Aluminum Anodizing

Standard Anodizing (Type II)

Arrow Cryogenics Aluminum Anodizing Meets Specifications:

• MIL-A-8625 Type II Class 1(Non-Dyed) and Class 2 (Dyed)
  Conventional anodizing process done with sulfuric acid
• MIL-A-8625 Type III Class 1 (Non-Dyed) and Class 2 (Dyed)
  Hard Anodizing process.

Standard Anodizing (Type II)

Arrow Cryogenics' offers standard (Type II) aluminum anodizing at our state of the art building in Blaine, Minnesota. We also provide hard coat anodizing (Type III). We follow specifications that include: coating weight, corrosion resistance, paint adhesion, abrasion resistance and dyeing properties. In addition, we have our own guidelines for appearance, workmanship, inspection, testing and more.

What is aluminum anodizing?

Aluminum anodizing is a controlled electrochemical process. During the anodizing process an anodic film is formed by converting the surface into aluminum oxide. The aluminum oxide that is formed on the surface is uniform and denser then natural oxidation. In overview, anodizing is the process of chemically coating a metal (such as aluminum) with an oxide film that will protect or enhance the look of the final product by the process of electrolysis

Standard aluminum anodizing is used for some of the following reasons:

• Aesthetics
• Bonding
• Dielectric properties
• Improve lubrication
• Non-contaminating (Medical instrumentation )
• Corrosion resistance

How does aluminum anodizing affect dimensions?

It is important to understand when anodizing parts with tight dimensions that the coating will affect the final dimensions. 50% of the coating penetrates into the surface and 50% of the coating builds up on the surface. The final dimension is determined by the thickness of the coating. The thickness of coating is controlled with great accuracy by using state of the art controls. We work closely with our customers when tight dimensions are a requirement.

Anodizing can alter the finish on treated parts

By using a special chemical during the pretreatment of the aluminum we are able to achieve a satin finish. Some of our customers request a satin finish for reasons such as:

• To blend in machining lines
• To blend in extrusion lines
• To blend in scratches created during manufacturing
• To reduce glare

Dyeing after anodizing changes the color of the aluminum

After anodizing parts can either be not dyed (class I) or dyed (class II).

Clear Anodized

Or dyed (class II)

By using dyes following the anodizing process, we are able to achieve several colors. After the aluminum is dyed, the color is then sealed into the aluminum.

Below are the colors we currently have available for anodized aluminum:

Note: The colors shown are for general reference only and may be affected by the color settings of your computer monitor.

Other colors may be available upon request.

Arrow Cryogenics also has the capabilities to achieve other finishes prior to anodizing.

To review some of the other finishes, click on the links below:

Straightlining | Abrasive Blasting | Shot Blasting | Vibratory/Tumble Deburring | Thermal Deburring

Arrow Cryogenics is an ISO:9000:2001 certified company.

Please contact us for more information about our aluminum anodizing and hard coat anodizing services.