For versatility, it is hard to beat aluminum. It is open to a variety of finishing processes. One of the most common means of treating it is through anodizing. Aluminum anodizing produces a metal that resembles other metals. By adding color, you can also have an aesthetically pleasing product.
What Is Anodizing?
Anodizing is a surface treatment. An electrochemical process, it deposits an even layer of clear, colorless, or gray to black aluminum oxide on the surface of the aluminum product. The thickness and color of the layer will depend upon the purpose behind the anodization process.
The intent of aluminum anodizing is simple – to produce a protective and/or a decorative coating. It does so by strengthening the naturally occurring development of oxidization. The addition of color to complete any of the processes is possible. This improves the attractiveness of the material and increases its potential use in the marketplace.
Three Types of Anodizing
Three major types of anodizing processes exist:
- Type I (Chromic acid anodizing): This conventional form is typical for aerospace applications. Its intent is to imbue corrosion resistance as well as solid paint adhesion.
- Type II (Sulfuric acid anodizing): This is for aluminum for aesthetic purposes. Commonly found in many applications, it produces a clear, even thin layer readily susceptible to the process of coloring.
- Type III (Hard coat anodizing): The layer is thicker. It tends to range in color from gray through to black. Its purpose is to improve the wear resistance of aluminum. Finishers can dye or leave the product alone
Aluminum Anodizing
At Secoa Technology, we find anodizing to provide a superior finish to aluminum. It provides:
- A protective layer
- Extends corrosion resistance
- Improves resistance to wear and tear
- Produces an attractive finish
By applying DiamonDyze™, we ensure your company’s components receive a superior protective coating for both Type II and III aluminum anodizing processes.