Anodize- Anodizing
Anodizing is an electrolytic passivation process used to increase the thickness of the natural oxide layer on the surface of metal parts. The plating is done through a current and is called anodizing because the part to be treated forms the anode electrode of an electrical circuit.
Anodize Coating
Anodize coating is usually used for decorative and electric purposes for it is highly resistant to corrosion. About 50% of the coating thickness is ‘absorbed’ in the base metal, therefore creating an extremely hard layer which is resistant to abrasion and can be grinded. That is the reason for which anodizing can also be used for parts that demand high engineering precision.
Anodizing Process
The process begins when a current is activated and then creates hexagonal crystals of aluminum oxide. In the center of every hexagonal there is a hole through which reagents are released in order to keep creating the oxide.
In order to supply high resilience to questioned items, these holes must be sealed at the end of the anodizing process. The process, which is defined as sealing, is performed in various ways according to standards.
Anodizing Types
Anodizing Types are mainly defined and characterized by the acids used for the anodizing process such as phosphoric acid, Sulfuric acid and different acid mixtures. Hard coat and regular coat are also considered as types of anodizing.
Anodizing Shades
- Black
- Red
- Blue
- Natural color (light gray- brown)
Custom made anodizing colors can be produced on special request
MIL-A-8625
Classification by Type
| Type | Anodizing Type and Common Use |
|---|---|
| Type I | Chromic acid anodizing- Used mainly for aerospace applications |
| Type IB | Chromic acid anodizing- weak voltage process |
| Type IC | Organic acid- weak voltage process |
| Type II | Sulfuric acid anodizing- most commonly used anodized coating. Mainly used for decorative and engineering purposes |
| Type IIB | Thin Sulfuric acid anodizing- mainly in a natural shade and used as a substitute for chromic acid. |
| Type III | Hard coat, hard anodizing |
Classified by Class
| Class | Anodizing Shade |
|---|---|
| Class 1 | Colorless anodized – “Natural” anodizing |
| Class 2 | Colored anodizing – mainly black, green, red, brown or a special request shade |
