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world gathers for metal finishing
Q&As since 1989


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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
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
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey
February 22, 2008