Aluminum die casting corrosion protection

[grayseal]

A heating element is incorported into the wall of a small (3" diameter by 2" high) die cast aluminum (A360) boiler used to generate steam (from distilled water) for sterilization. After a few cycles, white debris is found throughout the system. EDS analysis confirms that it is mostly aluminum oxide. Disassembly of the boiler reveals that it is the source. We are looking for a surface treatment or coating that would provide corrosion resistance. Long term solution is most likely using a copper alloy.
grayseal

 

[MikeHalloran]

Two things to try:

- anodize the aluminum

- copper plate the aluminum



Mike Halloran
Pembroke Pines, FL, USA

 

[CoryPad]

Maybe electroless nickel plating

 

[grayseal]

MikeHalloran and CoryPad,

Thanks for the suggestions. We will be trying electoless nickel plating first followed by anodizing if necessary.

grayseal