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    AAC Technical Bulletin2-13 Rev07

    Uploaded by

    kaka**
    .

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    © All Rights Reserved
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    of 12

    TECHNICAL BULLETIN

    TECHNICAL BULLETIN #2-13


    “Specifying Anodized Aluminum”

    This Technical Bulletin is published by the Aluminum Anodizers Council as an educational and
    TECHNICAL BULLETIN
    informational service. The information contained in this Technical Bulletin has been obtained from
    sources believed to be reliable. It should be noted that relevant practices, regulations and technologies
    are subject to change and this Technical Bulletin is current only as of the publication date. Further, it
    should not be assumed that all processes, standards or requirements affecting metal finishing are
    included. AAC makes no warranty, guarantee or representation whatsoever as to the absolute validity or
    sufficiency of the information or any reference set forth in this Technical Bulletin. AAC does not “approve”
    or “endorse” any products, services or methods. AAC assumes no responsibility for use or misuse of this
    Technical Bulletin.

    "MVNJOVN"OPEJ[FST$PVODJMt/3BOE3PBE t8BVDPOEB *MMJOPJT64"


    5FMt'BYtNBJM!BOPEJ[JOHPSHtXXXBOPEJ[JOHPSH
    ª"MVNJOVN"OPEJ[FST$PVODJM
    No portion of this Technical Bulletin may be reproduced without the express written permission of the Aluminum Anodizers Council.

    3FWJTFE+uly 6, 2018
    Specifying Anodized Finishes On Aluminum
    Introduction General Discussion
    Anodized aluminum is used in diverse applications in many Aluminum alloys are available as wrought products and as
    different industries. Its wide range of use has resulted in a castings. There are a number of factors to consider when
    DPSSFTQPOEJOHMZ XJEF WBSJFUZ PG BOPEJD PYJEF EFTJHOBUJPOT specifying anodic finishes. Different finishing processes may
    5IF "MVNJOVN "TTPDJBUJPO ""
     JO JUT 1VCMJDBUJPO   be specified depending on the use or application of the final
    “DesignatioO 4ZTUFN GPS "MVNJOVN 'JOJTIFT w IBT QSPWJEFE QSPEVDU4PNFPGUIFGBDUPSTUPCFDPOTJEFSFEBSF
    assistance to industry designers and specifiers to designate
    the correct finish of their choice for the many applications of t"QQFBSBODF#SJHIU NBUUF DPMPSFE CSVTIFE PUIFS
    anodized aluminum. This designation system is particularly t&OWJSPONFOUPGVTF
    helpful to those who are somewhat familiar with anodized
    finishes and who have some idea of the finish they require. - Interior (architectural, commercial, decorative,
    other use)
    Many people desiring anodized finishes on aluminum may &YUFSJPS BSDIJUFDUVSBM NBSJOF

    not be knowledgeable about the types of anodic finishes


    available and how to specifically call out their requirements to - Industrial/Automotive(corrosive or noncorrosive
    anodizers. This Technical Bulletin of the Aluminum Anodizers application; resistance to wear or abrasion, other)
    Council is intended to help those who are not familiar with the - Aerospace (corrosion resistance, dielectric,
    many aspects of anodized finishes. For those who already are emissivity, fatigue strength, other)
    familiar with anodic finishes and their various applications,
    this Bulletin may serve as a quick reference guide to specifying The factors outlined above determine the type of finish to be
    anodized aluminum. TQFDJöFE8IFOTQFDJGZJOHBOPEJ[FEBMVNJOVNQSPEVDUT UIF
    following specific criteria should be addressed:
    In addition to the AA designation system, three other t"MMPZBOEUFNQFSPGBMVNJOVNUPCFVTFE
    designation or specification systems are in common use.
    These are the Alumilite Finishes nomenclature originated t.FDIBOJDBMöOJTI JGBOZ SFRVJSFE
    CZ "MDPB  NJMJUBSZ TQFDJöDBUJPO .*-" NPTU DVSSFOUi'w t$IFNJDBMöOJTIJOQSFQBSBUJPOGPSBOPEJ[JOH
    WFSTJPOBTPG"QSJM
    BOE""$"VUPNPUJWF4UBOEBSE
    t"OPEJDPYJEFUZQFSFRVJSFE
    3FGFSFODFXJMMCFNBEFJOUIJT#VMMFUJOUPBMMPGUIFTFiTZTUFNTw
    to give the reader some familiarity with them. The American
    Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA) has adopted
    Alloy and Temper
    UIF "" EFTJHOBUJPO TZTUFN JO JUT i7PMVOUBSZ 4UBOEBSET GPS Wrought Alloys. The alloy and temper of the product to be
    Anodized Architectural Aluminum.” anodized will affect both the strength and the appearance
    of the part after it is anodized. Various combinations of
    The Aluminum Association categorizes its designation system
    constituent elements cause each aluminum alloy to react
    by “M” for mechanical finishes, “C” for chemical processes, and
    differently to the process of anodizing; this is particularly
    “A” for anodic finishes.
    evident between alloy series. As a result, each alloy or alloy
    The system originated by Alcoa divides its nomenclature into series yields a different appearance, even if treated to identical
    three parts: BOPEJ[JOH QSPDFTTFT  "MTP  FBDI BMMPZ FYIJCJUT JUT VOJRVF
    characteristics such as good formability, ease of machining,
    t4VSGBDFQSFQBSBUJPO NFDIBOJDBMBOEDIFNJDBM
    TUSFOHUI  SFTQPOTF UP BOPEJ[JOH  FUD  &YBNQMFT PG TPNF PG
    t"OPEJDDPBUJOHTGPSXSPVHIUQSPEVDUT these general characteristics follow:
    t"OPEJDDPBUJOHTGPSDBTUQSPEVDUT t5IFYYY4FSJFTBMMPZTBSFIJHIJODPQQFS IBWFSFMBUJWFMZ
    high strength, are hard, and have good machinability.
    5IF i.JM 4QFDw .*-"
     DMBTTJöFT öOJTIFT CZ Types and As copper content increases, anodizing generally
    Classes. becomes more difficult. Anodizing conditions should
    CFDMPTFMZDPOUSPMMFE5IFBOPEJDPYJEFPOYYYBMMPZT
    5IF ""$ "VUPNPUJWF 4UBOEBSE EFTJHOBUFT UIF öOJTI
    is usually softer and has lower corrosion resistance than
    types by a letter.
    POBMMPZTXJUIMPXFSDPQQFSDPOUFOU4QFDJBMBOPEJ[JOH
    Details of these designation systems used for the specification techniques may be used to obtain acceptable coatings.
    of anodizing aluminum are listed in the Appendices of this t5IFYYY4FSJFTIBWFSFMBUJWFMZIJHIMFWFMTPGNBOHBOFTF
    Bulletin. In addition to these commonly used designation These alloys are work-hardened (non-heat-treatable)
    systems, many proprietary specifications are written for BOEFYIJCJUFYDFMMFOUGPSNBCJMJUZDIBSBDUFSJTUJDT5IFZ
    industry-specific or individual company applications. anodize clear silver, grayish, or brownish depending on
    the production conditions.

    1 Aluminum Anodizers Council Technical Bulletin #1-01 (Rev. July 6, 2018)


    t5IFYYY4FSJFTBMMPZTBSFIJHIJOTJMJDPOBOEHFOFSBMMZ Mechanical Finish
    are not anodized.
    Mechanical finishing, if specified, is done before chemical
    t5IFYYY4FSJFTBMMPZTBSFIJHIQVSJUZBMVNJOVN
    öOJTIJOHPSBOPEJ[JOH.FDIBOJDBMöOJTIFTHJWFTVSGBDFUFYUVSF
    with magnesium added. Alloys of this series are
    or remove surface defects and irregularities. Appearance can
    work-hardened (non-heat-treatable) and have good
    be varied but usually gives a uniform, matte finish, directional
    GPSNBCJMJUZ"MMPZT  BOEBSFMPXJO
    or nondirectional sanded finish, or a specular (mirror-like)
    iron and have good luster for chemically brightened
    finish. The mechanical finish shows through the anodic
    finishes. These alloys are used largely in automotive and
    PYJEFT CFDBVTF VODPMPSFE BOPEJD PYJEFT BSF USBOTQBSFOU
    BQQMJBODFUSJNBQQMJDBUJPOT"MMPZ XIJMFIJHIFS
    PS USBOTMVDFOU BOE BOPEJD PYJEFT DPOGPSN UP UIF TVSGBDF
    in iron, chrome, and magnesium, is a high-strength
    UFYUVSF 5IJT NFBOT UIBU TVSGBDF EFGFDUT  BT XFMM BT BQQMJFE
    alloy and is used in structural applications such as truck
    TVSGBDFUFYUVSFT BSFOPUDPWFSFEVQCZBOPEJ[JOH&YBNQMFT
    QBOFMT"MMPZJTIJHIFSJOJSPOBOETJMJDPOUIBO
    of mechanical finishes are buffing, polishing, sanding, sand
    It is a good general-purpose architectural sheet and plate
    CMBTUJOH BOETIPUQFFOJOH3FGFSUPUIFBQQFOEJYGPSTQFDJöD
    BMMPZ"MMPZBOPEJ[FTZFMMPXJTIJOUIJDLFSDPBUJOHT 
    designations of mechanical finishes.
    XIJMFBOPEJ[FTDMFBSTJMWFS HSBZ PSCSPXOJTI
    t5IFYYY4FSJFTPòFSHPPE HFOFSBMQVSQPTF IFBU Chemical Finish
    USFBUBCMFBMMPZT"MMPZTPGUIJTTFSJFTIBWFFYDFMMFOU
    SFTQPOTFUPBOPEJ[JOH'PSFYBNQMF BOE Chemical treatment of the part significantly affects its
    BSFQPQVMBSFYUSVTJPOBMMPZTIBWJOHHPPETUSFOHUIBOE matteness or brightness (specularity). Chemical treatment
    FYDFMMFOUBOPEJ[JOHDIBSBDUFSJTUJDT1SJODJQBMBMMPZJOH is done prior to anodizing and is a very important factor in
    FMFNFOUTBSFNBHOFTJVNBOETJMJDPOJTMPXJOJSPO the final appearance of the anodized part. The pre-anodize
    and is used for bright finishes. Both have good luster and chemical treatment of aluminum is often called the cleaning,
    BOPEJ[FDMFBSTJMWFS"MMPZJTIJHIFSJOTJMJDPO JSPO  clean-up or pretreatment phase of the process.
    DPQQFS NBHOFTJVN BOEDISPNFUIBO*UJTBIJHI
    TUSFOHUITUSVDUVSBMBMMPZIBWJOHFYDFMMFOUNBDIJOBCJMJUZ B Cleanliness of the part is critical to quality in anodizing.
    favorite of machine shops, especially if the parts are to be A typical chemical treatment process might be as follows:
    hard anodized. t5SFBUNFOUJOBOJOIJCJUFEBDJEPSBMLBMJOFDMFBOFS
    t5IFYYY4FSJFTBMMPZTBSFIJHIJO[JOD5IFZBSF to remove dirt and oils
    considered ultra-high-strength alloys and find wide use t%FPYJEJ[FJOTUSPOHBDJEJDTPMVUJPOUPSFNPWF  
    in the aircraft and aerospace industries. They anodize OBUVSBMPYJEFTPSIFBUUSFBUTDBMF
    gray, blue-gray, and brown-black (mottled), depending
    t$IFNJDBMFUDIPSCSJHIUFOJOH
    on the alloy and the anodizing process.
    Etching is frequently accomplished in a weak solution of
    Casting Alloys.4FWFSBMBMVNJOVNDBTUJOHBMMPZTBMTPDBOCF DBVTUJD TPEB TPEJVN IZESPYJEF
     &UDIJOH SFNPWFT NFUBM
    BOPEJ[FE6OGPSUVOBUFMZ UIFDIBSBDUFSJTUJDTUIBUNBLFHPPE uniformly and roughens the surface of the metal to give
    castings are not necessarily the best for anodizing. Alloys a uniform, matte finish. Acid etching also may be done.
    with the best casting characteristics are those containing up Treatment in solutions such as ammonium bifluoride or
    UPQFSDFOUTJMJDPO)JHITJMJDPOBMMPZTEPOPUBOPEJ[FXFMM trisodium phosphate produces a white, matte (satin) finish
    because silicon is not readily soluble in aluminum. Only the without as much metal removal as alkaline etching. Different
    aluminum on the surface of the part anodizes, leaving areas anodizers customize the cleaning and etching process to meet
    with higher silicon unanodized and the entire part with a black UIF OFFET PG UIF QSPEVDUT UIFZ QSPDFTT  4PNF FYBNQMFT PG
    or gray silicon powder. chemical finishes:
    Aluminum casting alloys containing relatively low amounts of 'JOFNBUUFFUDI ""
    $"MDPB3
    silicon and iron and higher amounts of magnesium, chrome, .FEJVNNBUUFFUDI ""
    $"MDPB3
    and zinc tend to anodize well. Aluminum-magnesium alloys
    TVDIBTBOEBOPEJ[FXFMM"MVNJOVN[JODBMMPZTMJLF /PUF.*-"EPFTOPUTQFDJGZQSFUSFBUNFOUQSPDFTTFTCZ
      BOEBMTPSFTQPOEXFMMUPBOPEJ[JOH4PNFIJHIFS number or type designation.
    TJMJDPO DBTUJOH BMMPZT  TVDI BT   DBO CF BOPEJ[FE VTJOH
    special techniques and processes. It is best to check with an There are other etching processes that may be used; each
    BOPEJ[JOHFYQFSUCFGPSFTQFDJGZJOHDBTUJOHBMMPZTGPSQSPKFDUT has a designation that may be called out by using the AA or
    that call for anodized finishes. 4ZTUFNTPSJHJOBUFECZ"MDPB

    Brightening is the micro-leveling (micro-smoothing) of the


    aluminum surface by either chemical or electrochemical
    NFBOT  )JHI MVTUFS JT DSFBUFE CFDBVTF UIF QSPDFTT SFNPWFT
    the micro-peaks but does not affect the micro-valleys. The

    Specifying Anodized Aluminum 2


    surface is smoothed or leveled, which renders high luster to The most commonly used anodizing process is sulfuric acid
    the surface. Both of these methods of achieving a specular anodizing. It produces a colorless, transparent anodic coating
    öOJTINBZCFTQFDJöFECZUIF""EFTJHOBUJPO$5IF"MDPB on most aluminum alloys. It may be specified in different
    EFTJHOBUJPOGPSUIJTöOJTIJT35IFSFBSFBOVNCFSPGPUIFS coating thicknesses to satisfy different functions.
    chemical bright dip solutions and electrobrightening baths,
    which may be specified by designation or by trade name. Protective and Decorative (< 0.4 mil thick). These coatings
    are used where somewhat limited protection from corrosion
    Different mechanical finishes may be combined with satin or and abrasion is suitable. They are also used in bright finish
    bright chemical finishes to produce a variety of appearances. applications, giving protection, but allowing the brightness
    'PS FYBNQMF  UIF "" EFTJHOBUJPO  .$ JOEJDBUFT B to show through. These coatings are not recommended for
    iTNPPUI TQFDVMBS CVòFEw .
     NFDIBOJDBM öOJTI GPMMPXFE architectural use, but are very satisfactory where appearance
    CZBöOFNBUUF $
    DIFNJDBMöOJTI5IFTQFDJöFS XPSLJOH is more important than durability.
    JODPOKVODUJPOXJUIUIFöOJTIFS NBZTFMFDUUIFFYBDUUZQFPG
    “fine matte chemical finish” to achieve the desired look. This is &YBNQMFTPGQSPEVDUTVTJOHUIJTUZQFPGBOPEJ[FEöOJTIBSF
    best accomplished by producing sample coupons of different -JHIUJOHSFøFDUPST   UPNJM
    versions of the finish and choosing the one that comes closest
    $MFBSBOPEJ[FEBVUPNPUJWFUSJN NJM
    to the desired appearance. The nomenclature originated by
    "MDPBGPSUIFBCPWFöOJTIXPVMECF"3PS"3 iQPMJTIFE -JUIPHSBQIJDQMBUFT   NJM
    and buffed with light etch” or “polished and buffed with "QQMJBODFUSJN   UPNJM
    TBUJO FUDIw  4FF UIF "QQFOEJY GPS B EFUBJMFE MJTU PG öOJTIFT 
    designations, and nomenclature. The following designation / nomenclature / specification
    systems apply to this group of coatings.
    Anodic Finish t"MVNJOVN"TTPDJBUJPO ""
    "4FSJFTPGEFTJHOBUJPOT 
    The anodic finish is the result of the carefully controlled which include:
    FMFDUSPDIFNJDBMPYJEBUJPOPGUIFBMVNJOVNTVSGBDF5IFSFBSF "  $MFBSBOPEJ[F
    OVNFSPVTUZQFTPGBOPEJDöOJTIFT&BDIöOJTIJTTQFDJöFEUP "  *OUFHSBMDPMPS
    obtain certain appearance and/or performance characteristics
    EFTJSFEBDDPSEJOHUPUIFFOEVTFPGUIFQSPEVDU4PNFPGUIF "  *NQSFHOBUFEDPMPS EZFE

    characteristics of anodized finishes are: "  &MFDUSPMZUJDBMMZEFQPTJUFEDPMPS


    tEFDPSBUJWF   t/PNFODMBUVSFPSJHJOBUFECZ"MDPB
    tSFøFDUJWF   "MVNJMJUF NJMDPBUJOHUIJDLOFTT
    tDPSSPTJPOSFTJTUBOU  "MVNJMJUF UPNJM
    tBCTPSQUJPOFNJTTJWJUZPGIFBU "MVNJMJUF UPNJM
    tBCSBTJPOSFTJTUBOU "MVNJMJUF NJM OPUDPNNPOMZVTFE

    tEJFMFDUSJD t.*-"
    tDPMPS Type II Coating thickness called out in purchase
    document or drawings.
    Coating thickness is an important attribute of every type
    of anodized finish. It may be specified as either coating t""$
    thickness or coating weight, or both. Common units of 4FF5BCMFJOBQQFOEJY
    measurement are:
    /PUF  5IF iNJM TQFDw JT HFOFSBMMZ VTFE POMZ GPS NJMJUBSZ PS
    tJODIFT
    aerospace finishing, but can be used to designate other finish
    tNJMT applications if desired.
    tNJDSPOT
    Architectural Class II (0.4 to 0.7 mil coating). Anodic coatings
    XIFSF  NJM FRVBMT  POF NJM  POF POFUIPVTBOEUI of this thickness range have greater resistance to corrosion
    PG BO JODI
       NJDSPOT FRVBMT  NJM  PS  NJDSPO FRVBMT and abrasion than Protective and Decorative coatings. These
    JODIFT coatings are recommended for interior architectural use and
    they may be used outside with regular maintenance of the
    Coating weight, or mass per unit area, may be stated as finish. This thicker class of coatings will give the aluminum a
    mg/cm (milligrams per square centimeter), mg/dm more matte appearance than the thinner coatings. Greater
    (milligrams per square decimeter) or mg/ft (milligrams coating thickness makes it possible to produce darker colors
    per square foot). There are both processing and testing when coloring the product.
    specifications that call out coating weight in these terms.

    3 Aluminum Anodizers Council Technical Bulletin #1-01 (Rev. July 6, 2018)


    &YBNQMFTPGBOPEJ[FEQSPEVDUTUIBUIBWFBDPBUJOHUIJDLOFTT "MVNJMJUF NJMBOEHSFBUFSJOUIJDLOFTT
    in this range are: t.*-"
     *OUFSJPSBSDIJUFDUVSBMQBOFMT UPNJM Type II Coating thickness called out on purchase
     #MBDLBVUPNPUJWFUSJN  NJM documents or drawings.
     #MFBDIFSTFBUJOH   UPNJM t""$

    Architectural Class II finishes are designated as follows: 4FF5BCMFJOBQQFOEJY

    t"MVNJOVN"TTPDJBUJPO ""
    "4FSJFTPGEFTJHOBUJPOT  Class I and II finishes have wide use in both clear and colored
    which include: finishes.
    " $MFBS$PBUJOH Clear Anodize. These transparent coatings show off the
    " *OUFHSBMDPMPS silver-gray metallic properties of the aluminum. They are most
    " *NQSFHOBUFEDPMPS often anodized in sulfuric acid and the anodic coating is sealed
    to enhance the protective qualities of the coating.
    " &MFDUSPMZUJDBMMZEFQPTJUFEDPMPS
    t/PNFODMBUVSFPSJHJOBUFECZ"MDPB Integral Coloring.  5IFTF öOJTIFT BSF QSPEVDFE JO B NJYFE
    electrolyte of various organic or inorganic acids and sulfuric
    "MVNJMJUF NJMDPBUJOHUIJDLOFTT acid. The resulting colors range from a champagne color to
    "MVNJMJUF NJM OPUDPNNPOMZVTFE
    dark bronze, gray, and black. Integral coloring, although an
    FYDFMMFOUöOJTI IBTTFFOEFDSFBTJOHVTBHFBTBOBSDIJUFDUVSBM
    t.*-"
    and commercial finish over the past several years, primarily
    Type II Coating thickness called out in purchase due to the relatively higher cost of producing integral color
    document or drawings. öOJTIFT5IBOLTUPUIFJSFYUSFNFMZIBSEDPBUJOH JOUFHSBMDPMPS
    t""$ electrolytes may be used in hardcoat anodizing processes.
    &MFDUSPMZUJD DPMPSJOH NFUIPET  HFOFSBMMZ MFTT FYQFOTJWF UP
    4FF5BCMFJOBQQFOEJY produce, have largely replaced integral color processes in the
    Architectural Class I (0.7 mil and thicker anodic coatings). marketplace today.
    Anodized coatings produced in this class are thicker than Class Impregnated Coloring. Products with these finishes are first
    II coatings and Protective and Decorative coatings. clear anodized and then immersed in organic or inorganic
    $MBTT * DPBUJOHT BSF VTFE QSJNBSJMZ GPS FYUFSJPS CVJMEJOH EZFT5IFEZFJTBCTPSCFECZUIFQPSPVTBOPEJDPYJEF"OPEJD
    products and other products that must withstand continuous PYJEF UIJDLOFTT BOE UIF BNPVOU PG EZF BCTPSCFE JOUP UIF
    PVUEPPSFYQPTVSF5IJTDPBUJOHUIJDLOFTTSBOHFJTOPUTVJUBCMF coating are largely responsible for the degree of lightfastness
    for highly specular (bright) finishes. Most applications are PGUIFDPMPST4PNFEZFTBSFOPUMJHIUGBTUJOBOZDBTF$PNNPO
    matte finished. colors made with organic dyes are red, blue, green, brown, and
    black. Although virtually any color is available, most organic
    Class I anodic coatings are thick enough to receive lightfast dyes are not fade-resistant. Inorganic colors are somewhat
    (fade-resistant) coloring processes. Common coloring limited in range, golds and bronzes being the most commonly
    methods include adsorptive organic and inorganic dying and used.
    electrolytically deposited coloring.
    Electrolytically Deposited Coloring. Products using this
    &YBNQMFTPGQSPEVDUTTQFDJöFEXJUI$MBTT*öOJTIFTBSF type of finish are first clear anodized and then color is added
    by a second step in a bath of metallic salts. The most common
    &YUFSJPSBSDIJUFDUVSBMQSPEVDUTTVDIBTDVSUBJOXBMM 
    metals used for coloring are tin, cobalt, and nickel. The metal
    XJOEPX BOEEPPSGSBNFTUPNJM
    is electrolytically deposited into the bottom of the pores of the
    .BSJOFQSPEVDUTUPNJM BMVNJOVNPYJEF BOPEJD
    DPBUJOH5IFDPMPSPCUBJOFEEFQFOET
    on the metal being deposited and the amount of deposit in
    Architectural Class I finishes are designated as follows: the anodic pore. These colors range from light bronze to dark
    t"MVNJOVN"TTPDJBUJPO ""
    "4FSJFTPGEFTJHOBUJPOT  bronze and black. Other metals, such as copper, give a reddish
    which include: color but are not as colorfast as colors produced from tin,
    " $MFBSBOPEJ[F cobalt, and nickel.

    " *OUFHSBMDPMPS Other Coloring Processes. There are other processes used
    " *NQSFHOBUFEDPMPS EZFE
    to color anodized aluminum. The most notable of these
    processes is called Interference Coloring. As this process
    " &MFDUSPMZUJDBMMZEFQPTJUFEDPMPS gains in popularity it is becoming more readily available.
    t/PNFODMBUVSFPSJHJOBUFECZ"MDPB In this process the base of the anodic pore is modified by

    Specifying Anodized Aluminum 4


    electrochemical processing after clear anodizing. Then Hardcoat Anodizing can be carried out under a multitude
    electrolytic coloring in a standard metallic salt bath deposits a of different processing conditions including electrolytes,
    very thin layer of metal at the base of the modified pores. This temperatures, current densities, and times. The single
    thin layer of deposited metal is capable of giving visible color objective, however, is to create a coating that is thicker than
    interference. Colors produced are shades of blue-gray, green, PUIFSDPBUJOHT NJMUPNJMPSHSFBUFS
    IBTHPPEDPSSPTJPO
    yellow, and red. SFTJTUBODF  BOE FYDFMMFOU BCSBTJPO SFTJTUBODF  )BSEDPBU
    BOPEJ[FE DPBUJOHT HFOFSBMMZ IBWF B 3PDLXFMM $ IBSEOFTT
    Special Anodic Coatings. This group of widely used industrial SBOHJOH GSPN  UP   5IFTF DPBUJOHT IBWF PVUTUBOEJOH
    anodize finishes is classed “General” in the AA designation abrasion resistance in rubbing or sliding applications. They
    TZTUFN  4PNF PG UIF NPTU DPNNPOMZ VTFE DBUFHPSJFT PG are said to be “file hard” but are not resistant to point pressure,
    finishes in this diverse group are specifically called out in the as the softer aluminum substrate will give way, causing the
    following manner: IBSE BOPEJD DPBUJOH UP DPMMBQTF  )BSE BOPEJ[FE öOJTIFT BSF
    t"MVNJOVN"TTPDJBUJPO ""
     "4FSJFTPGEFTJHOBUJPOT  often left unsealed, as sealing can be detrimental to coating
    which include: IBSEOFTT  )BSEDPBU BOPEJ[JOH JT VTFE PO BQQMJDBUJPOT UIBU
    include aircraft, machined parts, cookware, and many others.
    " 1SFQBSBUJPOGPSPUIFSBQQMJFEDPBUJOHT
    " $ISPNJDBDJEBOPEJDDPBUJOHT Appendices begin on the following page.
    " )BSE XFBSBOEBCSBTJPOSFTJTUBOUDPBUJOHT "QQFOEJY "
     MVNJOVN"TTPDJBUJPO%FTJHOBUJPO4ZTUFN
    GPS"MVNJOVN'JOJTIFT 'SPN1VCMJDBUJPO

    t/PNFODMBUVSFPSJHJOBUFECZ"MDPB
    "QQFOEJY "MDPB/PNFODMBUVSF4ZTUFN
    "MVNJMJUF4FSJFT $ISPNJD"DJEBOPEJ[FE
    "QQFOEJY .JMJUBSZ4QFDJöDBUJPO.*-"
    "MVNJMJUF   BSEBOPEJ[FE 
    )
    NJM SFTQFDUJWFMZ  "QQFOEJY "VUPNPUJWF4UBOEBSE""$
    TVMGVSJDPYBMJDNJYFEBDJE
    electrolyte)
    t.*-"
    Type I Chromic acid anodized
    Type IB Chromic acid anodized (low voltage
    method)
    5ZQF*$ /
     PODISPNJDBDJEBOPEJ[FE FH CPSJD
    sulfuric)
    5ZQF*** )BSEBOPEJ[FE

    Preparation for Other Applied Coatings. These anodic


    finishes are produced so that other coatings may be applied
    PWFSUIFBOPEJ[FEDPBUJOH7FSZUIJODPBUJOHT NJMUP
    mil) that are produced by the standard sulfuric acid method
    are sometimes used as a base for organic (painted) finishes.

    Phosphoric Acid Anodizing and processes employing a


    NJYUVSFPGQIPTQIPSJDBOEPUIFSBDJETIBWFHBJOFEXJEFTQSFBE
    use as a base for other types of coatings. Typical uses of these
    very thin coatings include lithographic plates prepared for
    photo-sensitive emulsions, preparation for adhesive bonding
    applications in the aircraft and aerospace industries, and as a
    pretreatment for certain types of electroplating on aluminum.

    Chromic Acid Anodizing produces very thin films that are


    more opaque than sulfuric acid anodized coatings. Coating
    UIJDLOFTT NBZ SBOHF GSPN  NJMT UP  NJMT  EFQFOEJOH
    on the alloy and the processing conditions. Chromic acid
    anodic coatings are usually gray in color and have an attractive
    enamel-like appearance. These coatings are very resistant to
    corrosion, resulting in wide use on military hardware and other
    QSPEVDUTSFRVJSJOHFYDFMMFOUDPSSPTJPOQSPUFDUJPO

    5 Aluminum Anodizers Council Technical Bulletin #1-01 (Rev. July 6, 2018)


    APPENDIX 1 Buffed
    ALUMINUM ASSOCIATION DESIGNATION SYSTEM .6OTQFDJöFE
    For ALUMINUM FINISHES .4NPPUITQFDVMBS
    .4QFDVMBS
    5IF"MVNJOVN"TTPDJBUJPO%FTJHOBUJPO4ZTUFNEJWJEFT .90UIFS UPCFTQFDJöFE

    finishes for aluminum into three major categories:


     .FDIBOJDBM'JOJTIFT .
    Directional Textured
     $IFNJDBM'JOJTIFT $
    .6OTQFDJöFE
     $PBUJOHT .'JOFTBUJO
    ..FEJVNTBUJO
    The Coatings category is subdivided into: .$PBSTFTBUJO
    Anodic Coatings (A) .)BOESVCCFE
    3FTJOPVTBOE0UIFS0SHBOJD$PBUJOHT 3
    .#SVTIFE
    Vitreous Coatings (V) .90UIFS UPCFTQFDJöFE

    &MFDUSPQMBUFEBOE0UIFS.FUBMMJD$PBUJOHT &

    Laminated Coatings (L). Nondirectional Textured


    .6OTQFDJöFE
    &BDI DBUFHPSZ BOE TVCDBUFHPSZ JT EFTJHOBUFE CZ B MFUUFS .&YUSBöOFNBUUF
    Only designations pertaining to pretreatment and anodizing .'JOFNBUUF
    are detailed in this reference. The various types of anodized ..FEJVNNBUUF
    finishes are designated by the letter “A” followed by a two- .$PBSTFNBUUF
    digit number to call out the specific anodic finish. Finishes .'JOFTIPUCMBTU
    designations may be used singly or in conjunction with other ..FEJVNTIPUCMBTU
    EFTJHOBUJPOT UP TQFDJGZ B DPNQMFUF öOJTIJOH TZTUFN  8IFO .$PBSTFTIPUCMBTU
    designations for the anodic coating are used alone, the .90UIFS UPCFTQFDJöFE

    pretreatment is usually left up to the processor to determine


    best fit for the product and its end use. CHEMICAL FINISHES (C)
    Nonetched Cleaned
    &YBNQMFPGBUZQJDBMöOJTIJOHEFTJHOBUJPOGPSBOJOUFSJPS $6OTQFDJöFE
    architectural panel might be: $%FHSFBTFE
    "".$" $*OIJCJUFEDIFNJDBMDMFBOFE
    AA Aluminum Association Designation $90UIFS UPCFTQFDJöFE

    . 'JOFNBUUF OPOEJSFDUJPOBMUFYUVSFENFDIBOJDBM


    finish Etched
    $ 'JOFNBUUFDIFNJDBMFUDI $6OTQFDJöFE
    " "SDIJUFDUVSBM$MBTT**BOPEJ[F FMFDUSPMZUJDBMMZDPMPSFE $'JOFNBUUF
    $.FEJVNNBUUF
    /PUF5IFöOJTIFSBOEDVTUPNFSXJMMEFUFSNJOF CZTBNQMJOH $$PBSTFNBUUF
    PS EJTDVTTJPO  FYBDUMZ XIBU QSPDFTT DPOTUJUVUFT UIF . BOE $90UIFS UPCFTQFDJöFE

    $öOJTIFT
    Brightened
    &YBNQMFPGBUZQJDBMöOJTIJOHEFTJHOBUJPOGPSBVUPNPUJWFUSJN $6OTQFDJöFE
    could be: $)JHIMZTQFDVMBS
    "".$$" $%JòVTFCSJHIU
    AA - Aluminum Association $90UIFS UPCFTQFDJöFE

    ."TGBCSJDBUFETQFDVMBS
    $%FHSFBTFE OPOFUDIFEDMFBOFE Chemical Conversion Coatings
    $)JHIMZTQFDVMBSDIFNJDBMCSJHIUFOJOH
    /PUF5IFTFQSPDFTTFTBSFOPUGPMMPXFECZBOPEJ[JOH

    "1SPUFDUJWFBOEEFDPSBUJWFDMFBSBOPEJDDPBUJOH
    MFTTUIFONJMUIJDL $6OTQFDJöFE
    $"DJEDISPNBUFøVPSJEF
    MECHANICAL FINISHES (M) $"DJEDISPNBUFøVPSJEFQIPTQIBUF
    The mechanical finishes are broken down into four groups: $"MLBMJOFDISPNBUF
    $90UIFS UPCFTQFDJöFE

    As Fabricated
    .6OTQFDJöFE
    .4QFDVMBSBTGBCSJDBUFE
    ./POTQFDVMBSBTGBCSJDBUFE
    .90UIFS UPCFTQFDJöFE

    Specifying Anodized Aluminum 6


    ANODIC COATINGS (A) APPENDIX 2
    General
    ALCOA NOMENCLATURE SYSTEM

    include all anodic finishes in the system. Only the designations


    for the most commonly used Alumilite (clear anodized) finishes
    are included. The nomenclature for Mechanical Finishes and
    Protective and Decorative (Coatings less than 0.4 mil Chemical Finishes are complete as listed. Only the designators
    thick) for hardcoat finishes are included for cast products. The Alcoa
    integral color (Duranodic) system is not shown because this
    system is no longer in widespread use.
    Color dependent on alloy and processing conditions.

    specified. architectural clear anodized building mullion is:

    specified.

    Architectural Class II (0.4 to 0.7 mil coating)

    This is generally left up to the finisher.

    Mechanical and Chemical Pretreatments

    Mechanical Finishes
    Architectural Class I (0.7 mil and thicker anodic coatings)

    B Polish finish (round tube only)

    M Burnished finish

    today. It is presented here for completeness and “historical”


    value.

    Chemical Finishes

    7 Aluminum Anodizers Council Technical Bulletin #1-01 (Rev. July 6, 2018)


    Anodic Finishes /PUF 5IF "MDPB TZTUFN EFTJHOBUFT APPENDIX 3
    processing conditions but does not designate coating
    UIJDLOFTT 5IF QSPDFTTJOH DPOEJUJPOT BSF QFSDFOU TVMGVSJD MILITARY SPECIFICATION
    BDJE FMFDUSPMZUF   BNQT QFS TRVBSF GPPU  ¡' UP ¡'  MIL-A-8625
    TFBMFE JO IPU XBUFS ! ¡' UP ¡' GPS  NJOVUFT VOMFTT
    PUIFSXJTF TUBUFE  3FDPNNFOEFE BOPEJ[JOH UJNFT VOEFS "/0%*$$0"5*/(4'03"-6.*/6."/%"-6.*/6."--0:4
    these processing conditions, as well as nominal coating
    This specification is the model for much of the anodizing
    thicknesses, are given below for each finish. Anodized finishes
    specified for military and aerospace products. It covers the
    nomenclature for castings is given only for hardcoat. The
    SFRVJSFNFOUT GPS TJY UZQFT BOE UXP DMBTTFT PG BOPEJ[JOH GPS
    DBTUJOHBMMPZTEFTJHOBUJPOGPSBMMTVMGVSJDBDJEöOJTIFTJTUIF
    OPOBSDIJUFDUVSBM BQQMJDBUJPOT  .*-" BMTP GPSNT UIF
    4FSJFTJOTUFBEPGUIF4FSJFTVTFEGPSXSPVHIUBMMPZT0OMZ
    basis for many anodizing specifications that are proprietary
    the most commonly used finishes are shown.)
    UP JOEJWJEVBM DPNQBOJFT  /FBSMZ BMM PG UIFTF QSPQSJFUBSZ
    Alcoa Alumilite System specifications refer to one or more requirements of this mil
    spec.
    "MVNJMJUF  
    "MVNJMJUF  UP The specification includes broad processing conditions
    for anodizing. It also gives important performance and
    "MVNJMJUF  UP acceptance criteria for such attributes as coating weight,
    "MVNJMJUF  UP corrosion resistance, lightfastness, paint adhesion, abrasion
    "MVNJMJUF  NJOJNVN resistance, and dying. Additionally, standards are set for
    general appearance, workmanship, contact marks, inspection,
    "MVNJMJUF    process control, and testing.
    "MVNJMJUF    The anodic coating types and classes are:
    "MVNJMJUF  BOE  öOJTIFT BSF QSPEVDFE BU  BNQT Type I Chromic acid anodizing (conventional)
    QFS TRVBSF GPPU JO BO FMFDUSPMZUF PG QFSDFOU TVMGVSJD BDJE Type IB Chromic acid anodizing (low voltage
    BOEPOFQFSDFOUPYBMJDBDJEBUBUFNQFSBUVSFPG¡'5IFTF method)
    finishes are not sealed unless they are dyed.
    Type IC /PODISPNJDBDJEBOPEJ[JOH GPSVTFBTB
    If the above finishes are produced on castings the designation non-chromate alternative for Type I and IB
    OVNCFSTTUBSUXJUIJOTUFBEPG"IBSEDPBUöOJTIPGNJM coatings)
    UIJDLOFTTXPVMECFEFTJHOBUFEBT"MVNJMJUF Type II 4VMGVSJDBDJEBOPEJ[JOH DPOWFOUJPOBM

    Type IIB 4 VMGVSJDBDJEBOPEJ[JOH GPSVTFBTBOPO


    chromate alternative for Type I and IB
    coatings)
    Type III )BSEBOPEJ[F
    Class 1 /POEZFE
    Class 2 Dyed

    Types I and IB are used when outstanding corrosion resistance,


    paint adhesion, and fatigue resistance are required.

    5ZQFT*$BOE**#BSFVTFEGPSUIFTFTBNFBUUSJCVUFT"OFYBNQMF
    PG 5ZQF *$ XPVME CF UIF #PFJOH #PSJD4VMGVSJD "OPEJ[JOH
    process. Type IIB is a thin film sulfuric acid anodize.

    The specification states that anodic coating thickness should


    be specifically called out by the purchase documents and/or
    the part drawing.

    "O FYBNQMF PG B IBSE BOPEJ[FE BOE CMBDL EZFE öOJTI


    designated by this specification would be:
    .*-" MBUFTUWFSTJPO
    5ZQF*** $MBTTCMBDL NJM
    coating thickness.

    Specifying Anodized Aluminum 8


    APPENDIX 4 'JOJTI NBTT TIBMM CF EFUFSNJOFE QFS "45. #  .BTT TIBMM
    CFBTTQFDJöFEJO5BCMF'JOJTINBTTPODPMPSFEQBSUTTIPVME
    AAC1119 be determined on an equivalent clear sealed finish prior to
    coloring.
    AAC AUTOMOTIVE STANDARD FOR ANODIC OXIDE
    FINISHES PRODUCED BY SULFURIC ACID TABLE 3 FINISH THICKNESS AND FINISH MASS
    ANODIZING OF ALUMINUM Thickness Minimum (μm) Mass Minimum (g/m2)
    Color Exterior Interior Exterior Interior
    1. SCOPE
    CleBS/POEFDPSBUJWF    
    This standard covers the typical requirements for clear and Functional
    DPMPSFE BOPEJD PYJEF öOJTIFT PO BVUPNPUJWF BMVNJOVN BOE &MFDUSPMZUJD    
    BMVNJOVN BMMPZ QBSUT  #BTFE VQPO BQQMJDBUJPO  TJY UZQFT PG #MBDL  4O
    
    BOPEJD PYJEF öOJTIFT BSF TQFDJöFE XJUI FBDI IBWJOH B MFUUFS &MFDUSPMZUJD    
    EFTJHOBUJPOBTTIPXOJO5BCMF #MBDL  $P/J
    
    (PME '"0'40
        
    TABLE 1 FINISH APPLICATION TYPES
    Application Type $PMPSTPUIFSUIBOCMBDLNBZCFBWBJMBCMF'PSCMBDLöOJTIFT 
    $MFBS&YUFSJPS " thicker finishes may be needed to meet requirements of
    $PMPSFE&YUFSJPS # color and gloss.
    Clear Interior C .BUFSJBMTJOQBSFOUIFTFTJOEJDBUFFMFNFOUTPSDPNQPVOET
    Colored Interior D in the pigmentation.
    /POEFDPSBUJWF GVODUJPOBM
     &
    6OTFBMFEGPSQBJOUCBTF GVODUJPOBM
     '

    2. REFERENCED STANDARDS 'JOJTI%FOTJUZ


    "45.# "45.# "45.#  Finish density shall be determined from the results of the finish
    "45.# "45.# 4"&+4  UIJDLOFTTBOENBTTUFTUJOH%FOTJUZTIBMMCFBNJOJNVNPG
    "&+ 4"&+ g/in FRVJWBMFOUUPHEN).
    3. TESTING REQUIREMENTS 'JOJTI %FOTJUZ  'JOJTI .BTT  'JOJTI5IJDLOFTT  '. JO NH
    in
     '5JONJMT
    HJO or if using metric measurements for
    5BCMFJOEJDBUFTXIJDIUFTUTNVTUCFDPOEVDUFEGPSFBDIPG length:
    UIF TJY BQQMJDBUJPO UZQFT JO 5BCMF   5IF SFRVJSFE UFTUT BSF
    EFOPUFECZBO95FTUNFUIPETGPMMPXUIF5BCMF 'JOJTI %FOTJUZ  'JOJTI .BTT  'JOJTI5IJDLOFTT  '. JO NH
    dm
    Y '5JONJDSPOT
    HEN
    TABLE 2 TESTING REQUIREMENTS FOR
    ANODIZED ALUMINUM

    Type Type Type Type Type Type 4FBM2VBMJUZ "%5


    
    5FTU " # $ % & '
    'JOJTI5IJDLOFTT 9 9 9 9 9 9 5IFNBYJNVN"DJE%JTTPMVUJPO5FTU "%5
    SBUJOHTIBMMCF
    'JOJTI.BTT 9 9 9 9 9 9 XIFOUFTUFEBTJO"45.#BOEDBMDVMBUFE VTJOHUIFSFTVMU
    'JOJTI%FOTJUZ 9 9 9 9 9 9 GSPN"45.#
    QFSUIFGPMMPXJOHFRVBUJPO
    4FBM2VBMJUZ (ADT) 9 9 9 9 9
    $PSSPTJPO3FTJTUBODF $"44
     9 9   9 3BUJOH 88
    Y'Y5 88
    
    8FBUIFSPNFUFS  9  9 8IFSF
    'MPSJEB&YQPTVSF  9  9
    88.BTT JONH
    PG'JOJTISFNPWFESFTVMUJOHGSPN
    "45.#
    'JOJTI5IJDLOFTT 885PUBMNBTT JONH
    PG'JOJTISFTVMUJOHGSPN"45.
    Finish thickness shall be determined by microscopical #
    FYBNJOBUJPOPGBDSPTTTFDUJPOQFS"45.#.FBTVSFNFOU
    CZFEEZDVSSFOUQFS"45.#NBZCFVTFEJGSFTVMUTPCUBJOFE 5'JOJTIUIJDLOFTTJONJMTPSNJDSPOT
    DBOCFDPSSFMBUFEXJUIUIFNJDSPTDPQJDBMFYBNJOBUJPONFUIPE *G5JTNFBTVSFEJONJMT '
    5IJDLOFTTTIBMMCFBTTQFDJöFEJO5BCMF
    *G5JTNFBTVSFEJONJDSPOT '
    'JOJTI.BTT

    9 Aluminum Anodizers Council Technical Bulletin #1-01 (Rev. July 6, 2018)


    $PSSPTJPO3FTJTUBODF $"44
     5. INSPECTION AND REJECTION

    $PSSPTJPOSFTJTUBODFTIBMMCFEFUFSNJOFEQFS"45.#5IF All shipments of material or parts under contract or purchase


    NJOJNVNFYQPTVSFTIBMMCFIVOMFTTPUIFSXJTFTQFDJöFE order manufactured to this specification shall be equivalent in
    There shall be no pitting, corrosion, or other appearance every respect to the initial samples approved by the customer.
    DIBOHFBGUFSFYQPTVSF 8JUIPVU QSJPS OPUJöDBUJPO BOE BQQSPWBM CZ UIF DVTUPNFS
    there shall be no changes permitted in either formulation
    or manufacturing processes which would produce products
    different from the initial production samples. Lack of
    8FBUIFSPNFUFS
    notification by the supplier constitutes grounds for rejection
    Type B öOJTIFE QSPEVDUT TIBMM CF FYQPTFE QFS 4"& + PGBOZTIJQNFOU8IJMFTBNQMFTNBZCFUBLFOGSPNJODPNJOH
    GPSL+N"GUFSFYQPTVSFUIFSFTIBMMCFOPCBTFNFUBM shipments and checked for conformance to this specification,
    corrosion or objectionable change in color or gloss level, and the anodize supplier shall accept the responsibility for
    no development of a weathering bloom which cannot be incoming shipments meeting this specification without
    FBTJMZSFNPWFECZQPMJTIJOHXJUI0SJHJOBM%V1POU'PSNVMB dependence upon the customer’s inspection.
    Auto Polish and Cleaner (made by Borden, Inc.) or equivalent.

    Type D öOJTIFE QSPEVDUT TIBMM CF FYQPTFE QFS 4"& +


    6. REVISION HISTORY
    GPS  L+N  "GUFS FYQPTVSF UIFSF TIBMM CF OP JOEJDBUJPO
    of loss of gloss, objectionable color change, or other visible 5IJTTUBOEBSEXBTJOJUJBUFEJO'FCSVBSZ
    detrimental surface deterioration.
    3FWJTJPO %BUF  $IBOHFT
     *OJUJBM    /POF
    'MPSJEB&YQPTVSF

    Type BöOJTIFEQSPEVDUTTIBMMCFFYQPTFEQFS4"&+GPS
    .+NUPUBMTPMBSSBEJBUJPO"GUFSFYQPTVSFUIFSFTIBMM
    be no base metal corrosion or objectionable change in color or
    gloss level, and no development of a weathering bloom which
    cannot be easily removed by polishing with Original DuPont
    'PSNVMB"VUP1PMJTIBOE$MFBOFS NBEFCZ#PSEFO *OD
    PS
    equivalent.

    Type D öOJTIFEQSPEVDUTTIBMMCFFYQPTFEQFS4"&+GPS
    .+NUPUBMTPMBSSBEJBUJPO"GUFSFYQPTVSFUIFSFTIBMM
    be no indication of loss of gloss, objectionable color change,
    or other visible detrimental surface deterioration.

    /PUF
    5IF 8FBUIFSPNFUFS BOE 'MPSJEB &YQPTVSF SFRVJSFNFOUT BSF
    considered to be developmental tests intended for Type B
    and D finished products. They are required for new coloring
    UFDIOPMPHJFT UIBU BSF OPU JODMVEFE JO 5BCMF   *OEJWJEVBM
    suppliers may independently choose to periodically conduct
    these tests to verify their process.

    4. INITIAL SOURCE APPROVAL

    /P TIJQNFOU TIBMM CF NBEF CZ BOZ BOPEJ[F TVQQMJFS UP B
    customer until representative initial production samples have
    been approved by the customer as meeting the requirements
    of this specification.

    Specifying Anodized Aluminum 10

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