What Is Anodizing?
Anodizing Is An Electrochemical Process That Converts The Metal Surface Into A Decorative, Durable, Corrosion-Resistant, Anodic Oxide Finish. Aluminum Is Ideally Suited To Anodizing. This Aluminum Oxide Is Not Applied To The Surface Like Paint Or Plating, But Is Fully Integrated With The Underlying Aluminum Substrate, So It Cannot Chip Or Peel. It Has A Highly Ordered, Porous Structure That Allows For Secondary Processes Such As Coloring And Sealing.
Why Anodize?
The Main Reason For Choosing Anodize Is: Improved Wear Resistance, Corrosion Protection, Surface Lubricity, Heat Dissipation, Non-Conductive Properties, Adhesion And Aesthetics.
What Are The Best Alloys For Type II Anodizing?
All Wrought Aluminum Alloys Will Anodize Well Both Functionally And Aesthetically, Die Cast Alloys Are Done With Function Only In Mind. The Chemical Makeup Of Die Cast Alloys Prevents Cosmetic Improvements.
Is Anodizing Considered A "Green" Coating?
Yes. Anodize Does Not Entail The Use Of Heavy Metals Nor Does It Produce Toxic Waste. Anodizing Meets The Environmental And Safety Directives Of The FDA, USDA, ELV, WEEE and RoHS.
What Is The Difference Between Type II Regular Anodize And Type III Hard Anodize?
Type III Or Hard Anodize Offers A More Dense Aluminum Oxide Layer. Hard Anodize Requires Increased Electrical Current And An Extremely Cooled Electrolyte Bath. Hard Anodize Has Increased Attributes Versus Type II Regular Anodize.
Is There A Price Difference Between Type II And Type III Anodize?
Hard Anodize Is More Expensive Due To The Increased Energy Needed To Achieve The Coating. While There Are Several Variables In Any Order, A General Rule Of Thumb Is Hard Anodize Is 2-3 Times More In Cost.