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.
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.
Aluminum Material Properties
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:
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
FAQS ABOUT Anodizing
Capabilities
- CNC Machining
- 3D Printing Prototype
- Urethane Casting
- CNC Aluminum Machining
- Sheet Metal Fabrication
- Aluminum Die Casting
- Aluminum Extrusion
- Rapid Tooling
- Surface Finishing
Other Surface Finishing
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