Where the
world gathers for metal finishing
Q&As since 1989


-----

Can Hardcoat Anodize be done in-house?

How complicated is hard coat anodizing to do? it adds tremendous lead time to our lean operation and I'm wondering can a small shop like ours obtain the equipment and expertise to have it in-house. I'm sure there are environmental issues and a significant amount of training required.

Jim Geary
- Monroe, Connecticut
April 2, 2009

---

First of three simultaneous responses --

The answer is yes, you can do it in house. You'll need all the associated equipment, an experienced chemist/engineer, wastewater treatment, containment areas, ventilation, hazardous waste management, employee training and some lab equipment.

A smallish installation will likely cost at least $250K.

Is your time and money better spent finding a more prompt anodizer? Given today's economy, I'll bet you'll find shops salivating to do whatever deliveries you desire.

Jeffrey Holmes, CEF
Spartanburg, South Carolina
April 3, 2009

---

Second of three simultaneous responses --

The difference between soft coat and hard coat is a wide gray fuzzy line, "different strokes for different folks".
Using the average definition, the answer is YES. First we cool the solution down to 50F, or 45F or preferably 32F, rack with more surface area to deliver 2X the current, anodize at 24 amps per square foot, quit thinking about anodizing by "voltage" and measure the surface area and anodize by amps. Refigure the chiling equation to hold the temperature against those increased watts. Amps x volts x 3.4 divided by 12000 then multiplied by 1.48 = tons of chiller. Plan on chilling 75 to 80% of the rectifier watts.
Think that out and come back for more info.

Robert H Probert
Robert H Probert Technical Services

Garner, North Carolina

April 3, 2009

---

Third of three simultaneous responses --

Yes, but it is NOT cheap!
Part size and quantity that you need to run will be driving factors on tank size and thus initial cost.

James Watts
- Navarre, Florida
April 4, 2009

---

Everything is correct, but using different electrolyte you can significantly decrease use of cooling devices, thus decreasing cost of the equipment. Hard anodizing can be done in temperature around 60 F, and simple anodizing - in room temperature.

Anna Berkovich
Russamer Lab

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

April 12, 2009