For general cleaning after installation, we typically use an alkaline cleaning solution. My understanding is that passivation is intended to remove residual iron particles, either as free iron or imbedded tool steel particles, from the surface and quickly create a passive oxide film.
For references I have been using NFPA Hydrogen Technologies Code NFPA-2, 2011 edition and Hydrogen Piping and Pipelines ASME B31.12-2001, as well as B31.3-2008, B16.9-2007, B16.34-2009 and B31.12-2001.
Our corporate engineering standards reccommend passivation for stainless steel lines that...
I am reconfiguring the hydrogen gas supply lines to several vessels in a hydrogenation pilot plant. The new pipe will be 316 SS with an operating pressure up to 1100 psig, at ambient temperatures (-10 to 110 F). I know H2 gas generated during passivation of SS can cause hydrogen embrittlement...
