Alternative to anodized aluminum

[Richard63]

I get aluminum parts made and usually have them anodized for appearance and scratch resistance. The problem is that it usually adds a couple of days to deliveries.

Is there a low cost alternative to anodizing that can be done in-house by dipping or brushing? Something that does not require expensive equipment,and is not hazardous, and inexpensive?

Richard

http://www.led-inc.com

 

[ornerynorsk]

Why are you anodizing now, is it aesthetics, corrosion control, hardness of surface? After you have determined what it is that anodizing is giving you, how much of it are you willing to compromise for a quick and dirty process?

 

[Richard63]

Mostly aesthetics. The hardness is nice to have, but could sacrifice some hardenss.

Richard

http://www.led-inc.com

 

[KENAT]

So, are you color anodizing?

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[MikeHalloran]

Dykem can be purchased in several colors, and in spray cans.
It's not as durable as anodize, nor alodine, but it's pretty easy to apply and dries fast.


Mike Halloran
Pembroke Pines, FL, USA

 

[shawnpeter]

if it's purely aesthetics just go to Autozone and buy some of that Dupont anodizing paint in a spray can.

You can anodize your self, and there are plenty of websites that sell the chemicals, tanks, power supplies, etc.

 

[KENAT]

Depending where you are the legislative 'health and safety' and 'environmental' rules and regs may well make anodizing yourself a non starter.

Heck, in some places using spray paint without a full up paint booth may be a no no.

That said, my go to back up for Anodize is to use Chem Film (Alodine/Alochrome...). Just be aware that last I knew the ROHS compliant versions have limited color options.

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[mcgyvr]

I have never found Alodine to be a suitable "cosmetic" replacement for anodizing mainly because everytime I've seen alodine you see drip marks, uneven stains,etc...

 

[KENAT]

Really, most of the Chem Filmed parts I've seen lately (with clear coating) I had trouble telling they'd been treated it was so clean - we actually tried sending some back!

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[mcgyvr]

maybe its just the company we used.. We don't use them anymore as they couldn't do a decent powdercoat job either..

 

[FACS]

Painting aluminum without alodine first isn't a long term solution. Alodine isn't a replacement for anodize, it's a shelf life treatment and pre-paint treatment.

The only other thing you can do is electroless nickle plate, but you have to do two processes and buy the chemicals, it won't save you much time or money.

Charlie

http://www.facsco.com

 

[Richard63]

It sounds like there are not any good alternatives that save time and still give good results. I'll stick with the anodizing. Thanks everyone.

Richard

http://www.led-inc.com

 

[KENAT]

You really haven't defined what 'good results' are. If you can give a better idea of what requirements your finish has then someone may be able to suggest something.

I must admit, I find the idea of wanting to bring it in house a bit unusual, most places seem to want to outsource everything they can these days - or maybe I've just been at my current place too long.

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