Electropolishing refers to the use of a chemical solution and an electrical current to create a smooth finish on the surface of a fabricated product. That process may pose some safety risks to a bystander. This article discusses some of the risks that you can avoid by maintaining a safe distance as your custom car parts are being electropolished.

Risk of Exposure to the Solution

The electrolyte solution used during electropolishing is acidic and corrosive. It can therefore be very dangerous in case drops of this solution made contact with any part of your body. The fabricator is usually protected by specialised personal protective equipment.  You may not have access to the same level of protection as you watch your custom car parts being electroplished to give them a shiny surface finish. It is therefore advisable for you to stay away until the process is completed.

Gas Exposure Risks

The electropolishing solution may break down into several gases, such as oxygen and hydrogen. These gases usually escape from the solution and find their way into the air around the electropolishing container. There is a risk that those gases may build up to an explosive level in case measures are not taken to contain them. Custom sheet metal fabrication experts usually collect this gas and contain it in special containers close to the workstation. However, it is better for you to stay away so that you are safe in case some of the escaped gas explodes as electropolishing is taking place.

Electrical Shock Risks

Electropolishing usually requires large amounts of electrical current to be passed through the electrolyte. That current triggers chemical reactions that cause surface imperfections, such as burrs, on a part to be dissolved. It is better for you to stay away from such a location where such a huge amount of electricity is being used. This is because you may be in danger in case there is an electrical problem and you accidentally touch an electrically conductive material. It is better for you to leave the fabricator to work alone since he or she is specially trained to keep such electrical risks at bay.

As you can see, the electropolishing process has several inherent risks to which you may be exposed in case you insist on being present while your products are being finished. Each of those risks is potentially life threatening. You should therefore tame your urge to watch each step of the process so that you do not put yourself in harm's way in case anything goes wrong.