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Anodising

High-quality surface finishing for aluminium

Anodising: Electrolytic oxidation for long-lasting corrosion protection

Anodising (electrolytic oxidation of aluminium) is a surface finishing process that makes aluminium more resistant to external influences. Electrolytic treatment transforms the aluminium surface into a protective oxide layer. This layer increases corrosion resistance, improves wear resistance and provides a high-quality, decorative surface finish.

Anodising: Functional & durable

Anodising is a process for the surface treatment of aluminium. By means of anodic oxidation, a protective layer can be created on the metal, which prevents the natural, uncontrolled oxidation of the metal through the reaction with oxygen from the ambient air. The oxide layer grows 1/3 out of the metal and 2/3 into the metal. Anodising produces layer thicknesses of 5 – 25 micrometres.

Highest wear resistance

Ideal for components subject to mechanical stress

Increased corrosion resistance

Protection against environmental influences and chemicals

Durable material finishing

No flaking or peeling of the coating

Possible applications for anodised aluminium parts

Technically anodised aluminium is used wherever durability, protection and functionality are required. Typical areas of application are:

Mechanical Engineering & Industry

Protection against wear and chemical influences

Electronics & Electrical Engineering

Insulating layers for printed circuit boards and housings

Automotive engineering

Lightweight, resilient components with optimised surface

Medical technology

Biocompatible surfaces for medical instruments

Mechanical & plant engineering

Mechanically highly stressed components with maximum wear resistance

Aviation & aerospace

Lightweight but extremely robust components

Automotive industry

Optimal corrosion and abrasion resistance for chassis and engine parts

Electrical engineering

High-voltage insulation and thermal shielding

    Colour anodising & colour anodising – for individual designs

    In addition to functional properties, anodising also offers visual design options. Colour anodising allows aluminium parts to be dyed in various colours – from black and bronze to vibrant shades. The colouring takes place in the open pores of the oxide layer and is permanently retained.

    Possible applications for colour-anodised components

    Colour anodised components combine protection and design. They are used in many areas, including:

    Architecture & facade construction

    Weather-resistant, coloured aluminium profiles

    Aviation & Automotive

    Colour coding for components

    Furniture & Design

    High-quality, customised surfaces for interior and exterior furnishings

    Dimensions & technical possibilities

    Metalux offers anodising of aluminium in various sizes and weights. Our systems are designed to meet a wide range of requirements in order to realise individual customer wishes.

    What component sizes can be hard anodised?

    Procedure / ProcessingLength in mmWidth in mmDepth in mm

    Chromic acid and hard and sulphuric acid­anodise
    4600
    420
    1300

    Sulphuric acid and hard anodising, various colours
    2600
    300
    1000
    All product window sizes

    FAQ about anodising

    Does anodising also work with other metals?

    Anodising is a process that was specially developed for aluminium. Other metals such as titanium can also be anodised, but using different processes.

    What colours can aluminium be anodised in?

    Black, bronze and various shades of grey are possible as standard. Strong colours such as blue, red or gold can also be achieved using special colouring techniques

    Can aluminium also be anodised in white?

    Pure white cannot be achieved using the anodising process. However, aluminium can be brightened using special surface treatments or combined with a white top coat.

    What dimensions can be anodised and with what weight?

    The maximum dimensions depend on the size of our system technology. We would be happy to advise you individually on your components.

    What is special about anodised coatings?

    The oxide layer grows directly out of the aluminium and is firmly bonded to the material. As a result, it offers long-lasting protection without flaking or wearing off.