Anodized Aluminum Colors: Coloring Aluminum Products

Anodized aluminum is a process that changes the surface of aluminum by adding a protective oxide layer. This layer can be colored in any color, making it an excellent choice for products that need to look good on the outside.

Many different colors are available, so you can find the perfect one to match your product's design. Anodizing also makes the aluminum more durable and resistant to corrosion. If you're looking for a way to add some personality to your products, consider using anodized aluminum.

Basic Of Anodizing Process

Anodizing is a chemical process that coats the surface of aluminum with an oxide layer. The aluminum is placed in an acidic solution, passing a direct current through it. This causes the formation of an oxide layer on the aluminum's surface.

The thickness of this layer can be controlled by the amount of time the aluminum exposes to the current. With proper control, the thickness of the anodized coating can be kept to a minimum while still providing excellent protection against corrosion and wear. The process is very easy and requires only a few chemicals and a power source.

Anodizing Colors Steps!

The anodizing colors process is pretty simple. You just need to mix up some chemicals, power up your anodizing machine, and let it do its thing. The beauty of this process is that you can get any color you want by simply changing the anodizing solution. This means that you can produce any CNC machining parts in any color you can imagine. Let's take a look at the steps of anodizing colors:

1.Cleaning And Etching Of The Aluminum Part:

The first step is to clean and etch the aluminum machining part. This removes any dirt, grease, or other contaminants from the surface of the aluminum. It also creates a rougher surface that the anodizing solution can cling to.

Then, the part is placed in an etching solution for a few minutes. This helps to further prepare the surface for anodizing by making it more uniform. Also, if you want to add color to the anodized layer, this is the time to do it. Simply adding a dye to the etching solution will cause the anodized layer to take on that color.

2.Building The Film Layer:

Building the firm layer is the next step in anodizing. This is done by passing a direct current through the part while submerging it in an electrolyte solution. The current causes the formation of an oxide layer on the surface of the aluminum.

This layer is what gives anodized aluminum its distinctive look and feel. The thickness of the coating can be controlled by the amount of time the part is exposed to the current. So, if you want a thicker anodized layer, you can simply increase the exposure time.

3.Adding Color:

As we mentioned before, if you want to add color to the anodized layer, it is time to do it. Adding a dye to the electrolyte solution will cause the anodized layer to take on that color. You can experiment with different shades to create any color you can imagine. Below are a few steps are given:

Electrolytic Coloring:
It is the most common method of coloring anodized aluminum. It involves adding a dye to the electrolyte solution and passing a current through the part. The current causes the paint to be absorbed into the anodized layer, giving it its color.

Dip Coloring:
Dip coloring is similar to electrolytic coloring, but the part is dipped into the dye solution instead of passing through it. The anodized layer gives a more uniform color.

Integral Coloring:
Integral coloring is a bit more complicated than the other methods. The process of anodizing aluminum is adding the dye to the metal piece before it undergoes electrolytic treatment.

Interference Coloring:
Interference coloring is another method of coloring anodized aluminum. In this process, the part is passed through an electrolyte solution and then exposed to light. The light waves cause the formation of a thin, transparent film on the surface of the anodized layer. This film reflects light, giving the anodized coating its distinctive color.

4.Sealing:

After the parts are colored, it seals to protect the anodized layer.
Sealing also helps to preserve the color of the anodized coating. The piece is dipped in a sealing solution and then allowed to dry.
There you have it! These are the steps of anodizing colors. As you can see, the process is pretty simple. And, with some practice, you can produce products in any color you can imagine.

Color Matching And Avoid The Color Variation!

Now that you know how to anodize aluminum colors, you may wonder how to match your products' colors and avoid color variation. Don't worry; we've got you covered. Below are a few tips on how to match colors and avoid color variation:

1. Use The Same Dye:

If you want to match the colors of your products, it's essential to use the same dye. This can ensure that the colors will be consistent from one product to the next. Using the same color dye will also help to avoid color variation.

2. Use The Same Current:

By using the same current, you can ensure that the anodized layer will be the same thickness. This can help to avoid color variation. Also, be sure to use the same electrolyte solution. The same current and same solution will help produce more consistent color.

3. Use The Same Exposure Time:

Another step you can take to match colors and avoid color variation is to use the same exposure time. This helpful tip will guarantee that your anodized layer is of even thickness.

4. Use The Same Sealing Solution:

You can also help to match colors and avoid color variation by using the same sealing solution. You can also preserve the anodized layer's color by applying the same sealing solution. So, if you want to achieve consistent colors, be sure to use the same sealing solution.

5. Use The Same Lighting:

If you're using interference coloring, it's essential to use the same lighting. Also, be sure to use the same light source and exposure time. Using a consistent color can help you achieve colors that are more accurate to what you want.
By following this advice, you can help to match colors and avoid color variation. With a little practice, you'll be able to produce products that are consistent in color.

How To Release The Color From An Anodized Part If It Doesn't Match?

Finally, let's say you've anodized your part, but the color doesn't match what you were hoping for. There are ways to remove the stain from an anodized part. Below are some methods you can use to remove the paint from an anodized part if it doesn't match:

1. Use A Dremel Tool:

One way to remove the color from an anodized part is to use a Dremel tool. This method will work best if the anodized layer is thin. To remove the paint, use a grinding wheel to grind away the anodized coating.

2. Use Chemical Strippers:

Another way to remove the color from an anodized part is to use chemical strippers. This technique works best with thicker anodized layers.

3. Use Sandblasting:

You may also sandblast an anodized component to take away the color. After treating the aluminum surface, you'll be able to see the metal beneath.

4. Use Electrolytic Etching:

A fourth way to remove the color from an anodized part is to use electrolytic etching. This is the most challenging type of anodization to remove and uses an electric current.

Conclusion

The anodized aluminum colors can be customized to fit your customer's specific needs. Different anodizing processes will create different shades and hues for your product, so it is essential to consult a professional before making any decisions.

By working with a group of specialists, you can ensure that you are getting the best possible results for your project. At WorthyHardware, we specialize in color matching and custom finishes. We would love to help you choose the perfect shade or hue for your next anodized aluminum project!

Worthy Hardware is a CNC manufacturing and sheet metal fabrication company,including CNC machining services,CNC milling services, CNC turning services, laser cutting services and stamping services.Call us +86-76989919645 or email us [email protected] for more discounts for your projects.