What is anodizing?
Anodizing is an electrolytic process that deposits a chemically stable oxide layer on aluminum surfaces. The resulting oxide film is thicker and stronger than the native oxide coating of aluminum. It is hard, porous, and transparent, making it an integral part of metal surfaces so it will not peel or peel. Once deposited, the oxide film can be coloured in several ways before sealing.
Film thicknesses are graded, with grade specifications ranging from 5 microns to 25 microns depending on the application. A thickness of 5 microns is typically used for decorative applications and 10 or 15 microns for interior applications. The exterior finish requires a film thickness of 25 microns. Anodizing is suitable for extruded, cast, rolled, drawn and forged aluminum products.
How th process of anodizing aluminum works？
The principle of aluminum anodization is essentially the principle of water electrolysis. Put, aluminum or aluminum alloy products are used as anodes and placed in an electrolyte solution, and an aluminum oxide film is formed on the surface by electrolysis.
Benefits of Anodized Aluminum Parts
To overcome the defects of surface hardness and wear resistance of aluminum alloys, expand the scope of application and prolong the service life, surface treatment technology has become an indispensable part of the use of aluminum alloys. Anodizing technology is currently the most widely used and most successful; the advantages of this process are as follows:
Improve corrosion resistance:
Aluminum alloy is an important metal material developed in modern times. Aluminum alloy has the advantages of high strength, low density, strong electrical and thermal conductivity, excellent mechanical properties and good machinability. After anodizing treatment, the surface of aluminum and its alloys can obtain a dense film layer much thicker than the natural oxide film, which improves the corrosion resistance of the metal surface.
Improve wear resistance:
The anodic oxide film has high corrosion resistance, and good wear resistance, especially the porous oxide film on the surface layer can adsorb lubricants, which can further improve the wear resistance of the surface. In the actual process, there are many anodizing of aluminum alloys. In daily life, anodizing can make the surface of aluminum parts produce a hard protective layer, which can be used to produce kitchen utensils and other daily necessities. The gloss of anodized surfaces made of aluminum alloys is brighter. The wear resistance is also much better.
Improved insulation performance
The anodic oxide film of aluminum and aluminum alloy no longer has the conductive properties of metal, and it does not matter even if it is stained with water.
Strong adsorption capacity
The anodized film of aluminum and aluminum alloys has a porous structure and a strong adsorption capacity, so filling the pores with various pigments, lubricants, resins, etc., can further improve the protection and decorative properties of aluminum products.
The aesthetic effect on the parts
It provides metals with a natural lustre, smooth texture and aesthetics while producing strong coatings. The anodized aluminum finish is available in virtually any colour and protects against harsh climatic conditions and harmful UV rays.
Is Anodizing Right for Your Part?
Now that you know more about aluminium anodizing, you can decide if this process is right for your part. Examples some functional aluminium parts, mechanical parts, aircraft and automobile parts, precision instruments and consumer goods that face corrosion or wear. Anodized aluminium is popular in consumer products, mainly due to its sleek appearance. The anodized aluminium coating creates a shiny metallic finish that makes treated parts look more professional and premium.
If you are interested in anodizing your parts, contact us for a free quote and project review, and our experts will help you find a solution that fits your budget, time-to-market and expected results.
