KENAT,
I agree at the multiple ways to approach anodizing (i.e. masking vs spotface).
In general I am asking in terms of farming the part out and having it ready for assembly when it comes in. I am more interested in direct cost.
Realistically we have an internal shop that initially machines...
We have already asked the first question and determined, yes we need a finish for corrosion resistance and at 70 degC surface temp we need to radiate as much heat as possible. It just so happens Anodizing gives us a great surface finish and a high but doesn't have great electrical conductivity...
I am looking for a general cost comparison for the finishing operations for aluminum alloy. The specific question I am trying to determine the answer to is: Is there a cost effective (cheaper) alternative to Anodizing aluminum alloy for which we can retain the Emissivity and thermal conductance...