Anodizing is an electrochemical treatment process on a metal part surface to form a durable, corrosion resistant and attractive finish. It is widely used in aerospace, automotive and defense industry for components requiring high durability.

  • Anodizing

How Does Anodizing aluminum Work

Anodizing aluminum use aluminum part as anode in an electrolyte solution (such as sulfuric acid, chromic acid, oxalic acid, etc.), Under the work of electric current, the aluminum will be anodized with a thin layer film of aluminum oxide on the surface. The film thickness is ranging from 5 to 20μm, In the case of hard anodization, the oxide layer can reach 60 to 200μm in thickness.

What metal can be Anodized?

Aluminum is the most common material to be Anodized.

Advantages of Anodizing

Higher Corrosion Resistance

Anodized parts are highly resistant to corrosion because they are oxided and non-conductive. Even put the anodized part in salt mist, the corrosion progress is very slow.

Durability

Anodizing process can extend the anodized product’s life span and offer significant economic advantages.

Excellent Insulation

The anodic oxidation film of aluminum no longer has the conductive properties of metal and becomes a good insulating material.

Increase dielectric strength

Insulates the surface against electrical current.

Aesthetics

Anodizing significantly enhance the overall surface finish of a component. so the aluminum parts after Anodized generally have a good looking.

Disadvantages of Anodizing:

  • The oxide film can easily mix with impurities, turning it yellow.
  • During the anodization process, a significant amount of wastewater is produced, which pollutes the environment.
  • High Energy Consumption: Anodic oxidation requires a significant amount of electrical energy, resulting in higher processing costs.
  • Limited Color Options: After anodization, the primary colors are black and gray, which is not very suitable for the surface treatment of colored metal products.

Applications of Anodizing

Anodized Aluminum parts are used in various applications including as below:

  • Aerosapce components
  • Appliances
  • Comsumer electronic products
  • Food equipment
  • Furniture
  • Motor vehicle components
  • medical devices
  • Sporting goods and boats

Tips for Anodizing Process

  • When preparing the sulfuric acid anodizing electrolyte solution, s it is strictly forbidden to add water to concentrated sulfuric acid, otherwise, it can lead to splashing or even explosions.
  • It is best to keep the solution temperature between 13° and 26° during sulfuric acid anodization.
  • The aluminum ion content in the sulfuric acid anodizing electrolyte solution should not exceed 25g/L.
  • Avoid too high or too low current during sulfuric acid anodizing.
  • Oxide film thickness can not keep increasing as the electrolysis time extends.
  • The electrolyte solution should not contain too many impurities.

FAQS ABOUT Anodizing

Anodizing is available for various color options such as red, bronze, champagne, black and more. Actually, all rainbows colors can be done through Anodizing process.

Yes, anodizing aluminum is a simple process that you can make it at home. all the materials you need is easy to get and not expensive. you can follow some simple steps to get it done.

Capabilities

Other Surface Finishing

Related Blog

KUSLA PROTOTYPE

 KUSLA PROTOTYPE offers you rapid prototyping and low-volume manufacturing services for plastic and metal parts. High-quality solutions tailored to your unique needs.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR PROJECT