Aluminum 6061
Common material for this finish.
View materialSurface Finishing
Type II and Type III (Hardcoat) Anodizing
Anodizing is an electrochemical process that grows a controlled aluminum oxide layer from the base metal of aluminum (and, with different chemistry, titanium) parts. The porous oxide can be dyed and is then sealed, improving corrosion and wear resistance.
Specification
Typical options
| Option | Typical thickness | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| Type II (sulfuric) | ~5–25 µm (0.0002–0.001 in) | Corrosion protection, dyed colors, cosmetic parts |
| Type III hardcoat | ~25–75 µm (0.001–0.003 in); ~50 µm common | Wear surfaces, sliding parts, abrasion resistance |
| Clear vs. dyed | Class 1 (undyed) or Class 2 (dyed) | Black is the most consistent dyed color |
| Common spec | MIL-PRF-8625 Type II / III | Call out on the drawing when required |
Typical industry ranges for reference. Final thickness, color, and specification are confirmed on your quote and drawing.
Design Tips
What to specify on your drawing
Dimensional change
Roughly half of the coating grows outward and half penetrates the surface. Allow for buildup on tight fits and threads, or mask them.
Alloy matters
6061 anodizes evenly; 7075 is good; high-silicon cast alloys look darker and blotchier. Color can vary between alloys and batches.
Masking
Specify bores, threads, grounding points, and mating faces that must remain bare.
Color matching
Dyed anodize cannot be matched precisely to Pantone or RAL values; request color approval samples for cosmetic programs.
Compatible Materials
Materials often paired with this finish
Aluminum 7075
Common material for this finish.
View materialTitanium Ti-6Al-4V
Common material for this finish.
View materialSurface Finishing Service
See all finishing and post-processing options.
View serviceAdd a Finish
Include finish requirements with your RFQ.
Note the finish, specification, color, thickness, and masked areas on your drawing so the quote reflects them.