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Below is a diagram detailing a basic home set-up for an anodising process. The process is electrolytic and unlike standard electroplating, the treated articles must be connected to the positive connection at the power source. The treated articles are the ANODE. The Cathode (negative) this must be made from high quality lead.

The anodising process imparts a protective film on the surface of the treated aluminium. This treatment also allows the addition of colour to enable treated parts to be afforded an attractive yet resistant coating.

This section of our site will give a little insight into the process. Our products are formulated with ease of use and value in mind so that getting an industrial quality finish is within reach to a range of budgets.

Aluminium component

Water bath - used for cooling

Air agitation

Aluminium wire, connected to positive (+) at power supply

Lead Cathode, connected to negative (-) at power supply

Anodising solution

Cooling

Cooling an anodising solution is one of the first things any user must consider when examining the use of this process. In simple terms, the process gets hot - the hotter it gets, the worse it performs. Therefore any way a user can keep a solution from getting hot will be appreciated in the results attained. Industrial anodisers use refrigerants and expensive cooling systems. In small applications, uses might consider using an outer containment tank which can house cold water and / or ice to keep the solution temperature from rising too much.

Agitation

Agitating your solution is essential for an evenly distributed, quality finish. Whilst it is entirely possible to attain a reasonable finish without any solution agitation, it is recommended that the use of air to agitate the anodising solution be employed. Using small fish tank pumps mean that it’s not an expensive addition - just make sure that anything you put in the tank is not liable to damage by the acidic solution.

Sealing

Newly anodised work, whether it has been dyed or not, MUST be sealed. Sealing is traditionally performed by immersing in boiling water for the same time in which anodising took place, for example; anodise for 1 hour - seal for 1 hour. The water must be kept hot throughout this process and not allowed to cool as imperfect and ineffective sealing will be observed. This process can be reduced greatly by adding a sealing additive.