BTR-Plating Resources offers a wide-ranging variety of anodizing services with the ability to anodize aluminum extrusions, die-castings, sheets and billets. Our staff of anodizing experts have extensive knowledge and experience anodizing fabricated parts and assemblies. Our processes result in a cost-effective, corrosion resistant and scratch resistant finish for your manufacturing needs.
Anodizing is a process used to improve corrosion resistance of aluminum and aluminum-based alloys. The material is cleaned, then immersed in a bath of acids. The metal is the positive pole, or anode, in the acid bath. A current is applied and oxidation occurs. After the item is rinsed, a second step or sealing treatment is applied. The coating is frequently colored using organic dyes or metallic salts. We offer three variations of aluminum anodizing per MIL-A-8625:
Type 1 Chromic Acid Anodizing
Chromic Anodizing yields the thinnest coatings (only .05 to .1 mils thick). It is a good choice when a part is complex and difficult to rinse because chromic acid is less corrosive than other anodizing methods. Chromic anodize also reduces the fatigue strength of the aluminum less and is less corrosive than sulfuric acid and is easier to rinse.
Type 11, Sulfuric Acid Anodizing
Sulfuric Anodizing yields coatings under 1 mil thick. Although it offers mild abrasion resistance it is more durable than chromic anodize. The most desirable feature of this form of anodizing would be the excellent results from dyeing yielding deep and rich colors.
Type 111 Hardcoat Anodizing
Hardcoat Anodizing uses a sulfuric acid electrolyte, although at a lower temperature. Hardcoat anodize's claim to fame is wear resistance. This will produce a Rockwell C-scale rating of 60-70. This makes it an excellent candidate for many wear situations. Hardcoat anodizing results in a tougher surface because of the thickness of the coating. Because hardcoat anodizing leaves a darker finish, it is not suitable for dyeing.
Benefits of Sulfuric Anodizing:
Resistance to wearing & scratching
Won't peel or flake
Easy to clean
Finger prints don't show
Old anodized coatings are easily removed
Multiple choices of color available
Less expensive to produce and maintain
Benefits of Hardcoat Anodizing
Excellent Di-electric properties
Increased resistance to corrosion
Excellent thermal insulation
Ability to retain lubricants and
PTFE coatings
Resistance to wearing & scratching
Won't peel or flake
We are certified to AS9100
the international management system standard for the Aircraft, Space
and Defense (AS&D) industry. The standard provides suppliers with a
comprehensive quality system for providing safe and reliable
products to the aerospace industry. AS 9100
also addresses civil & military aviation requirements.