Just a Sparky
Hot Rolled
- Joined
- May 2, 2020
- Location
- Minnesota
I've got a project I'm working on involving some machined aluminum that will be exposed to water during normal operation. Not positive on the alloy but confident it's nothing exotic. 50xx series or 6061 I'm guessing.
Given that this part needs to accept pipe and machine threads, would anodizing be a wise choice? I'd prefer a high polish finish, but given aluminum oxide's tendency to 'creep' underneath paint, etc. I'm guessing any sort of clear varnish or the like is going to be an exercise in futility.
Also, what exactly is the difference between 'hard' anodizing and the traditional sort? Merely the thickness? Or are changes made to the process to induce slightly different characteristics in the oxide layer formed?
Thanks.
Given that this part needs to accept pipe and machine threads, would anodizing be a wise choice? I'd prefer a high polish finish, but given aluminum oxide's tendency to 'creep' underneath paint, etc. I'm guessing any sort of clear varnish or the like is going to be an exercise in futility.
Also, what exactly is the difference between 'hard' anodizing and the traditional sort? Merely the thickness? Or are changes made to the process to induce slightly different characteristics in the oxide layer formed?
Thanks.