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Anodizing is a surface treatment that enhances the durability and appearance of non-ferrous metals like aluminum, zinc, and titanium alloys. The process involves manipulating the natural oxide layers on the metal to produce thicker, more durable films that resist wear and corrosion. Anodizing also creates attractive surface patterns and multi-colored effects. The process involves passing an electric current through an electrolyte solution between a positively charged anode and a negatively charged cathode. Anodized oxide layers are porous and require a sealant for maximum resistance to corrosion and wear.
Anodizing is a protective and decorative surface treatment used to improve the working qualities and aesthetic appearance of items made from a range of metals including aluminium, zinc and titanium alloys. The treatment involves manipulating the natural oxide layers on the metals to produce thicker, more durable films. These enhanced oxide layers give the items greater resistance to wear and corrosion and provide surfaces that are more receptive to paints, dyes and adhesives. When applied thinly, anodized films also tend to cause light interference resulting in attractive surface patterns and multi-colored effects. In addition to the improved wear and corrosion resistance afforded by anodizing, treated parts are also less prone to exhibit wear on the friction surfaces.
Oxide formation on metal surfaces is a natural phenomenon resulting from exposure to oxygen and humidity in the air. Although oxidation on ferrous metals, also known as rust, can cause eventual destruction of the material, metals such as aluminum, zinc, titanium, magnesium and tantalum alloys can benefit from an oxide layer. If manipulated to be thick enough, these oxidative layers can offer corrosion and wear resistance properties to these metals. This is the principle behind the anodizing process used to impart a protective and attractive finish on many non-ferrous metal items.
The anodizing process involves passing an electric current through an electrolyte solution between a positively charged anode, in this case the anodized element, and a negatively charged cathode. This resulting reaction changes the crystalline structure of the anode surface and causes an oxide layer to be deposited thereon in what is known as an electrolytic passivation process. The characteristics of this oxide film can be manipulated during this process, thus allowing for a high degree of control over the end result. Generally the synthesized layers are more robust than those found in nature. Interestingly, the role of the anode played by the product is the source of the name of anodizing.
Anodized oxide layers are generally quite porous by nature and require the application of a sealant to ensure maximum resistance to corrosion and wear. However, the adhesion of the film to the metal is much stronger than traditional plating or varnish films, making the anodized finishes particularly durable. This durability provides an excellent foundation for the post-treatment application of paints and stains, with colorful anodized finishes exhibiting exceptional longevity even with continued use. Anodizing also helps prevent seizing, or adhesive wear, of threaded or sliding parts at their points of friction.
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