Carbon steel is highly susceptible to corrosion when its surface becomes contaminated.
To safeguard against this, applying chemical treatments such as pickling is essential.
These treatments effectively remove impurities, restore the metal’s corrosion resistance, and preserve its structural integrity, ensuring durable performance even in challenging environments.
Carbon steel pickling is an essential process, particularly for removing scale from the internal surfaces of pipework where mechanical or impact cleaning methods are not feasible.
If this scale is not eliminated before the pipework is integrated into a hydraulic system, loose particles can accumulate, causing blockages that restrict the flow of oils.
This can lead to reduced system efficiency or, in severe cases, a complete breakdown.
To effectively remove scale, we use an inhibited solution of hydrochloric acid for the pickling process to prevent oxidation.
This combination ensures that the scale is thoroughly eliminated, leaving the pipework in optimal condition for service.
By applying these treatments, we help to mitigate issues such as blockages and system failures, thereby enhancing the overall reliability of hydraulic systems.
Established in Sheffield in 1960 Metapic have been an ever present company steel treatment company for over 60 years.
With years of hands-on experience, we offer a comprehensive range of cleaning and chemical passivation processes.
Our time-served expertise ensures high-quality results across various applications, providing reliable and effective solutions tailored to meet the specific needs of our clients.






The pickling process is not limited to new pipework. It can also be utilised to clean existing systems by removing contaminants like lime scale from cooling systems.
This not only extends the lifespan of the equipment but also reduces the costs associated with new or replacement parts.
Beyond pipework, pickling can be applied to a variety of materials and surfaces where a clean, scale-free finish is required, demonstrating its versatility across different applications.
With decades of expertise in metal treatment and a strong commitment to quality, Metapic is your trusted partner for carbon steel treatment.
Our pickling service provide vital protection for your equipment while ensuring full compliance with industry standards. This enhances both the safety and efficiency of your operations.
Contact us today to discover how our specialised services can benefit your carbon steel components.