Summary for both polished and matte finish Discussion
Both polished and matte finish on anodised aluminum is possible on one part, according to the answer in this thread. WY Wong of HK asked whether a decorative aluminum part could keep two different surface looks—sandblasted and polished—after anodizing, since the anodiser said only one overall finish was possible. The reply disagreed with that limitation, saying there is “absolutely no reason” the part could not be anodized satisfactorily as long as the blasted areas have been done well and evenly. The answer also notes that glass bead blasting may give better results than sandblasting for the matte areas. The practical takeaway is that the surface preparation quality matters, and a skilled anodizer should be able to handle mixed finishes on the same piece.
Q. I have an Al part that has 2 finishes, sandblast and polish, on one piece for decorative purposes. The anodiser explains that we can’t have them both, we can either choose to have polish and not-so-matte surface or vice versa. Is there any way to get around this?
WY Wong
– HK
2001
“The Surface
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A. As long as a GOOD, EVEN, job has been done on the blasted surfaces (you’ll have better results with glass bead blasting, then sandblasting), there is absolutely no reason why the part couldn’t be anodized to your satisfaction.
Marc Green
anodizer – Boise, Idaho
2001
A. The various finishes will have no recourse on the anodizing finish. Many many parts are done that have different surfaces. Some machined, some turned, some knurled and some polished. This should make no difference whatsoever to your anodizer. It can be done.
Matthew Stiltner
– Toledo, Ohio
2001