Services/Finishes

Caution!
Visiting this web site requires a newer version of Netscape Communicator.

Visit Microsoft's Web site to obtain the newest version of Internet Explorer, or visit Netscape's Web site to obtain the newest version of Netscape Communicator.

Visiting this web site without first upgrading your browser may result in unreliable behavior.



	COMPANY

		Home
		Contact Us
		Services/Finishes
		Links
		Articles
		Company History
		Policies
		FAQ
		Customer Approvals

		Sitemap

Quality Plating Co., Inc.

801-355-7424

sales@qualityplating.com

Services/Finishes: We offer a wide range of plating finishes as indicated by the following list. We have included some general information, but please contact us to answer questions related to your specific needs.

Anodizing, Hard

Teflon post treatment available

MIL-A-8625 Type III, Class 1 & 2 and AMS 2468

Hard anodizing is an electro-chemical process which builds an aluminum oxide coating on the aluminum surface. Hard anodizing is specifically used to increase the abrasion resistance of aluminum. The coating is very hard and machinists' are not excited to drill through the coating or clean up threads which don't fit after anodizing. The thickness is typically 0.0018" to 0.0022". The build up is 1/2 the anodize thickness since the anodizing penetrates the surface of the aluminum.

In order to keep the hard anodizing as hard as possible, it is not sealed unless instructions are given to do so. In order to increase the corrosion resistance of hard anodize, it can be sealed in DI water, nickel acetate or sodium dichromate. The sealing will decrease the hardness of the coating.

Our process is a standard hard anodize process which turns the aluminum dark as the coating gets thicker. It can be dyed black, but other colors show very poorly in the dark background.

All anodized parts must have a contact to the base aluminum; therefore, it is common to have a rack mark. The size of the rack mark will depend on the size and geometry of the part. Please call to discuss the rack mark if you have concerns.

Frequently Asked Questions

What aluminum alloys may be difficult to hard anodize? Aluminum alloys are not a homegenous mixture. Foundry procedures and cooling times can cause pockets of metals in the alloy. 2000 series aluminum can have some pockets of copper and these are places where the part can possibly burn because the electrical resistance is lower. 7000 series aluminum can get blisters in areas where zinc accumulated.

What should I do with threads? Unless you cut the threads to accept the anodizing thickness, threads should be plugged or covered to keep them from being anodized. Remember the pitch diameter changes four times the build-up per surface. Also take into account that more anodizing will build-up on the peak of the thread than in the valley.