Benefits of Anodizing
Anodizing is the process that makes a non-ferrous metal, such as aluminum, corrosion-resistant and non-conductive. The process can also be used to color a part. Some anodized parts have a hardness equal to the strongest of steels and iron. Anodized parts have longer life and typically don’t chip. The oxide surface will not decompose and cause health concerns.
Anodizing protects aircraft components from corrosion and from undesired electric currents. Since anodized parts can withstand high heat, anodizing is also a preferred process of the food service industry.
Cleaned parts are submerged into an electrolyte solution that is set to the right temperature. A current is applied to the parts that creates a strong oxide layer on the surface of the part. After an optional color is applied, the process ends with a nickel acetate, sodium dichromate, teflon, or hot water seal to secure the corrosion resistance and color stability.
According to MIL-A-8625, there are three main types of anodizing:
- Type I – Chromic. Choose this option if you want the anodic layer to be very thin (.00002-.0001). The layer is too thin to successfully add color. (FMC does not process Type I at this time)
- Type II – Sulfuric. Choose this option for moderate thickness (.0001-.001) and for coloring the parts.
- Type III – Hard Sulfuric. Choose this option if you want the part to have a thicker (.001-.002)and more abrasion-resistant coating.
F.M. Callahan & Son has specialized in anodizing for over 50 years. Contact us today to discuss your anodizing job.