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In house color dyeing (aluminum)

1999

Our business is expanding and while we are respectfully moving right along, I believe that we are capable of achieving our next goal. We are production of light sport aircraft (ultralights) and have a fair supply of clear anodized 6061 thinwall tubing(.90). Our kits are sold as a you paint-um set up and we would like to offer a color die tube for the market. Although business is good, our volume of tubing is rather small.

The information I am looking for: Is it practical for us to die our clear anodized tubing here,in house? It would be a task that I am eager to learn more of. Any thoughts would be very helpful and any contacts for supplies as well.

Thank you all and happy finishing.

Brian Johnson
- Fenton, Michigan

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The way anodized aluminum is dyed is basically just by immersion in a dye tank. The thing is, this must be done after anodizing and before sealing. If you are doing the anodizing in house, it should be fairly simple to add dyes; but if you are purchasing the anodized material, no, you can't dye it because it has already been sealed.

Regards,

Ted Mooney, P.E.
Striving to live Aloha
(Ted can offer longterm or instant help)
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey
1999

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Is it possible to color already anodized aluminum? Like a finished product that has been anodized. If so how is this done?

Thanks

Frank Doe
hobbyist - Elmhurst, Illinois, USA
February 17, 2008

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Of course, paint is a possibility.

Ted Mooney, P.E.
Striving to live Aloha
(Ted can offer longterm or instant help)
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey
February 22, 2008

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