If you want aluminum components that are of a high quality and will last for a long time, anodizing is a great choice. It is impossible for the oxide layer to chip, peel, or crack over time because it is completely integrated with the surface of the material. Paint and powder coating are not included in this category at all. Because of the superior bonding and adhesion of the anodized finish, it has a very long life span compared to other types of finishes. An additional benefit of anodizing is that it can harden the surface of the component up to a Rockwell hardness of 70C, which makes it more durable. Because anodized components are so long-lasting, they typically do not require additional maintenance such as oiling, conditioning, or repainting. In addition to this, hard-anodized aluminum is an electrical insulator and can be used as a viable insulating material in situations where other materials are found to be inadequate. When a part is given a specific color through the process of anodizing, the colorants and dyes used in the process do not sit precariously on a flat surface. The coloring agents penetrate the hollow pores that were produced as a result of the custom cnc milling reaction.
This ensures that the component will retain its original color despite being subjected to abrasion, wear, ultraviolet light, and other forms of damage
There is a wide selection of color finishes available, and the options change according to the kind of anodizing process that is being used
In addition to these benefits, the process is also cost-effective, as is the cost of maintaining the part over the course of its lifecycle
Not only that, but unlike other finishing processes, Custom cnc milling is relatively risk-free and generates a lower number of byproducts that are either hazardous to humans or harmful to the environment
What are some things I need to know before I anodize parts
Even though anodizing is a crucial step in the production of aluminum components of a high standard, there are a few considerations that need to be taken into account before beginning the process
Anodizing is not possible with every type of material, of course
The only metal that will ever need to be anodized by you is most likely aluminum, but titanium, zinc, tantalum, and niobium may also require a quick anodizing round
In order to successfully anodize a component, it must be completely submerged in the solution
In most cases, this will require you to mount the part on hangers, which means that your part will need to include design features that do not come into contact with the custom cnc milling solution. As a direct consequence of this, it is impossible to anodize a component completely across the entirety of its surface. An additional consideration to take into account is the possibility that the anodization process will result in a shift in the part's geometric dimensions as well as its tolerances. It is important to keep in mind that the anodizing process adds a layer to the component while you are designing it. Additionally, the surface roughness of your component will be altered by the custom cnc milling process. Why do you anodize parts? Anodizing is an essential process involved in the production of aluminum components. The procedure enhances the part's mechanical properties as well as its aesthetic qualities, thereby increasing the part's resistance to wear and tear and providing it with an appealing finish. Additionally, it enhances the resistance to corrosion; in fact, one of the primary benefits of anodizing is that it protects the aluminum components from rusting. How does anodizing work?
The process of anodizing involves placing a metal component into a bath containing an acid electrolyte and then electrifying both the component and the solution. It is an electrochemical process that gives the metal surface of the component a finish that is both long-lasting and aesthetically pleasing anodic oxide. What kinds of materials are suitable for anodizing? Anodization is essential for all different types of aluminum, and it can also be utilized for a variety of other metals, such as titanium, zinc, tantalum, and niobium. What kinds of chemicals are required for anodizing? Chromic acid, oxalic acid, or sulfuric acid are the three acids that are utilized most frequently when anodizing aluminum components. An integral part of the anodizing process in the aerospace industry is the combination of boric acid and phosphoric acid. Does the anodization eventually wear off? An acid wash or regular use can eventually wear off an anodized finish, despite the fact that anodizing leaves a very durable surface finish on your component.
