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Ted Mooney, P.E. RET
Pine Beach, NJ
The authoritative public forum
for Metal Finishing since 1989
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In a BIG jam
I'm in a big'ole jam here guys, and gals..and I'm hoping someone can help me out. I'm dealing with some 6061 plate material that has a very large grain structure in the middle of the plate. Believe it or not.. I'm getting an RA of over 65 (cross grain) on the machined out areas (towards the middle of the plate) I need to meet a 65 minimum. Normally, I won't get even close to that high even on a 5 mil hardcoat -- let alone, only 2 mil. We have tried buffing this section down to a 3-4 RA prior to coating, and yet still end up with obnoxiously high RA #'s after coating. I've tried longer/shorter etch to no avail. Anyone got any ideas/suggestions? I'm in a rough spot..and willing to try anything. Polishing after anodizing, unfortunately, isn't an option. Thanks in advance for any ideas.
Marc Green
anodizer - Boise, Idaho
I'll apologize in advance. SORRY. That said, have you tried an iridium coin? Their properties are said to be magical. (Just had to throw that one in for you Marc) I'll check with some of my sources and see if they have any brilliant ideas. This one is a toughie.
Dan Brewerchemical process supplier - Gurnee, Illinois
Oh my... Dan.. I owe you one for that!
Marc Green
anodizer - Boise, Idaho
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