Custom Aluminum
Anodizing Services
Enhance the aesthetics, corrosion resistance, and surface hardness of your machined parts. We offer premium Type II (Decorative) and Type III (Hardcoat) anodizing in a wide range of custom colors.
What is Aluminum Anodizing?
Anodizing is an electrochemical process that converts the metal surface into a decorative, durable, corrosion-resistant, anodic oxide finish. Unlike paint or plating, this oxide is fully integrated with the underlying aluminum substrate, so it cannot chip or peel.
Corrosion Resistance
The anodic oxide layer forms a protective barrier that seals the aluminum from harsh environmental factors and chemicals.
Wear & Tear Resistance
Especially with Type III Hardcoat, the surface hardness can approach that of sapphire, making it ideal for high-friction moving parts.
Color & Aesthetics
The porous nature of unsealed anodized aluminum allows it to absorb dyes incredibly well, resulting in deep, rich, and permanent colors.
Electrical Insulation
While aluminum is highly conductive, the aluminum oxide layer formed during anodizing is an excellent electrical insulator.
Type II vs. Type III Anodizing
HUADE complies with the MIL-A-8625 standard. Understanding the difference between Standard and Hardcoat anodizing is crucial for your part's application and tolerances.
Type II Anodizing
Standard / Decorative
Creates a relatively thin oxide layer that provides excellent corrosion resistance and forms the best base for color dyeing. Ideal for consumer products, electronics housings, and cosmetic parts.
- Coating Thickness 5 - 25 µm
- Wear Resistance Moderate
- Color Options Excellent (All Colors)
Type III Anodizing
Hardcoat
Produced at lower temperatures and higher voltages, resulting in a much thicker, denser, and incredibly hard layer. Essential for aerospace, military, and heavy industrial machinery.
- Coating Thickness 25 - 50+ µm
- Wear Resistance Extreme
- Color Options Limited (Usually Dark/Black)
Available Colors
Type II anodizing allows for a vibrant spectrum of dyes. We offer standard industry colors, and can match specific Pantone or RAL codes for production volume orders.
* Note: Type III Hardcoat naturally turns dark gray or bronze depending on the aluminum alloy, limiting dye colors mostly to Black.
Anodizing Design Guidelines
To ensure perfect assembly and aesthetics, engineers must account for dimensional changes and the physical anodizing process during the CAD design phase.
Dimensional Impact
Anodizing "grows" out of the surface and "penetrates" into the material equally. You must account for this added thickness on tight-tolerance features like press fits or fine threads.
| Anodize Type | Total Thickness | Added Size per Surface |
|---|---|---|
| Type II (Standard) | ~ 5 - 25 µm | ~ 2.5 - 12.5 µm |
| Type III (Hardcoat) | ~ 25 - 50 µm | ~ 12.5 - 25 µm |
Process Considerations
Masking (Protecting Surfaces)
If certain features (like threaded holes or electrical grounding points) must remain bare aluminum, they need to be masked. Please provide a 2D drawing clearly highlighting masked areas.
Racking Marks
Electrical current must be applied to the part during the anodizing bath via conductive racks. This creates tiny un-anodized contact points (racking marks). Indicate acceptable rack locations on non-cosmetic surfaces.
Material Compatibility
Anodizing works best on 6000-series (e.g., 6061) and 7000-series (e.g., 7075) aluminum. 2000-series alloys containing high copper can be difficult to anodize and may not achieve consistent colors.
Anodizing RFQ & FAQs
Everything you need to know about integrating anodizing into your CNC machining or sheet metal order with Huade Precision.
Can I order anodizing as a standalone service?
We primarily offer anodizing as a finishing service for parts we machine or fabricate in-house (CNC Machining, Sheet Metal). This allows us to strictly control tolerances before and after the coating process.
What is the lead time for anodized parts?
Adding Type II or Type III anodizing typically adds 3 to 5 business days to the standard machining lead time. Custom color matching or intricate masking may require additional time.
How do I specify anodizing on my RFQ?
When submitting your quote request, include a PDF drawing that calls out "MIL-A-8625 Type II (or III)" along with the desired color. Please also indicate any critical tight tolerances or specific surfaces that require masking.
Quote Machining & Anodizing
Get a turnkey manufacturing solution. Upload your 3D CAD files today, and our engineers will provide a complete quote including machining, tolerances, and surface finishing.