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Nickel chrome finish for aluminum parts with anodizing process

June 29, 2009

I do not have enough experience with aluminum anodizing ,
Can I get nickel chrome finish for aluminum parts with anodizing process
If that possible can you tell me what Chemicals or Dyes I need to use
Waiting for your reply

Ahmed Anwer
architect - Egypt

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July 8, 2009

Hello Ahmed,
I am sure that like me, many people have read your letter and decided that the question is just too massive to answer and passed on by. But here goes.
Anodising is not a decorative process like nickel/chrome but confers corrosion and abrasion resistance to aluminium. It actually dulls aluminium. It is used a part of sequence for producing decorative finishes including those competing with nickel/chrome. The extent to which brightness a shine can be achieved depends on the alloy used and the corrosion protection needed.
In order to give you some guidance, please say what your application is and the alloys used. Are we talking about external architectural applications for example?
Harry

Harry Parkes
- Birmingham, UK

Sorry, we had misplaced Ahmed's graphic. Here it is, and it may clarify the application a bit:

Regards,

Ted Mooney, P.E.
Striving to live Aloha
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey
July 8, 2009

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July 8, 2009

Hello,

Looking at the photo, it is hard to say if it would work for your application or not, but a bright dip or electropolish followed by a clear anodize can give you a VERY shiny coating, possibly something like what you are looking for. The color of the finish will be slightly different - still a mirror like finish, just a very mild variation.

Many lamp reflectors are made using the same process.

Good Luck

Jim Gorsich
Compton, California, USA