Today, many products are being improved with a process known as anodizing, and there are many benefits to realize once metals like aluminum have been anodized. Let’s take a closer look at the process and why hard coat anodizing is the metal finishing solution for many businesses in the Twenty First Century.
What Does Anodize Mean?
Anodize means to coat something with an oxide layer for protection. In the case of aluminum, anodizing coats metal surfaces with aluminum oxide. An anode is part of an electrical circuit which may be positive or negative, depending on the situation. So, essentially, the metal becomes part of an electric circuit and this increases the natural aluminum oxide layer on its surfaces.
Increasing the oxide layer makes the metal more resistant to corrosion. This is especially important for materials which must endure toxic environments. Once anodized, metals are better able to receive finishes like paint and other coatings.
Hard Coat Anodizing
The hard coat or hardcoat process was designed to provide an even more durable surface for materials like aluminum, magnesium, and zinc. Hardcoating also creates a surface which is harder and smoother. The process begins as normal anodizing and a layer of aluminum oxide (when aluminum materials are used) is created on the surface. However, it is then submerged in a cold sulfuric acid solution in electro-static conditions, for twenty minutes or longer (depending on the coating thickness needed).
Hardcoating Benefits
The benefits of the hardcoating process are many. For instance, you may receive:
* Enhanced resistance to corrosion
* Increased abrasion resistance
* Does not contaminate easily (commonly used for medical instruments)
* Better lubrication
* Wear resistance
* Lightweight
* Flame resistant
* Smoother and better looking appearance
* Dielectric or insulating properties
Hardcoating and Sealing
In some case, there is no need to seal metals after they have been hardcoated. For example, metals are not sealed when maximum resistance to abrasion is desired. However, if abrasion is not a top concern but there is need for enhanced corrosion resistance, sealing is usually done.
Hardcoating and its Uses Today
You will see hardcoated materials in a wide variety of applications, such as:
* Aviation industry
* Electronics
* Food preparation and manufacturing
* Marine products
* Medical and dental equipment
* Sporting goods
* Law enforcement industry
* Military
* Home furnishings
Anodizing metals (like aluminum) creates a product highly desired for a number of commercial and consumer applications. Hardcoat anodizing is a step up in the anodizing process and top metal finishing companies are working hard to fill the needs of industry. If you need finished metals with enhanced properties, hard coat anodizing is well worth considering.
Electro Polish has many decades of experience in the metal finishing business and offers services like powder coating, passivation, and hard coat anodizing, in Southwestern Ohio. Visit their website or call 937-222-3611 for more details.
