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Anodizing Services

We offer Type II and Type III anodizing services and experience quality surface finish solutions to improve your metal parts’ performance and appearance.

What is Anodizing?

Anodizing is an electrochemical process used to enhance the surface properties of metal parts, primarily aluminum. The process involves immersing the metal in an electrolyte bath and applying an electrical current, which forms a durable, corrosion-resistant oxide layer on the surface. This oxide layer is integral to the metal, providing long-lasting protection and enhancing the part’s appearance.

Anodizing can be customized with various finishes, including clear, matte, or vibrant colors, making it popular for decorative and functional applications. The process not only improves wear resistance and corrosion protection but also increases surface hardness and provides an excellent base for additional coatings or adhesives.

What is Anodizing

Advantages of Anodizing

Anodizing is an electrochemical process that thickens and toughens the naturally occurring oxide layer on the surface of aluminum alloys. This process not only enhances the appearance of the metal but also provides a multitude of functional benefits, making it a popular choice across various industries.

Enhanced Durability

Anodizing forms a thick oxide layer on aluminum surfaces, much harder than the base material.

Superior Corrosion Resistance

The oxide layer acts as a barrier against environmental factors like moisture, salt, and corrosive chemicals.

Improved Aesthetics

Anodized surfaces can be dyed in a wide range of colors, providing excellent design flexibility.

Electrical Insulation

The anodized oxide layer is non-conductive, making it suitable for applications where electrical insulation is essential.

Thermal Resistance

Type II anodized aluminum can withstand higher temperatures without degrading, suitable for applications in thermal management.

Resistant to UV Radiation

Anodized layers are highly resistant to ultraviolet light, which prevents fading and degradation over time.

Anodizing Type II: Sulfuric Acid Anodizing

The most common anodizing process, Type II uses sulfuric acid as the electrolyte. It produces a thicker oxide layer that allows for dyeing in various colors, making it ideal for both protective and decorative purposes.

Surface preparation Colors Glossiness Cosmetic availability Thickness** Visual appearance
As machined (Ra 3.2μm / Ra 126μin) Clear, Black, Red, Blue, Orange, Gold Glossy (Above 20 GU) No for clear: 8 to 12μm(0.0003” to 0.0004”) black and color: 12 to 16μm(0.0004” to 0.0006”) Parts are anodized directly after machining. Machining marks will be visible.
Bead blasted Clear, Black, Red, Blue, Orange, Gold Matte (Below 10 GU) Cosmetic on request for clear: 8 to 12μm(0.0003” to 0.0004”) black and color: 12 to 16μm(0.0004” to 0.0006”) Grainy texture, matte finish
Bead blasted Clear, Black, Red, Blue, Orange, Gold Glossy (Above 20 GU) Cosmetic on request for clear: 8 to 12μm(0.0003” to 0.0004”) black and color: 12 to 16μm(0.0004” to 0.0006”) Grainy texture, glossy finish
Brushing(Ra 1.2μm / Ra 47μin) Clear, Black, Red, Blue, Orange, Gold Glossy (Above 20 GU) Cosmetic on request for clear: 8 to 12μm(0.0003” to 0.0004”) black and color: 12 to 16μm(0.0004” to 0.0006”) Parts are manually brushed to reduce marks, then anodized. Brushing lines will be visible.

Anodizing Type III: Hardcoat Anodizing

This type uses a higher current density and lower temperatures, resulting in a very thick and hard oxide layer. It is used in applications where durability, wear resistance, and high-strength coatings are required, such as in military and aerospace components.

Surface preparation Colors Cosmetic availability Thickness Visual appearance
As machined (Ra 3.2μm / Ra 126μin) Black, Natural (thicker layers will appear darker) No 35 to 50μm(0.0013” to 0.0019”) Parts are anodized directly after machining. Machining marks will be visible.
Bead blasted (Glass beads #120) Black, Natural (thicker layers will appear darker) Cosmetic on request 35 to 50μm(0.0013” to 0.0019”) Can be slightly visible if parts are “Not Cosmetic” Completely removed if parts are “Cosmetic”

Non-standard requests

Color Options for Aluminum Anodizing

Color Options for Aluminum Anodizing

We supply a range of standard colors. If you need a particular RAL or Pantone color code, please email us.

Design Considerations for Anodizing

Jig or Rack Marks

Anodizing involves suspending parts via a “jig” or “rack.” This will leave marks on the parts. Therefore, indicate any areas where these marks are unacceptable in your technical drawing and follow our cosmetic procedure.

Electrical Insulation

Anodizing adds an insulating oxide layer, significantly reducing the electrical conductivity of the surface.

Material Thickness Changes

Type II Anodizing: Adds minimal surface thickness, often negligible for most designs. Masking isn’t required unless specified for critical areas. Type III Anodizing: Adds substantial thickness, which can impact tight tolerances and engineering fits. By default, threads and precision features are masked to preserve dimensions.

Masking and Plugging

Masking ensures specific surfaces remain untreated while plugging prevents anodizing in holes or internal features. Design Advice: Identify areas requiring masking or plugging in CAD files, especially for precision parts.

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