Anodizing Services
We primarily offer Type II and III anodizing, which are ideal finishes for parts. Anodizing provides added strength to parts and is available in a variety of colors depending on the type. All types of anodizing will increase lead time and cost for each part.
What is Anodizing?
Anodizing is defined as an electrochemical process that converts a metal surface into a durable, corrosion-resistant, and aesthetically pleasing anodic oxide finish. The process involves immersing the metal in an acid electrolyte bath and passing an electric current through it. This causes oxygen ions from the electrolyte to bond with the metal atoms on the surface, forming a thick, stable oxide layer.
Unlike painting or plating, anodizing enhances the natural oxide layer rather than adding a separate layer on top. This makes it more integrated with the metal, leading to better adhesion, durability, and longevity. Anodized finishes are highly resistant to peeling, chipping, and corrosion, which differentiates them from other coating methods.
Custom Parts with Anodizing
Anodizing provides a vast palette of color options that remain vibrant and stable over time, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the material.
DEZE’s anodizing services enhance the adhesion of coatings and offer electrical insulation. By creating a durable surface layer, anodizing significantly boosts the material’s resistance to corrosion and wear. This process increases the hardness of the metal, making it more resilient and resistant to scratches. It is also environmentally conscious, generating minimal waste, and the finished surfaces are easy to clean and maintain. Furthermore, anodized materials are capable of withstanding high temperatures without deteriorating.
Anodizing Type II: Sulfuric Acid Anodizing
The most common anodizing process, Type II uses sulfuric acid as the electrolyte. It produces a thicker oxide layer that allows for dyeing in various colors, making it ideal for both protective and decorative purposes.
| Surface preparation | Colors | Glossiness | Cosmetic availability | Thickness** | Visual appearance |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| As machined (Ra 3.2μm / Ra 126μin) | Clear, Black, Red, Blue, Orange, Gold | Glossy (Above 20 GU) | No | for clear: 8 to 12μm(0.0003” to 0.0004”) black and color: 12 to 16μm(0.0004” to 0.0006”) | Parts are anodized directly after machining. Machining marks will be visible. |
| Bead blasted | Clear, Black, Red, Blue, Orange, Gold | Matte (Below 10 GU) | Cosmetic on request | for clear: 8 to 12μm(0.0003” to 0.0004”) black and color: 12 to 16μm(0.0004” to 0.0006”) | Grainy texture, matte finish |
| Bead blasted | Clear, Black, Red, Blue, Orange, Gold | Glossy (Above 20 GU) | Cosmetic on request | for clear: 8 to 12μm(0.0003” to 0.0004”) black and color: 12 to 16μm(0.0004” to 0.0006”) | Grainy texture, glossy finish |
| Brushing(Ra 1.2μm / Ra 47μin) | Clear, Black, Red, Blue, Orange, Gold | Glossy (Above 20 GU) | Cosmetic on request | for clear: 8 to 12μm(0.0003” to 0.0004”) black and color: 12 to 16μm(0.0004” to 0.0006”) | Parts are manually brushed to reduce marks, then anodized. Brushing lines will be visible. |
Non-standard requests
1. We supply a range of standard colors. If you need a particular RAL or Pantone color code, please email us.
2. As a standard, our anodizing thickness will follow ISO 7599: ISO class AA10 (for clear) and ISO class AA15. If your parts require different standards, please email us.
Anodizing Type III: Hardcoat Anodizing (Hard Anodizing)
This type uses a higher current density and lower temperatures, resulting in a very thick and hard oxide layer. It is used in applications where durability, wear resistance, and high-strength coatings are required, such as in military and aerospace components.
| Surface preparation | Colors | Cosmetic availability | Thickness | Visual appearance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| As machined (Ra 3.2μm / Ra 126μin) | Black, Natural (thicker layers will appear darker) | No | 35 to 50μm(0.0013” to 0.0019”) | Parts are anodized directly after machining. Machining marks will be visible. |
| Bead blasted (Glass beads #120) | Black, Natural (thicker layers will appear darker) | Cosmetic on request | 35 to 50μm(0.0013” to 0.0019”) | Can be slightly visible if parts are “Not Cosmetic” Completely removed if parts are “Cosmetic” |
Anodizing FAQs
Aluminum, titanium, and magnesium are the most commonly anodized metals.
Anodized metal features a distinctive, durable finish recognizable by its varied colors, which depend on the alloy and anodizing process. These surfaces are harder and smoother than untreated metal, with a consistent color throughout the oxide layer, ensuring no discoloration if scratched.
The longevity of anodized surfaces is affected by the type of alloy, the anodizing process, and the environmental conditions. Anodized coatings are durable and can last for many years, maintaining their appearance and functionality as long as they are properly maintained.
Anodizing enhances the metal’s surface by increasing its hardness and wear resistance. This process forms a protective oxide layer that improves durability and corrosion resistance without compromising the metal’s inherent strength.