1)

Anodizing is an electrochemical process that converts the metal surface into a

decorative, durable, corrosion-resistant, anodic oxide finish. Aluminum is ideally suited to anodizing, although other nonferrous metals, such as magnesium and titanium, also can be anodized. The process is called "anodizing" because the part to be treated forms the anode electrode of an electrical circuit. Anodizing increases corrosion resistance and wear resistance.

2)

Al with over 3% copper (2011, 2017, 2024) & 5% silicon (319, 333, most die casting

alloys, 328) do NOT readily accept thick anodized coatings

3)

The process of Anodizing is as followsCleaning removes fabrication oils and buffing compounds by soaking in a waterbased solution containing mild acids or alkalis along with dispersants and detergents Pretreatment used for decorative purposes to improve the appearance of a surface prior to the anodizing step. Anodizing produces the actual coating. Acting as the positive electrode, a direct current is passed through the item to be anodized while submerged in a bath of water and acid (sulfuric, chromic, and phosphoric) used as the electrolyte. Coloring - is an option approached in either of two ways: Integral Color imparts color to the coating as it is being formed in the anodizing bath, which has been modified for that purpose. Electrolytic Coloring (The two-step method) imparts color to the coating after it is formed Sealing the pores on the surface of the finished pieces need to be closed before the anodized item is placed into service.

4)

Rule of thumb is that the hardcoated anodized surface has about the same hardness as

nitrided steel (about 50 + Rockwell "C").

5)

It depends on size, shape, surface area, color, quantity, minimum order or minimum

quantity ordered. Rule of thumb goes to $0.05 per square inch. So for example, a part with 5 square inch surface area would cost $0.25 per part with a minimum order value or minimum order quantity or some combination of both. Normally clear anodize cost less than colored one.