ASTM A380/A380M-13 Standard

What is the ASTM A380 standard?

ASTM A380 provides detailed procedures for the cleaning, descaling, and passivation of stainless steel parts, welds, and systems to:

Remove contaminants like oil, grease, dirt, scale, and oxide films

Restore or enhance corrosion resistance

Prepare stainless steel for service in demanding environments (e.g., food, pharmaceutical, chemical)

What is the equivalent standard of ASTM A380?

ASTM A967 – More focused on chemical passivation requirements

ASTM B912 – Passivation using electropolishing

ASTM A240 / A480 – Material and dimensional specifications (pre-fabrication)

What is the ASTM A380 process?

Cleaning

Removes organic and inorganic residues

Methods include alkaline cleaning, solvent degreasing, steam cleaning

Descaling

Removes heat tint and oxide scale from welding or heat treatment

Usually done by pickling with acid solutions (e.g., nitric-hydrofluoric mixtures)

Passivation

Removes free iron and other contaminants from the surface

Promotes the formation of a stable, passive chromium oxide layer

Typically involves nitric acid or citric acid treatments

Inspection & Testing

Water break test

Copper sulfate test

High-purity water rinse checks

Surface cleanliness visual inspections

ASTM A380 Applications:

Pharmaceutical and biotech equipment
Food processing machinery
Semiconductor and cleanroom systems
Welded stainless steel tanks and piping
Post-fabrication surface conditioning

Why Is ASTM A380 Important?
Helps ensure maximum corrosion resistance of stainless steel after fabrication
Reduces risk of surface contamination or premature rusting
Ensures compliance with industry hygiene and quality standards
Often specified in industries requiring ultra-clean surfaces