When thinking about who to choose for anodizing services, keep in mind that it is not as simple as it might first appear. Depending on the type of anodized aluminum you need, you might need to work with a different type of anodized for your project. This article will help you to understand the different types of anodizing services and which company is the best for you.
What is Anodizing?
Anodizing is a process that adds a protective layer of aluminum oxide to a metal surface. Anodizing is a non- corrosive process that keeps aluminum’s natural grain pattern intact. This process is often used on aluminum extrusions, aluminum alloys, aluminum plates, aluminum bars, aluminum extruded profiles and aluminum strips for a variety of applications. The anodizing process is used to protect aluminum from corrosion and abrasion. It helps to maintain the strength and structure of the metal, while still providing a durable coating that resists chipping, cracking, and surface pitting. Anodizing is a coating process that changes the natural color of metal into a reddish-brown oxide color. It is a coating that is used to protect metals from corrosion and abrasion. The oxides are also heat resistant, making them non-reactive to the metal. It also maintains the strength and structure of the metal, while still providing a durable coating that resists chipping, cracking, and surface pitting.
Types of Anodizing
Oxidation Anodizing – This form of anodizing is used on extrusions, plates, and bars. The original color of the metal is able to show through while giving the metal a protective oxide layer.
Buff Anodizing – This form of anodizing is used on profiles, strips, and rods. The anodized layer is brushed onto the metal, giving a smoother, more polished appearance.
Black Anodizing – This is the most common type of anodizing, used on aluminum extrusions, bars, and plates. The metal is colored with a deep brown, almost black, oxide layer.
Silver Anodizing – This is the same as black anodizing, but with a silver color instead of a brown color.
What is the Difference Between Anodizing and Colored Aluminum?
Anodizing is a process that gives metals a protective layer of oxide. Colored aluminum is commonly understood to be a paint, decorative coating, or plating that is added onto bare metal. The most common type of anodizing is black anodizing. This is when a metal is color-coated with a reddish-brown oxide layer. Both types of anodizing may also be called “color coating,” “coating,” or “plating.” Black anodizing is the most common type of anodizing. It is when a metal is color-coated with a reddish-brown oxide layer. Commonly called “black anodizing,” this form of anodizing is when a metal is color-coated with a reddish-brown oxide layer. Commonly called “black anodizing,” this form of anodizing is when a metal is color-coated with a reddish-brown oxide layer. Silver anodizing is the same as black anodizing, but with a silver color instead of a brown color.
Bead Blast
This type of anodizing is used on extrusions, plates, and bars. The anodizing process is commonly called bead blast, anodizing, or bead blasted. The surface of the metal is slightly rough and is blasted with ions of a silver-rich alloy. This forms a reddish-brown layer of oxide on the surface of the metal, which is then polished. Commonly called “bead blast or bead polish” or “bead blasted and polished,” this type of anodizing is when a metal is color-coated with a reddish-brown oxide layer. The surface of the metal is slightly rough and is blasted with ions of a silver-rich alloy. This forms a reddish-brown layer of oxide on the surface of the metal, which is then polished.
Anodization Process
Electrolysis – The metal is placed in an electrolyte solution and an electric current is passed through the metal. The metal acquires hydrogen from the electrolyte and deposits the metal onto itself.
Subsequent To Electrolysis – The metal is then placed in a silanizing tank, where the hydrogen ions are removed from the metal.
Oxidation – The metal is exposed to oxygen in the air, forming an oxide layer on the surface of the metal.
Final Polishing – The metal is then polished to its desired finish.
What to Look for in a Company for Anodizing
Before choosing an anodizing services company, it is important to do your research and read reviews. Search online and ask around to find a company that you can trust. When looking for an anodizing company, consider the following factors:
Experience – Anodizing is a complex process. It requires a great deal of experience to complete it successfully. The company must be able to complete the job with minimal issues and quality assurance issues. Experience is one of the most important factors you can look for when choosing a company for anodizing.
Equipment – Anodizing is a process that requires specialized equipment. The equipment must be regularly inspected and maintained to ensure it is functioning properly. It is also important to make sure they are in good working order.
Quality Control – Quality control is another important factor you can look for when choosing a company for anodizing. A reputable company will have a quality control process in place. This process will ensure the company follows best practices and delivers quality work.
Customer Service – Last but not least, you should look for a company that offers great customer service. If something goes wrong with your anodizing project, make sure you have a good support team to help you out.
