[2] The minerals combine in isomorphic series, meaning that they crystallize in similar forms, producing a sequence of solids.

The steps of immersion include degreasing/cleaning, water rinses, pickling in mineral acid, activation, manganese phosphating, an optional final drying, and lubrication using oils or emulsion.

[3] The water pre-rinse activation allows the cleaning and pickling to take place while avoiding the formation of coarse-crystalline phosphate.

Manganese phosphating is performed, typically in a bath of dilute phosphoric acid that is at approximately 95 °C (203 °F) for about 5–20 minutes (the time varies with the state of the surface being coated).

Manganese phosphate coating can often be found in the oil and gas industry, firearms and ordnance, aerospace, gears and bearings, and in marine equipment.