The authoritative public forum
  for Metal Finishing since 1989
  

  -----

E Nickel vs. Sulfuric Anodize

I am looking for a comparison between having steel and aluminum aircraft handles plated. We are currently having them E Nickel plated but are looking at switching to Sulfuric Anodize as it seems to be more forgiving. The problem we are having with E Nickel is that we work hard to have a perfect surface then the E nickel magnifies the un before seen nicks.

Can you help me.

Jim Jetton
Aircraft Security - Dallas, Texas
2005

---

Hello Mr Jetton,

You might want to look at shotblasting the handles to a matte finish before E N in order to evenly roughen up the surface so that nicks are totally hidden. sulfuric Anodise will not be a durable finish; you did say they are handles.

Khozem Vahaanwala
Saify Ind

Bengaluru, Karnataka, India

2005

---

2005

I don't see how you can claim that sulfuric anodize isn't durable - one of the primary reasons for a hardcoat is the abrasion resistance and we've type II anodize tons of handles for customers and not had anybody complain about durability.

That being said, in anodize as well as in plating, the quality coming in is reflected in the quality going out. A matte finish might well definitely aid you in a more uniform appearance, but if you want lots of shine, an electro-polish followed by anodizing may be just what your looking for.

Either way, the best way to see what meets your needs would be to have a few samples run and see what you think. One thing you should be aware of, and may already be, is that the anodize would only apply to the aluminum; you'll have to figure out something else for the steel.

Good luck.

Jim Gorsich
Compton, California, USA

---

I stand corrected on the anodise not being durable enough as I hadn't realised that Mr Jetton meant Hard Anodise.

We have not come across Hard Anodising bieng used on Handles, common applications in India include Switchgear Housings and Industrial Engg applications.

Khozem Vahaanwala
Saify Ind

Bengaluru, Karnataka, India

2005