Also known as passivating fluids, these protectants remove dirt and discoloration from stainless steel, restoring or maintaining its corrosion resistance. They expose the chromium in the stainless steel, which reacts with air to form a protective layer. Use them on parts that are vulnerable to rust due to machining, heat, or chemicals. The citric acid in these protectants won’t create harmful fumes or hazardous waste, making them safer than protectants with nitric acid.

No need for mixing or monitoring pH levels, these protectants come ready-to-use. For sensitive parts, such as those made from 400-series stainless steel, you can dilute them with water.

All of these protectants meet SAE and ASTM international guidelines for passivating stainless steel. They also meet ASTM international guidelines for descaling and cleaning titanium and titanium alloys.

Protectants for removing dirt and rust contain an additive that eliminates rust that’s already on your part.

Liquid protectants are thinner than gel protectants, making them best for immersing parts. When spot cleaning, however, they can be hard to use on vertical surfaces.

Gel protectants are thicker than liquid protectants, so they cling to surfaces. Use them on vertical surfaces, weld joints, and other parts that can’t be immersed. Gels for removing dirt only have a higher pH value than all of the other protectants, which means they’re less acidic and won’t discolor 400-series stainless steel. Do not use them on parts that already have rust.