Phosphate Conversion

Phosphate conversion is a surface-altering process that makes a surface corrosion resistant.  As the workpiece is immersed in phosphoric acid, the solution decomposes some of the surface metal and forms a protective film.

Process Characteristics

Changes surface chemical composition to prepare for additional protective coatings
Is typically used to treat iron and steel
Forms a thin layer of complex crystalline material on the workpiece surface

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Information provided is from Manufacturing Processes Reference Guide by Robert H. Todd, Dell K. Allen, and Leo Alting.--1st ed. Published by Industrial Press Inc., 1994.