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Compatibility of Stainless Steel and Anodized Aluminum

I manufacture handgun grips on a CNC machine from 6061-t6 plate stock. After machining the grips are either type 2 (.005^^.0005 min thick) or type 3 (.002 min thick) anodize. I have been told that the grips can cause a problem with the integrity of the stainless steel frame of the gun. Is this true and if so what would be the length of time before the integrity of the stainless becomes compromised. (assuming the gun isn't submerged in salt water)

Chris Lynch
- Mesa, Arizona, USA
2003

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I think you got the thicknesses reversed, however, Type II is normally sealed and if properly and fully sealed will have no galvanic relationship with the stainless steel. Type III is normally not sealed, but again the thickness is so heavy there should not be any galvanic problem.

Robert H Probert
Robert H Probert Technical Services

Garner, North Carolina

2003

The original posting should have read .0005 thick Type 2 Anodize not .005

Chris Lynch
- Mesa, Arizona
2003