ANODIZING
We are all experiencing an increase in the usage of aluminum
in our everyday lives. Aluminum is lighter than other commonly
used metals, and is easy to machine, extrude, or cast. An aluminum
part, when made the anode in an electrolytic cell, forms an
anodic oxide on the surface of the aluminum part. The process
of producing a controlled, anodic coating or anodic oxide on
the surface of an aluminum part, is known as anodizing. The
anodic oxide grows from the base metal and is an integral part
of the metal surface. This anodic oxide film is hard, corrosion
resistant, abrasion resistant with excellent wear characteristics.
It is also porous which allows for coloration or dyeing.
Colored anodic coatings allow aluminum parts to be used
in a wide variety of applications. The appearance of precious
and semi-precious metals can be duplicated with some colored
anodic coatings. New colors, designs and patterns are being
introduced each year.
The excellent corrosion and wear resistance of the anodic
coating allows for uses ranging from cookware, the space shuttle
or even satellite parts. Automobile trim, exterior architectural
applications, and even airplane components use anodized aluminum
components.
PRE-TREATMENT PRODUCTS
|
Desired Result
|
Type
|
Soil
|
Surface
Condition
|
Product
|
| Soak Cleaner
|
Non-Silicated, Neutral, Non-Etch
|
Oil, Dirt, Drawing Compounds,
Light Inks & Dyes |
All Alloys Wrought or Cast |
Amfosol A65NCS |
| Soak Cleaner
|
Acidic, Non-Silicated, Light
Etch |
Oil, Dirt, Drawing Compounds,
Light Inks & Dyes |
All Alloys Wrought or Cast |
Ambidet® PS-96
|
| Soak Cleaner
|
Silicated, Non-Etch |
Oil, Dirt, Drawing Compounds,
Light Inks & Dyes |
All Alloys Wrought or Cast |
Amfosol NSK |
| Soak Cleaner
|
Mildly Alkaline, Non-Etch |
Buffing Compounds, Light Oils |
All Alloys Wrought or Cast |
Amfosol MPC |
| Etch |
Alkaline, Fine Etch, Satin Appearance
|
N/A |
All Alloys Except Cast |
Marox A-70 |
| Etch Life Extension
|
Alkaline |
N/A |
All Alloys Except Cast |
394 Etch Extender |
| Electropolish
|
Bright, Reflective Surface |
N/A |
All Alloys Except Cast |
METALGLEAM™ AR-1150 |
|
