Finishing

Aluminum Anodizing is a metal surface that provides a durable, corrosion-resistant, anodic oxide finish. This protective layer is not applied like paint or plating but is fully integrated with the underlying aluminum substrate, so it cannot chip or peel. It enhances the natural qualities of aluminum and extends the lifespan of your products while providing aesthetic appeal through a variety of colors and finishes. Hard Coat Anodizing provides even greater resistance to abrasion and wear than standard anodizing, making it ideal for industrial applications where parts are subject to harsh conditions or heavy usage. This type involves a thicker anodic layer that significantly increases durability without compromising the weight or integrity of the aluminum part. Color Anodizing allows for much more than just improved performance; it also gives you the opportunity to customize your products in a variety of colors for branding or identification purposes. Through precise control of the electrolytic process, we can produce a wide spectrum of stable and uniform colors on your components.

Aluminum anodizing increases corrosion resistance and provides a superior surface for painting, as well as allowing many opportunities for adding a wide range of colors to your products across a huge array of sizes and shapes.

Black Oxide involves a chemical reaction to form magnetite (Fe3O4), the black oxide of iron, on the surface of the metal. This process not only gives the material a pleasing aesthetic finish but also offers some degree of improved wear resistance. However, it is important to note that since it does not add a significant layer thickness, it does not significantly alter the dimensional tolerance of parts. The use of surface coatings offers several benefits in manufacturing and engineering applications. One advantage is the minimal impact these coatings have on the dimensional tolerance of parts. This is due to the fact that surface coatings, while providing protection and enhanced performance characteristics, do not add a significant layer thickness to components. The original dimensions of the parts are largely preserved, ensuring that they still meet design specifications and fitment requirements without necessitating adjustments for additional material thickness. This characteristic is particularly important in precision applications where even minor deviations from specified dimensions can lead to assembly issues or impair functionality. In applications where minimal friction is essential or when an anti-glare appearance is desired—such as in military equipment or in automotive interiors—black oxide can be an ideal solution. The ability of black oxide to retain oil can aid in preventing rust on steel components by keeping them well-lubricated under operating conditions. For enhanced protection against corrosion, especially in harsh environments or outdoor applications where moisture exposure is frequent, components treated with black oxide can be further protected through supplementary post-treatments such as oiling or waxing. These additional coatings seal off pores within the black oxide layer from water ingress and reducing the oxidation processes.

Iridite & Chem Film treatments, often referred to by their military specification MIL-DTL-5541, involve the application of a chromate conversion coating that changes the chemical nature of the surface layer of metal. This treatment not only increases corrosion resistance but also can add electrical conductivity properties, making it essential in electrical applications where aluminum parts are used. The process typically involves cleaning the aluminum surface thoroughly before applying the chemical solution that reacts with the metal to form a protective chromate layer. This layer is relatively thin and does not alter dimensions significantly, which is desirable for precision components. The resulting coat can vary in color from clear to iridescent yellow or green depending on the specific chemicals used and processing parameters. For environments requiring even greater protection against moisture or more severe conditions, additional coatings such as powder coating or painting can be applied directly over this chem film layer without additional preparation required to retain the enhanced adhesive properties provided by this underlayer.

Clear chem and yellow iridite coatings provide alternatives for preparing your aluminum surfaces for paint while retaining electrical conductivity.