Making (2)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/custom-rack-making) - [EDM Recast Layer (2)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/edm-recast-layer) - [Electrical Discharge Machining (2)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/electrical-discharge-machining) - [Electropolishing vs Mechanical Polishing (2)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/electropolishing-vs-mechanical-polishing) - [Electropolishing vs Vibratory Polishing (2)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/electropolishing-vs-vibratory-polishing) - [Galling Resistance (2)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/galling-resistance) - [Heat Tint Removal (2)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/heat-tint-removal) - [ISO (2)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/iso) - [Material removal (2)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/material-removal) - [Metal Fasteners (2)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/metal-fasteners) - [Pharmaceutical Industry Solutions (2)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/pharmaceutical-industry-solutions) - [Reusable Medical Devices (2)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/reusable-medical-devices) - [SAE (2)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/sae) - [Semiconductor Industry Solutions (2)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/semiconductor-industry-solutions) - [Stock removal standard (2)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/stock-removal-standard) - [Surface Finish Inspections (2)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/surface-finish-inspections) - [Titanium (2)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/titanium) - [Turnkey Sourcing (2)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/turnkey-sourcing) - [440c stainless steel (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/440c-stainless-steel) - [AI (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/ai) - [AI-Powered Assistant (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/ai-powered-assistant) - [AS9100:2016 (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/as91002016) - [Additive Manufacturing (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/additive-manufacturing) - [Chemical Passivation (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/chemical-passivation) - [Chromium Enrichment (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/chromium-enrichment) - [EV Battery Parts Electropolishing (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/ev-battery-parts-electropolishing) - [Electroplating (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/electroplating) - [Electropolishing Part Review (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/electropolishing-part-review) - [Electropolishing Process (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/electropolishing-process) - [Food Processing (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/food-processing) - [High Resolution Imaging (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/high-resolution-imaging) - [Hydraulics (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/hydraulics) - [Medical Device Manufacturing (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/medical-device-manufacturing) - [Metal Coating (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/metal-coating) - [Metal Plating (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/metal-plating) - [Part Review (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/part-review) - [Passivation Services (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/passivation-services) - [Passivation Solutions (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/passivation-solutions) - [Pneumatics (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/pneumatics) - [Refractory Metals (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/refractory-metals) - [Rescue Device (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/rescue-device) - [Scanning Electron Microscope (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/scanning-electron-microscope) - [Small Modular Reactors (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/small-modular-reactors) - [Small Parts (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/small-parts) - [Stamped Metal Parts (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/stamped-metal-parts) - [Technical Part Review (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/technical-part-review) - [Wire Products (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/wire-products) - [biocompatibility (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/biocompatibility) - [go-to market support (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/go-to-market-support) - [improved corrosion resistance (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/improved-corrosion-resistance) - [one-stop sourcing (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/one-stop-sourcing) - [plated parts (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/plated-parts) - [skrink lead time (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/skrink-lead-time) - [supplier network (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/topic/supplier-network) ### Archives - [September 2026 (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2026/09) - [July 2026 (2)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2026/07) - [June 2026 (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2026/06) - [May 2026 (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2026/05) - [April 2026 (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2026/04) - [March 2026 (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2026/03) - [February 2026 (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2026/02) - [December 2025 (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2025/12) - [November 2025 (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2025/11) - [October 2025 (2)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2025/10) - [July 2025 (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2025/07) - [June 2025 (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2025/06) - [May 2025 (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2025/05) - [April 2025 (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2025/04) - [March 2025 (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2025/03) - [January 2025 (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2025/01) - [December 2024 (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2024/12) - [November 2024 (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2024/11) - [September 2024 (3)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2024/09) - [July 2024 (2)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2024/07) - [June 2024 (2)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2024/06) - [April 2024 (4)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2024/04) - [March 2024 (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2024/03) - [February 2024 (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2024/02) - [January 2024 (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2024/01) - [December 2023 (2)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2023/12) - [November 2023 (2)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2023/11) - [October 2023 (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2023/10) - [May 2023 (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2023/05) - [March 2023 (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2023/03) - [February 2023 (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2023/02) - [January 2023 (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2023/01) - [December 2022 (2)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2022/12) - [November 2022 (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2022/11) - [October 2022 (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2022/10) - [September 2022 (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2022/09) - [August 2022 (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2022/08) - [May 2022 (2)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2022/05) - [April 2022 (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2022/04) - [March 2022 (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2022/03) - [January 2022 (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2022/01) - [December 2021 (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2021/12) - [November 2021 (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2021/11) - [August 2021 (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2021/08) - [July 2021 (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2021/07) - [June 2021 (2)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2021/06) - [May 2021 (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2021/05) - [April 2021 (2)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2021/04) - [February 2021 (2)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2021/02) - [December 2020 (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2020/12) - [November 2020 (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2020/11) - [October 2020 (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2020/10) - [August 2020 (5)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2020/08) - [July 2020 (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2020/07) - [June 2020 (3)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2020/06) - [May 2020 (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2020/05) - [April 2020 (3)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2020/04) - [March 2020 (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2020/03) - [February 2020 (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2020/02) - [January 2020 (3)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2020/01) - [December 2019 (3)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2019/12) - [November 2019 (3)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2019/11) - [October 2019 (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2019/10) - [September 2019 (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2019/09) - [June 2018 (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2018/06) - [April 2018 (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2018/04) - [January 2017 (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2017/01) - [October 2016 (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2016/10) - [September 2016 (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2016/09) - [August 2016 (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2016/08) - [June 2016 (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2016/06) - [May 2016 (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2016/05) - [April 2016 (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2016/04) - [February 2016 (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2016/02) - [January 2016 (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2016/01) - [December 2015 (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2015/12) - [October 2015 (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2015/10) - [September 2015 (4)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2015/09) - [April 2015 (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2015/04) - [March 2015 (6)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2015/03) - [February 2015 (5)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2015/02) - [January 2015 (4)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2015/01) - [December 2014 (2)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2014/12) - [November 2014 (2)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2014/11) - [October 2014 (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2014/10) - [September 2014 (2)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2014/09) - [July 2014 (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2014/07) - [November 2013 (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2013/11) - [October 2013 (4)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2013/10) - [September 2013 (3)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2013/09) - [July 2013 (2)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2013/07) - [January 2013 (1)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/archive/2013/01) ### Recent Posts [![The Able Electropolishing Advantage](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/able-advantage-thumbnail.jpg)](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/improve-mechanically-finished-ra-results-by-up-to-fifty-percent#popup2) ### The Able Electropolishing Advantage #### Learn how electropolishing promotes corrosion resistance, fatigue life improvement & pathogen resistance in our new video [Learn More](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/services/electropolishing/) ![](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/electropolishing-titanium-before-and-after.jpg) ### Electropolishing Before & After #### Read our case studies to learn more about the electropolishing services we have provided across a wide range of industries [Read Our Case Studies](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/resources/case-studies/) ![Able Electropolishing](https://ableep.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Able-Anniversary-Logo-Updated.png) - *Precision Electropolishing Services* - 2001 S. Kilbourn Ave. Chicago, IL 60623 USA - Phone: [(888) 868-2900](tel:(888)%20868-2900) - Fax: [(773) 277-1655](tel:(773)%20277-1655) Popular Links - [Electropolishing vs. Passivation](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/resources/passivation-vs-electropolishing/) - [Stainless Steel Electropolishing](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/alloys-electropolished/200-300-series-stainless-steel/) - [Aluminum Electropolishing](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/alloys-electropolished/aluminum/) - [Copper Electropolishing](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/alloys-electropolished/copper/) - [Titanium Electropolishing](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/alloys-electropolished/titanium/) - [Electropolishing 101 Webinar](https://go.ableelectropolishing.com/en/lunch-and-learn) - [Free Electropolishing Sample](https://go.ableelectropolishing.com/free-sample-offer) ![](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/NQA-ISO-9001-Logo-ANAB.jpg) ![](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/NQA-AS9100-Logo-ANAB.png) ![](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/NQA-ISO-13485-Logo-ANAB.jpg) Follow us: - - - - - [Privacy Policy](https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/privacy-policy/) © Able Electropolishing Co., Inc [AI Training](https://www.ableelectropolishing.com/able-electropolishing-ai-training/) v1.0.0 ```json { "@context" : "https://schema.org", "@type" : "BlogPosting", "author" : { "@type" : "Person", "name" : "Able Electropolishing", "url" : "https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/author/able-electropolishing" }, "dateModified" : "2022-03-01T15:30:01.366Z", "datePublished" : "2021-06-23T18:14:05.000Z", "headline" : "Electropolishing: Improve Mechanically-Finished Ra Results by 50% | Able", "image" : [ "https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/hubfs/electropolishing-ra-results.jpg" ], "mainEntityOfPage" : { "@id" : "https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/improve-mechanically-finished-ra-results-by-up-to-fifty-percent", "@type" : "WebPage" }, "publisher" : { "@type" : "Organization", "logo" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "url" : "https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/hubfs/able-electropolishing-logo-580.png" }, "name" : "Able Electropolishing Co. Inc." } } ``` ```json { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "BlogPosting", "headline": "Electropolishing: Improve Mechanically-Finished Ra Results by 50%", "alternativeHeadline": "Electropolishing: Improve Mechanically-Finished Ra Results by 50% | Able", "image": "https://f.hubspotusercontent30.net/hubfs/500185/electropolishing-ra-results.jpg", "wordcount": "499", "url": "https://blog.ableelectropolishing.com/improve-mechanically-finished-ra-results-by-up-to-fifty-percent", "datePublished": "2021-06-23 18:14:05", "dateCreated": "2021-06-23 18:14:05", "description": "Learn how electropolishing contributes to Ra (Roughness Average) improvement, removing the fine mechanical polishing lines that can be hard to remove", "articleBody": "During our lunch and learn sessions, many customers are interested in what they can achieve in terms of Ra (Roughness Average) improvement with electropolishing. In the microfinishing chart displayed here, you can see a sliding scale in terms of material removal to Ra improvement on the left column. Several key things to note related to the diagram: Electropolishing performs best when we begin the process with a 32Ra or better Electropolishing typically tops out at 4Ra in terms of microfinish improvement The electropolishing material removal process can be controlled by +/- .0002" total material for most alloys or half that per surface .001" total material removal or .0005" per surface should achieve approximately a 50% improvement in the microfinish. We process many parts that are higher than a 32Ra for many different industries. In some cases, the microfinish improvement will be 30-40% if we are beginning the process with a rougher starting point. For instance, if we start at 100Ra, electropolishing will improve the Ra but will not overcome some of the higher peaks due to the fact that we are only typically removing around .001" total material. During our sample process, we work with our clients’ engineers to determine the appropriate stock removal. In some cases, we are removing small, medium and high target amounts of material so our customers can compare and contrast the different finishes. All engineering information is captured in our ERP system so that we can lock in the precise requirements for the preferred finish. Combining Mechanical Polishing with Electropolishing Our coupon samples pictured below illustrate the possibilities of mechanical polishing used in conjunction with electropolishing. In industries like pharmaceutical and semiconductor manufacturing, electropolishing is utilized mainly to remove particulates and contaminants introduced during the manufacturing process. In addition, enhanced corrosion resistance and an improved chrome-to-iron ratio are key factors influencing the decision to adopt electropolishing as the final step in metal finishing. In the picture below, you can see the improvement in Ra after electropolishing vs. specific mechanical finishes when applied to 316 Stainless Steel. Electropolishing reduces the mechanical work required and, in many cases, reduces the overall cost to finish parts. Electropolishing Results after Mechanical Polishing Top row: Post-Electropolishing / Bottom row: Mechanical Polishing In addition, electropolishing removes the fine mechanical polishing lines that are sometimes a challenge to remove through other processes. At Able Electropolishing, we have developed our processes over decades of innovation in collaboration with a diverse array of industries and applications. We carefully prototype and customize the process for each part, from racking to chemistry and timing. Our investment in robotic automation also helps ensure consistent results. Robots are used to submerge the racks in the tank and remove them during processing at the precise time based on material removal requirements in our ERP system. Give us a call at (888) 868-2900 or click on the link below to learn more about what electropolishing can do to improve the surface results for your metal parts.", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Able Electropolishing" } } ```