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The go-to video source for information regarding aluminum products, material characteristics and aluminum processing. |
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Aluminum Machining Solutions: Uniform Anodized Surface
Anodizing is a process that is used by many of our customers and involves changing the surface oxide of the aluminum. This process is carried out for a number of reasons such as improving the wear performance of the surface, improving the corrosion resistance of the surface but in many cases just making the surface look more attractive. This anodized surface may appear a ‘normal’ aluminum color, but in many cases a final color is created by the process to make it more attractive in the final application. A uniform Anodized surface is what Kaiser calls an “enhanced characteristic”. It is expected by the customer that they will be able to anodize the final part they make, but they are often not satisfied with the results. Parts can have a ‘blotchy’ appearance or variation in the desired color. The KaiserSelect™ products are designed to ensure the final product surface finish will meet the customer expectations for every final part. The anodizing process is usually completed as the last stage of the manufacturing process, with the full cost of making the part invested by the manufacturer. If the parts are rejected at this late point in the manufacturing process there is significant cost involved as well as missed delivery dates to downstream customers. We had complaints that there was too much material being wasted. KaiserSelect™ products have been designed to provide a very consistent grain structure through the cross section of the starting semi-fabricated product. This leads to the final part anodized finish also being consistent. This consistency of grain size is controlled in the manufacturing process for Rod and Bar products, as well as our plate products where thicknesses can be as much as 10ins [250mm] for 6061 alloy used in the semi-conductor industry. There are some customers in the Rod market who require a very controlled grain structure to meet their final finishing needs. KaiserSelect Ultra Precision Rod™ has been developed to meet these needs and again prevent the rejection of parts at the final process of anodizing.
