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Blackening / coloring aluminium by coating

2006

Hello,
I am a maker of musical instrument (drums), and am currently using aluminium gaskets which are visually exposed. A small amount of handling wear can be expected. Is there a way to colour the aluminium without involving electricity? i.e., an oxidising coating which won't come off. Black would be ok.. but other colours more aesthetically pleasing. Would simply painting aluminium with Hammerite [affil links] work? Thanking you in advance,
Timbo UK

Tim Watson

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First of two simultaneous responses --

Paint can adhere quite well if the surface has been properly prepared. But why no electricity? Anodizing, which does involve electricity, would seem to be a way to get a tough and stable finish in just about any color you like.

Ted Mooney, P.E.
Striving to live Aloha
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey
2006

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Second of two simultaneous responses --

Simple aluminium coloring method:
Oil it very ,very sparingly with any edible oil or fat(olive oil is best for aluminium according to old books) ,then heat it slowly to max. 400 °C temp. Instead of oil you can use 20% shellac solution. Good luck!

Goran Budija

2006