If you're working with CNC machined aluminum parts for cars, electronics, or industrial equipment, you've probably heard about anodizing.
What is Anodizing, Anyway?
Think of anodizing like force-growing a protective skin on aluminum. We dunk the part in a special acid bath and run electricity through it. This creates a super-hard, oxidized layer that's actually part of the metal itself - not just a coating on top.
Why Your Aluminum Parts Need This
1. Protection That Lasts
The anodized layer is:
- 30x more corrosion-resistant than raw aluminum
- Extremely scratch-resistant - harder than tool steel
- Heat-resistant up to 1,800°F (that's blowtorch territory)
2. Electrical Insulation
Here's something not everyone knows: the anodized layer doesn't conduct electricity. This is huge for:
- Electrical enclosures that need to prevent short circuits
- Mounting brackets for sensitive electronics
- Any part that might accidentally contact live wires
3. Looks That Mean Business
Anodizing gives you:
- Consistent, deep colors that won't chip or peel
- That professional OEM look customers expect
- Options from matte to glossy finishes
Real-World Applications
1.Auto Industry
- Engine components that can handle heat and chemicals
- Decorative trim that won't fade or scratch
- Brackets and mounts that last the life of the vehicle
2.Electrical/Electronics
- Heat sinks with better insulation properties
- Enclosures that protect against EMI/RFI interference
- Connector bodies that maintain precise dimensions
3.Industrial Equipment
- Wear parts that handle abrasion day after day
- Components that resist chemical exposure
- Safety equipment that needs to be highly visible (think orange or yellow)
Choosing the Right Type
Not all anodizing is created equal:
1.Type II (Standard)
- Good all-around protection
- Available in colors
- Most cost-effective option
2.Type III (Hardcoat)
- 2-3x thicker than Type II
- Maximum wear resistance
- Usually gray or black only
3.Clear (No color)
- Maintains aluminum's natural look
- Still provides great protection
The Bottom Line
Anodizing isn't just a "nice-to-have" - it's what separates professional-grade parts from amateur work. For maybe 10-20% additional cost, you get:
- 10x longer part life
- Better performance
- More professional appearance
- Higher customer satisfaction
| | CNC Turning, CNC Milling, Laser Cutting, Bending, Spining, Wire Cutting, Stamping, Electric Discharge Machining (EDM), Injection Molding,3D Printing,Rapid Prototype,Moulds etc. |
| | Aluminum: 2000 series, 6000 series, 7075, 5052, etc. |
| Stainlesss steel: SUS303, SUS304, SS316, SS316L, 17-4PH, etc. |
| Steel: 1214L/1215/1045/4140/SCM440/40CrMo, etc. |
| Brass: 260, C360, H59, H60, H62, H63, H65, H68, H70, Bronze, Copper |
| Titanium: Grade F1-F5 |
| Plastic: Acetal/POM/PA/Nylon/PC/PMMA/PVC/PU/Acrylic/ABS/PTFE/PEEK etc. |
| | Anodized, Bead Blasted, Silk Screen, PVD Plating, Zinc/Nickl/Chrome/Titanium Plating, Brushing, Painting, Powder Coated, Passivation, Electrophoresis, Electro Polishing, Knurl, Laser/Etch/Engrave etc. |
| | ±0.002 ~ ±0.005mm |
| | Min Ra 0.1~3.2 |
| CERTIFICATE | ISO9001:2015,AS9100D,ISO13485:2016,ISO45001:2018,IATF16949:2016,ISO14001:2015,ROSH,CE etc. |
FAQ
1. Are you a manufacturer or a trading company?
We are a factory located in Shenzhen, China, with 20 years of rich experience,
covering 6000 square meters. Complete facilities, including 3D quality inspection equipment, ERP system and 40 machines. If necessary, we can provide you with material certificates, sample quality inspection and other reports.
2. How to get a quote?
Detailed drawings (PDF/STEP/IGS/DWG...), including quality, delivery date, materials, quality, quantity, surface treatment and other information.
3. Can I get a quotation without drawings?
Can your engineering team draw for my creativity? Of course, we are also glad to receive your samples, pictures or detailed size drafts for accurate quotation.
4. Can you provide samples before mass production?
Of course, the sample fee is necessary. If possible, it will be returned during mass production.
5. What is the delivery date?
Generally, the sample lasts for 1-2 weeks and the batch production lasts for 3-4 weeks.
6. How do you control quality?
(1) Material Inspection - Check material surfaces and approximate dimensions.
(2) First inspection of production - ensure
critical dimensions in mass production.
(3) Sampling inspection - check the quality before delivery to the warehouse.
(4) Preshipment inspection - 100% inspection by QC assistant before shipment.
7. After sales service team
If you have any problems after receiving the product, you can provide feedback through voice call, video conference, email, etc. within one month. Our team will provide you with solutions within a week.
