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Hard Anodizing

Hard anodizing is an electrochemical process that creates an extremely resistant aluminum oxide layer on the surface of aluminum parts. Unlike classic anodizing, it generates a thicker (25 to 100 microns), harder, and more durable layer.

This treatment is performed in a sulfuric acid bath at a controlled temperature (close to 0 °C) under an electric current. It transforms the surface without adding any material, producing an integrated, non-peelable, and very resistant oxide layer.

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Technical Specifications

Advantages of Hard Anodizing

This process is particularly valued in demanding sectors such as aeronautics, automotive, defense, and mechanical engineering. It notably offers:

High hardness: up to 500 HV (Vickers), close to hardened steel.
Excellent resistance to wear and abrasion, extending the lifespan of parts.
Protection against corrosion even in aggressive environments.
Electrical insulation thanks to a non-conductive layer.
Optimal adhesion for paints and adhesives via a microporous surface.
Uniform aesthetic appearance, with the possibility of coloring in some cases.

Typical Applications

Mechanical parts subject to high stress or friction.
Components for machine tools and industrial molds.
Military and extreme sports equipment.
Aeronautical structures.
Marine equipment or equipment exposed to humidity.

Compatible Metals

Pure aluminum (1000 series): good anodizability but a less hard layer.
Aluminum alloys:
- 2000 series (aluminum-copper): anodization is possible, but with less corrosion resistance.
- 5000 series (aluminum-magnesium): good anodizability.
- 6000 series (aluminum-magnesium-silicon): an excellent compromise for hard anodizing.
- 7000 series (aluminum-zinc): anodizable, with variable results depending on the copper content.

Other Info

Hard Anodizing and Coloring

Here is a translation of the information about coloring and hard anodizing:

What's Possible:

Electrolytic coloring (bronze, black, dark grey tones).
Organic coloring (less stable than on standard anodizing).
Natural shade that varies from grey to dark brown, depending on the alloy, thickness, and process parameters.

Limitations:

Reduced porosity and thickness limit the penetration of dyes.
Bright colors (red, blue, green) are difficult to achieve or are not durable.
The finish is often matte or satin, and rarely glossy.
The color can vary between batches depending on the alloys used.

Good to Know:

If a specific colored appearance is the top priority (e.g., for design or marketing), classic anodizing is generally preferable. Hard anodizing is primarily a functional treatment focused on mechanical resistance and protection, with coloring being a secondary consideration.

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The steps of our hard anodizing process

We are able to provide you with a certificate of compliance guaranteeing the quality and standards of our product.

• Step 1: Surface preparation
Cleaning / degreasing: remove oils, dust, and dirt.
Pickling: immersion in an acid bath (often diluted sulfuric acid) to remove the natural oxide layer and obtain a uniform surface.
Rinsing with deionized water to eliminate any acid residue.
• Step 2: Anodizing
Electrolytic bath: generally sulfuric acid at low temperature (0–5 °C) for hard anodizing.
Electrical connection: the aluminum acts as the anode (+), while a lead or steel cathode is placed in the bath.
Current flow: the duration and intensity of the current determine the thickness and hardness of the layer.
Oxide formation: the aluminum reacts with the acid and forms a dense, hard, and porous oxide layer on the surface.
• Step 3: Rinsing
After anodizing, rinse thoroughly with deionized water to remove acid residues and stabilize the layer.
• Step 4: Pore sealing
Sealing bath: immersion in hot water or steam, sometimes with additives to improve corrosion resistance. Result: the oxide pores close, making the surface harder, impermeable, and more wear-resistant.

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