Surface Finishes

Aluminum Anodizing Services

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Aluminum Anodizing

Anodizing is an electrolytic passivation procedure that grows the natural oxide layer on aluminum components for security from wear and corrosion, along with aesthetic results. It is a conversion covering, similar to Alodine, meaning that the surface area of the lightweight aluminum recedes dimensionally before the safety oxide layer is developed. After the procedure is full, the oxide layer is integral to the lightweight aluminum substrate below, which means it will not chip or flake.

Anodize TypeApplicable MaterialsSurface PreparationColorGlossinessCosmetic AvailabilityThicknessVisual Appearance
Type Il AnodizeAluminumAs machined
(Ra 1.6μm)
Clear, Black, Red, Blue, Purple, GoldMatteNo50μm to 150μmParts are anodized directly after machining. Machining marks will be visible.
Bead blasted
(Grit #120 #150 #200)
Clear, Black, Red, Blue, Purple, GoldMatteOn Request8μm to 16μmGrainy texture, matte finish
Type Ⅲ AnodizeAs machined
 (Ra 1.6μm)
Clear,BlackMatteNo35μm to 50μmParts are anodized directly after machining. Machining marks will be visible.
Bead blasted
(Grit #120 #150 #200)
Clear,BlackMatteOn Request35μm to 50μmCan be slightly visible if parts are “Not Cosmetic” Completely removed if parts are “Cosmetic”

Aluminum Anodizing Type II Color Options

Clear/Natural

Black

Gold

Green

Purple

Red

Blue

Custom

Aluminum Anodizing Type Ⅲ Color Options

Natural

Black

Aluminum Anodizing Parts

Anodizing Type II Red

Anodize Type II Red Detail

Anodizing Type Ⅲ Natural

Anodizing Type Ⅲ Natural Detail

Anodizing Process

Anodizing is an electrolytic passivation treatment that grows the all-natural oxide layer on aluminum parts for security from wear and rust, along with aesthetic outcomes. Let us break down the basic steps for anodizing a part:

1. Connect the part to an anode
2. Submerge the part in acidic electrolyte solution
3. Apply a cathode to a metal electrode in the solution
4. Positive ions react with negative O2 ions and the surface becomes porous
5. This grows a layer of aluminum oxide on the part
6. Use corrosion inhibitors or colored dyes for cosmetic purposes
7. Seal the nanopores

Aluminum Anodizing Design Considerations

FAQs

Anodizing is an electrochemical process that forms a protective oxide layer on the surface of metal, typically aluminum, to enhance corrosion resistance and improve surface durability.

No, anodizing is primarily used for aluminum and its alloys. It is not suitable for most other metals like steel or copper.

The two primary types are sulfuric acid anodizing (Type II) and hard anodizing (Type III), with Type II providing a thinner and decorative finish and Type III producing a thicker, more wear-resistant coating.

Anodizing provides corrosion resistance, enhances aesthetics, and can be used to prepare the surface for coloring, making it a common choice for aluminum products.

Yes, anodized aluminum parts can be dyed to achieve various colors. The porous nature of the anodic layer allows for dye absorption.

The two primary types are sulfuric acid anodizing (Type II) and hard anodizing (Type III), with Type II providing a thinner and decorative finish and Type III producing a thicker, more wear-resistant coating.

Yes, anodizing can reduce the electrical conductivity of aluminum. The anodizing process creates an insulating oxide layer on the surface of the aluminum, which can hinder its electrical conductivity. The extent of the reduction in conductivity depends on the thickness of the anodic layer and the specific type of anodizing process used.

Yes, anodizing is suitable for both intricate and precision parts, as it offers good dimensional control. For highly precise dimensions, especially with Type III anodizing, it’s important to note that it may cause size changes.

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