Because pickling solutions are highly acidic, care must be taken in the pickling process and in the treatment of any wastewater or resulting products.
These acids can also produce smoke, make breathing dangerous, and even cause poisoning and burns. Always consult MSDS data and manufacturer recommendations before using pickling solutions, as concentrations and composition may vary from product to product.
Generally, acid wash is used to fully immerse processed stainless steel products in the bath. Gels and pastes offer more flexibility when it comes to applications. Most are compatible with brushes, rollers, and even sprayers. However, when using nebulizers, be sure to follow any extra precautions such as respirators or ventilation. Most products require 15 to 60 minutes of treatment.
It is also important to thoroughly clean and degrease the surface you intend to pickling, as acids are not designed to remove oils, grease, and other similar contaminants.
At the very least, pickling contaminated surfaces can result in poor performance. In the worst case, it could create a reaction that further damages the steel or increases the risk of personal injury.
