Metal finishing Q&As since 1989
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Aluminum finish, hard anodized, Lukon 24
Q. I'm working with a naval contractor attempting to extend an 6061_T6 aluminum mast into salt water with a sonar piece attached to the end. To comply with periods of up to 2 months of continuous saltwater immersion, we are planning on using a Lukon 24 hard anodized finish. The mil-spec states this type III finish must survive 14 days under a constant salt water spray with 5 or fewer salt induced pits. This is the only corrosion analysis I have on this type of finish. Does an anyone have any experience or knowledge pertaining to this finish's corrosion resistance?
Jeff Kaloski- Pasadena, California
2003
"The Surface
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A. I have no idea how hard anodize will work. I do know that paint on cast aluminum outboard engines with sacrificial zinc anodes holds up for years.
Todd Osmolski- Charlotte, North Carolina, USA
2003
A. Not many "hard anodize" coatings will withstand the rigors of 14-day salt spray without additional treatments such as sealing. As "sealing" can lower the abrasion resistance of hard anodic coatings, hard anodize is typically provided NON-SEALED. Your applications calls for the added protection afforded by sealing; some work better than others extending corrosion resistance to well over 1,000 hours on some alloys.
Milt Stevenson, Jr.
Syracuse, New York
2003
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