Frequently Asked Questions

What is hardcoat anodizing? What is the difference between regular and hardcoat anodizing? Can aluminum anodized parts be Teflon™ coated? What is Iridite? What is Bright-Diping? Does aluminum metal corrode?

What is hardcoat anodizing?
Hardcoat anodizing is an electro-chemical process of converting aluminum to aluminum oxide. The value of anodizing your product is that it takes what you currently have and finishes it…with strength. Anodizing provides a durable, resistant substance to aluminum. This coating produces a soft to medium-hard protection, making the aluminum less susceptible to damage and corrosion while generating an electrically non-conductive exterior. Hardcoat anodizing makes it possible to produce thick wear and corrosion resistance coating on a variety of aluminum alloys. The hard coating on aluminum makes it possible to use the light metal in many design applications normally restricted to steel. Hardcoating is being used in architectual anodizing where its natural color and wear resistance are assets. Anodizing capabilities are being applied to traditional industrial products, computer cabinetry, musical instruments, military and commercial aircraft parts, sporting goods, to name a few product usages.
What is the difference between regular and hardcoat anodizing?
Regular or color anodizing is a process used mainly for corrosion resistance and decorative purposes. Coating thicknesses range from 0.0002 to 0.0006 and can be dyed in a variety of colors. Hardcoat anodizing requires higher electrical power and produces thicker coatings. Depending on the alloy, coating thicknesses up to 0.008" can be produced in the laboratory. In production .002+ .0005 is normal.
Can aluminum anodized parts be Teflon™ coated?
Yes. For a better co-efficient of friction and further corrosion resistance, anodized aluminum parts are Teflon™ impregnated.
What is Iridite?
It is a primer for paint.
What is Bright-Diping?
It is a process for increasing the specularity or brightness of aluminum by leveling the microscopic roughness or "peaks and valleys" on the surface of aluminum parts.
Does aluminum metal corrode?
Yes, Aluminum can corrode. However, when corrosion on aluminum in the form of uniform oxide film takes place, this film protects the rest of the metal from further corrosion. Anodizing of aluminum is that protective coating.