Titanium Surface Finishing Methods

Surface finishing affects titanium's appearance, cleanliness, corrosion behavior and wear. The right method depends on the part's service.

Pickling

An acid treatment (typically HF/HNO3) that removes the oxide scale and a thin surface layer after hot working — leaving a clean, uniform surface.

Polishing

Mechanical or electro-polishing for a bright, smooth finish and low roughness (important for medical and decorative parts).

Anodizing

• Color anodizing — thin oxide produces interference colors for identification
• Hard/Type II — thicker oxide for improved wear and anti-galling

Blasting

Glass-bead or sand blasting gives a uniform matte texture and can improve fatigue by inducing compressive stress.

Passivation

Enhances the natural oxide for maximum corrosion resistance and cleanliness, common for medical and chemical parts.