Enhancing Metal Finishing with Bright Dip Anodizing

Understanding What Causes Gassing in the Bright Dip Anodizing Process

In the realm of metal finishing, Bright Dip Anodizing stands out as a sophisticated process that not only enhances the aesthetics of metal surfaces but also provides functional benefits. However, challenges such as gassing can sometimes hinder the outcome of this process. Let’s delve into the intricacies of Bright Dip Anodizing, exploring why gassing occurs, how to prevent it, and why Aerospace Metals are a top choice for Bright Dip Anodizing.

Understanding Bright Dip Anodizing: Bright Dip Anodizing is a specialized electrochemical process that enhances the appearance and properties of metal surfaces. It involves immersing the metal in a chemical bath, which creates a protective oxide layer on the surface. This process not only improves corrosion resistance but also offers a glossy, reflective finish. 

The Mystery of Gassing: Gassing is a common issue that can occur during Bright Dip Anodizing. This phenomenon manifests as the formation of bubbles or pits on the metal surface, leading to an uneven finish. Gassing is primarily caused by the presence of impurities, such as hydrogen gas, trapped within the metal substrate. These impurities can be released during the anodizing process, disrupting the formation of the oxide layer and compromising the final look of the metal surface.Very difficult to see “streaks” or “drip marks” are symptoms of gassing.

Strategies to Avoid Gassing: To mitigate gassing during Bright Dip Anodizing, meticulous preparation is key. Thoroughly cleaning the metal surface to remove contaminants and ensuring proper degassing of the substrate can help minimize the risk of gassing. Additionally, optimizing process parameters, such as temperature and current density, can aid in achieving a flawless finish. 

Aerospace Metals recommends the following aluminum alloys for Bright Dip Anodizing:  5357, 5457, 5557, 6063, 6463 & 6061.

Aerospace Metals does not recommend the following aluminum alloys for Bright Dip Anodizing:  Castings, 2000 & 7000