Metal finishing Q&As since 1989

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Anodize type III class 2 in color?

Our customer's drawing notes anodize per MIL-A-8625 / MIL-PRF-8625 [on DLA] Type III Class 2 color red (material is Aluminum 6061-t6).Can anyone answer the question?. Are there many colors for type III class 2 ?Or just only black? Thanks!

Tony Hwa
- New York
 

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There are different methods of doing hardcoat.

When we used to do conventional hardcoat, you would end up with the coating producing a color from grey to greyish bronze & it would be hard to dye that a decorative color, like red. Black was really the only option available.

Now that we run a different method of hardcoat, with a additive, which still meets the mil-spec, the finish comes out almost colorless, & yes, it can be dyed red & other decorative colors.

David A. Kraft
- Long Island City, New York
 

You can dye the traditional hardcoat red, but it will come out a dark burgundy color. It looks good, but it won't be a bright "fire engine" red that your customer may want.

Guy Lester
plating co. - Ontario, California USA