Anodizing Overview
Anodizing is an electrolytic passivation process used to increase the thickness and density of the natural oxide layer on the surface of metal parts. The anodization process is named after the part to be treated, which represents the anode — or positive portion — of an electrical circuit in an electrolytic solution.
Anodizing increases corrosion and wear resistance and can prevent galling of threaded parts. Anodic films can also be used for cosmetic purposes: a thick porous coating can absorb dyes (aluminum anodization), or a thin transparent coating can add interference effects to reflected light (titanium anodization).
Anodization changes the microscopic texture of the surface and can change the crystal structure of the base metal near the surface. Anodic films are generally much stronger and more adherent than most paints, platings, and other coating technologies — making them far less likely to crack and delaminate.
Anodic films are most commonly applied to protect aluminum alloys, although APT has also developed a proprietary, breakthrough process for anodizing titanium.
Our Anodizing Services
Titanium Anodizing
Brilliant, dye-free color anodizing for medical devices and precision components. APT’s proprietary anodic film technology delivers exceptional consistency, production-scale throughput, and competitive processing costs. Learn more about titanium anodizing →
Aluminum Anodizing
Type II and Type III hard coat anodizing for corrosion resistance and cosmetic appeal, perfected over the past 15 years. Learn more about aluminum anodizing →