Chemical Solutions
Anodizing
Aluminum anodizing has been around since the 1920’s and significant advancements in chemical technology continue today. Research is ongoing to provide more environmentally friendly and effective products that can improve productivity and functionality of anodized aluminum. To learn more about the latest aluminum anodizing products, please provide the following information:
- Current anodizing process – Type l (chromic acid), Type II (sulfuric acid), Type III (hard coat)
- Anodizing tank size – L” x W” x Depth”
- Types of parts being processed
- Anodic coating thickness requirements
- Dyes – colors currently being used
- Type of sealing process – hot seal, room temperature, etc.
- Current struggles with the process
Description
Aluminum anodizing is an electrochemical process that creates a hard, durable, non-conductive oxide coating from the aluminum surface. Aluminum anodizing is most often done in a sulfuric acid electrolyte at temperatures ranging from 32F to 80F. The anodized coating structure is porous which allows organic dyes to be absorbed into it providing many decorative coloring options. While the primary chemical used for anodizing is commodity sulfuric acid, many advancements have been made to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of the other steps in the anodizing process.
- Environmentally friendly cleaners that clean better and last longer
- Alkaline etch additives that provide a more consistent etch and extend the bath life
- More effective de-smutters and deoxidizers that improve the surface condition prior to anodizing
- More environmentally friendly chemicals that brighten aluminum prior to anodizing
- Additives that prevent burning and enhance the anodizing process
- New dye technology for increased light fastness and color consistency
- Environmentally friendly anodizing seals that improve the performance of the coating
