BOLZ INTEC GmbH

Barrels, funnels, pressure vessels & special constructions made of stainless steel

Electropolishing

Speziell behandelte Edelstahloberflächen für maximale Sicherheit & Qualität in Produktion, Transport & Lagerung

Surface treatments from BOLZ INTEC

Electropolishing is used to form a stable passive layer on the stainless steel surface

Electropolished stainless steel surfaces exhibit maximum corrosion resistance due to their high passivity. Product adhesion is reduced due to the optimized surface profile and also due to the improved roughness values.

Ground and subsequently electropolished stainless steel surfaces have no foreign particles and are therefore clean and process-neutral.

When it comes to cleanliness, sterility, good cleanability and extended cleaning intervals, electropolishing is a huge advantage - especially for the pharmaceutical, chemical and biochemical industries.

If you are interested, we will provide you with containers for trials free of charge.

BOLZ INTEC refines stainless steel surfaces

18 reasons why you should definitely have your stainless steel parts electropolished

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Improved corrosion resistance through the elimination of corrosion nuclei and layers with lower chemical resistance.
2 / 18
A slight accumulation of chromium on the surface helps to improve corrosion resistance.
3 / 18
Smoothness is improved by removing micro-roughness and rounding the macro profile.
4 / 18
Galvanizability is positively influenced, which leads to improved adhesion and a more homogeneous layer structure.
5 / 18
By increasing the passivity, catalytic or reactive interactions are reduced.
6 / 18
Cleaning performance is optimized by drastically reducing adhesive bonding forces.
7 / 18
The formation of deposits is greatly reduced (electropolished surfaces are referred to as self-cleaning).
8 / 18
The fatigue strength is improved by eliminating crack nuclei.
9 / 18
The diffusion behavior is positively influenced, which leads to improved solderability and higher quality in subsequent diffusion coating.
10 / 18
Increased reflectivity improves the luminous efficacy of reflectors and reduces losses in high and low temperature technology.
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High-frequency conductivity is improved by eliminating interference in the material area near the surface of the conductor.
12 / 18
By removing contaminated, gas-containing material layers, the outgassing rates under vacuum are drastically reduced.
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Friction and wear behavior is improved by smoothing the surface in the micro area and rounding the macro structures that determine wear. In particular, electropolishing the harder wear partner can largely prevent wear in different material pairings (e.g. plastic, rubber).
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Electropolishing reduces the real expansion of the surface by approx. 80 % compared to mechanically produced surfaces with the same roughness values.
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The particle-free nature of electropolished surfaces ensures that no particles are released from the surface during operation that could lead to faults or contamination of the product.
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Electropolished surfaces are absolutely passive immediately after the electropolishing process, as the surface is constantly surrounded by oxygen.
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The contamination behavior is positively influenced.
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The surface appears beautiful and decorative, allowing the aesthetics of the metal character to come into their own.
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BOLZ INTEC advises on the selection of the right material

Electropolishable materials

Material number
Corresponds to a very good result in terms of surface quality Corresponds to a good result in terms of surface quality Corresponds to a satisfactory result in terms of visual impression with deburring effect
1.4300 1.4057 1.3952
1.4301 1.4306 1.3964
1.4303 1.4331 1.4000
1.4310 1.4406 1.4016
1.4401 1.4418 1.4021
1.4404 1.4429 1.4028
1.4435 1.4439 1.4031
1.4441 1.4456 1.4034
1.4539 1.4462 1.4059
2.4602 Hastelloy C22 1.4529 1.4104
1.4541 1.4113
1.4545 1.4117
1.4567 1.4120
1.4571 1.4197
1.4580 1.4305
1.4581 1.4308
1.4840 1.4362
BOLZ INTEC specializes in the electropolishing of stainless steel surfaces

The 3 steps of the electropolishing process

Electropolishing basin

Rinsing stage

Decapping

Result of pioneering research by BOLZ INTEC & Konstanz University of Applied Sciences

The Optimized Grind Finishing® process (OGF)

In the pharmaceutical, chemical and food processing industries, minimizing build-up in containers is a critical factor for efficiency and quality. The build-up of substances on the inside walls of containers can lead to increased cleaning effort, product losses and contamination. This costs money and ties up resources. Especially in industries where EHEDG (European Hygienic Engineering & Design Group) certification and hygienic design are becoming increasingly important, minimizing adhesion has become a critical factor.

Research carried out by BOLZ INTEC in cooperation with the University of Constance has shown that the way in which stainless steel surfaces are removed plays a key role in minimizing adhesion. Different grinding methods result in different adhesion behavior, despite the same Ra values, and the OGF process from BOLZ INTEC leads to a lower adhesion of particles.

Below is a scanning electron microscope image of the stainless steel surface after electropolishing and Optimized Grind Finishing®, as well as images of the surface texture roughness data and repeatability.

Easy cleaning & minimal adhesion

The Optimized Grind Finishing (OGF) process leads to a low adhesion of particles on the surfaces of the containers. This significantly improves cleaning efficiency and reduces the risk of contamination of product batches.

Reproducible surface quality

The OGF process enables reproducible surface quality. In contrast to conventional processes, in which variable factors such as manual contact pressure or the quality of abrasives play a role, the OGF process offers consistent surface quality.

Visual aesthetics and low number of errors

The stainless steel surfaces treated with the OGF process have an attractive appearance and defects in the surface structure are significantly reduced thanks to the fine and gentle removal process. This is particularly important in industries that place high demands on safety.

Improved corrosion protection

The electropolishing process not only improves the optical quality, but also results in chemical changes that lead to improved corrosion protection. This is particularly relevant for applications in chemical and pharmaceutical processes.

Reduced risk of batch contamination

The improvement in cleaning behavior through the OGF process leads to a significant reduction in residual dirt adhesion in the containers. This significantly reduces the risk of contamination between different product batches.

Applicability in critical industries

The process is seen as particularly advantageous for critical industries such as nanotechnology or biotechnology and pharmaceutical technology, where the highest purity requirements and the avoidance of contamination are of crucial importance.

Our white paper on the OGF process

Increased efficiency through minimal adhesion

Simply send an e-mail and receive the download link

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BOLZ INTEC is a partner of well-known companies

Warum sich Kunden weltweit für unsere Behälter & Apparate mit Elektropolitur entscheiden

Tradition & innovation since 1919

BOLZ INTEC specializes in the manufacture of stainless steel drums, pressure vessels, agitator vessels, transport containers and transfer systems for hygiene-sensitive industries.

High vertical integration

BOLZ INTEC has acquired outstanding expertise in the machining of stainless steels and special materials such as Hastelloy. Combined with the skills and abilities of our team, this enables us to achieve maximum vertical integration. All production steps are carried out in-house. BOLZ INTEC is therefore able to react extremely flexibly to customer delivery date requests and guarantee unique quality.

Customized solutions

Our design department designs, plans and develops practical products according to our customers' requirements. These include, for example, containers for pasty substances or liquids, transport containers for UN hazardous goods, cans for the storage and transfer of active ingredients, suction hoods for dust-free container loading and much more.

One-off production & small series

BOLZ INTEC also manufactures custom-made products and small series.

Machines for perfect surfaces

Nothing in the BOLZ INTEC machine park is off the shelf. From the deep-drawing press to the electropolishing system, we work with special machines that have been developed according to our own specifications in order to meet the highest standards of quality and precision.

Traceability & reproducibility

BOLZ INTEC's QM system and our intensive testing procedures ensure the consistent quality of the stainless steel surfaces manufactured by BOLZ INTEC. In this way, we make a decisive contribution to the traceability of products in critical industries. 

Trust & security

Our striving for perfect quality, state-of-the-art production methods, but also craftsmanship and know-how are the basis for the superior BOLZ INTEC quality, which means safety and reliability for our customers. It is therefore not surprising that 80% of our customers have reordered every year for the last 10 years.

Comprehensive certification

We regularly have our quality certified externally: DIN 9001:2015, DIN EN ISO 3834-2:2006-03, DIN EN ISO 115085-2/CL1. We are a specialist company according to WHG §19/1 and carry out process tests according to DIN EN ISO 15614-1, operator tests according to DIN EN 1418. BOLZ INTEC fulfills the Pressure Equipment Directive-2014-68-EU/AD-2000 HPO and employs Intern. Welding engineers (DVS/IIW 1170).

Your advantages with BOLZ INTEC

High efficiency, low costs & great economy

Time savings in production

The use of stainless steel containers with optimized surfaces leads to significant time savings in the production process. By minimizing the build-up of materials, cleaning and maintenance times can be drastically reduced. This enables the containers to be reused more quickly and increases the overall efficiency of the production lines. In a production-intensive environment where time equals money, this time saving represents a significant economic advantage.

Reduced risk of production downtime

The reproducible quality of the stainless steel surfaces and the reduced number of defects minimize the risk of production downtime due to surface problems. This can lead to higher overall productivity and less downtime.

Reduction of production losses

Optimizing the container surfaces also minimizes the amount of product loss. Reduced adhesion means that more of the material produced is available for its intended use and does not end up as waste. This is a particularly important factor in industries where high-quality or very expensive materials are processed.

Improvement of product quality & product safety

Contamination-free production results in a higher quality end product. This is crucial in industries with strict quality and purity requirements, such as pharmaceuticals and food production, where purity and safety are top priorities. The use of optimized stainless steel containers can therefore also lead to improved brand image and customer satisfaction. We ensure the quality of our containers through our QM officer and stringent production processes. You will receive the corresponding documentation for each of our stainless steel drums.

Cost reduction through efficient cleaning & barrel maintenance

In addition to saving time, optimized surfaces also lead to a reduction in the costs of cleaning processes. Less build-up means less need for cleaning agents, water and energy. There is also less wear and tear on the containers themselves, which increases their service life and reduces the need for new purchases. In the long term, these savings in operating costs can make a significant difference to a company's profitability.

Longer container service life & positive eco-balance

The improved corrosion protection provided by the electropolishing process helps to extend the service life of stainless steel containers. Customers can thus reduce their costs for replacement investments and maintenance.

Kunden aus diesen Branchen erhöhen ihre Produktionseffizienz mit elektropolierten Oberflächen aus Edelstahl von BOLZ INTEC

Cosmetics
Pharmaceuticals
Specialty chemicals
Veterinary medicine
Plant engineering
Food supplement
Nanotechnology
Clean room
Semiconductors
Vaccines
Biotechnology
Natural remedies
Aerospace
Health
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How the collaboration with BOLZ INTEC begins

Reach your goal in just a few steps

1

Request
Send us an e-mail, give us a call or book an appointment via Calendly. In a phone call with one of our competent contacts, we will clarify a few questions in advance using checklists and send you a non-disclosure agreement (NDA).

2

Test phase
Based on your objectives and specifications, you will receive drums, containers, funnels and accessories from our test center - as required - to try out and test. You can use your test equipment to verify or adapt the specifications of your request.

3

Offer
During a visit to your premises, our competent contact partners will advise you on clarifying any final questions, finding solutions to identified problems and defining your exact requirements. We can then start production.

Our project team looks forward to your inquiry

Sie haben Fragen zum Elektropolieren, zur Oberflächenbehandlung oder zu unseren Produkten? Sie möchten von einem unserer kompetenten Mitarbeiter beraten werden?

Give us a call or send us an e-mail. We will make time for you and will be happy to call you back if you wish.

Häufig an BOLZ INTEC gestellte Fragen zum Elektropolieren

You ask, we answer

Elektropolieren ist ein elektrochemischer Prozess, bei dem Unregelmäßigkeiten auf der Oberfläche von Edelstahl durch Anlegen eines elektrischen Stroms entfernt werden, um die Oberfläche zu glätten und zu passivieren, was zu einer erhöhten Korrosionsbeständigkeit und verbesserten Hygiene führt.
Die Elektropolitur verbessert die Korrosionsbeständigkeit, optimiert die Reinigungsfähigkeit durch Glättung der Oberfläche und erhöht die Lebensdauer des Materials. Zudem minimiert sie die Anhaftung von Produkten und Kontaminationen.
In der Pharmaindustrie ist Sterilität entscheidend. Elektropolierte Oberflächen sind besonders glatt und rein, was die Ansammlung von Bakterien und anderen Kontaminanten verhindert und die Reinigung erleichtert.
Durch Elektropolieren wird die Oberfläche auf mikroskopischer Ebene geglättet, wodurch die Adhäsion von Partikeln signifikant reduziert wird und die Oberflächen als quasi selbstreinigend betrachtet werden können.
Ja, durch die Entfernung von Mikrodefekten und die Verbesserung der Korrosionsbeständigkeit kann die Elektropolitur die Lebensdauer von Edelstahlfässern erheblich verlängern.
BOLZ INTEC kann eine Vielzahl von Edelstahllegierungen elektropolieren, einschließlich der gängigen Typen wie 1.4301, 1.4404 und 1.4571, sowie exotischere Legierungen wie Hastelloy C22.
Elektropolieren verbessert die Haftfestigkeit und Gleichmäßigkeit von nachfolgenden Beschichtungen, indem es die Oberfläche homogenisiert und für weitere Veredelungsprozesse vorbereitet.
Wir kontrollieren den Elektropolierprozess streng nach GMP-Richtlinien und nutzen modernste Technologien, um eine gleichbleibend hohe Qualität der Oberflächenbeschaffenheit zu gewährleisten.
Elektropolieren ist eine umweltfreundliche Oberflächenbehandlung, da es die Notwendigkeit von chemischen Reinigungsmitteln reduziert und die Oberflächen langlebiger und wartungsärmer macht.

Ja, BOLZ INTEC verfügt über die Kapazitäten und das Fachwissen, um auch große und komplexe Bauteile effektiv zu elektropolieren.

Durch die glatte und reine Oberfläche, die durch Elektropolieren erreicht wird, können sich Bakterien und andere Schadstoffe weniger leicht festsetzen, was für Bereiche wie die Lebensmittelverarbeitung und Pharmaproduktion essentiell ist.
Kunden können spezifische Anforderungen an die Rauheit und Passivität der Oberfläche stellen, die durch angepasste Elektropolierprozesse realisiert werden.
Der erste Schritt ist eine detaillierte Beratung mit unseren Spezialisten, um Ihre spezifischen Anforderungen zu verstehen und einen maßgeschneiderten Elektropolierprozess zu planen.
Elektropolieren bietet im Vergleich zu mechanischen Methoden eine überlegene Glätte und Sauberkeit, da es die Oberfläche chemisch und nicht mechanisch behandelt, was zu einer höheren und konsistenteren Qualität führt.
Ja, wir stellen interessierten Kunden gerne Behälter für Versuche zur Verfügung, um die Effektivität und die Vorteile der Elektropolitur zu demonstrieren.
Das Elektropolieren reduziert die Reinigungsintervalle von Edelstahlbehältern signifikant. Durch die Glättung der Oberfläche und die Bildung einer stabilen Passivschicht wird die Anhaftung von Partikeln und Produktrückständen minimiert. In vielen Fällen können unsere Kunden die Reinigungszyklen um 30-50% verlängern, was zu erheblichen Zeit- und Kosteneinsparungen im Produktionsprozess führt. Zudem ermöglicht die verbesserte Oberflächenqualität eine effizientere Reinigung mit weniger aggressiven Reinigungsmitteln, was die Lebensdauer der Behälter zusätzlich verlängert.
Ja, sofern produktionstechnisch umsetzbar, bietet BOLZ INTEC die Elektropolitur auch als Dienstleistung für bereits im Einsatz befindliche Edelstahlbehälter an. Dieser Service ist besonders wertvoll für Unternehmen, die ihre bestehenden Anlagen optimieren möchten, ohne komplett neue Behälter anzuschaffen. Unser erfahrenes Team bewertet den Zustand der Behälter und passt den Elektropolierprozess individuell an, um optimale Ergebnisse zu erzielen. Dies kann die Leistung und Lebensdauer vorhandener Behälter erheblich steigern und ist oft eine kosteneffiziente Alternative zur Neuanschaffung.
Bei BOLZ INTEC kombinieren wir das Optimized Grind Finishing® (OGF) Verfahren mit der anschließenden Elektropolitur, um eine optimale Oberflächenqualität zu erzielen. Das OGF-Verfahren bereitet die Oberfläche ideal für die Elektropolitur vor, indem es eine gleichmäßige und feinkörnige Struktur schafft. Die nachfolgende Elektropolitur verfeinert diese Oberfläche weiter und erzeugt eine hochglänzende, extrem glatte Finish. Diese Kombination resultiert in einer Oberfläche mit minimaler Partikelanhaftung, maximaler Korrosionsbeständigkeit und optimalen Reinigungseigenschaften. Kunden berichten von bis zu 80% reduzierten Produktanhaftungen und einer Verbesserung der Oberflächenqualität um bis zu 40% im Vergleich zu herkömmlichen Verfahren.
Allgäu

Sie haben Fragen zur Elektropolitur oder suchen Beratung?

Please do not hesitate to contact us by phone or e-mail.

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