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Variations in AL6061 anodized parts

2002

Hi,

I'm the SQE for an Automation house.

Needing some help as our Al 6061 anodized parts are coming in many different hues (colour-wise).

The vendors claim that it's because of the different variations - T3, T4, T5 and T6 variety.

Is this really a factor or more importantly - length of time for anodizing. - quality of the anodizing solutions. - 'cleanliness' of the part before being soaked in the bath.

Thanks,

Ho Kai Hong
- Penang, Penang, Malaysia

It wasn't clear to me whether you have a single supplier or multiple suppliers. If you have multiple suppliers, there is no hope of getting the same color unless they use the same brand of dye. Once that is established, the thickness of the anodizing is probably the biggest factor in color differences. But exact matching is indeed difficult and will not occur unless every step of the process is the same.

Ted Mooney, P.E.
Striving to live Aloha
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey
2002

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