select
navigate
switch tabs
Esc close

Advice on anodizing deep pockets and holes

0
J
3

Hello, I’m aware of the 720 rule for anodizing, but I’m struggling to apply it effectively to the design of my aluminum components for an optical system. These parts require Type III hard anodizing for improved wear resistance and surface hardness. The most critical component is a mounting bracket with complex geometries, including several thin walls and deep pockets.

There are several deep, narrow pockets (aspect ratio up to 5:1) that are crucial for the optical alignment. How can I ensure uniform anodizing thickness in these hard-to-reach areas? The part also has several threaded holes (M3 and M4) that need to remain functional after anodizing. What’s the best approach to protect these features while ensuring good anodizing coverage on adjacent surfaces?

Solved by JeanTech75

Two of the biggest issues with anodizing deep pockets are the lack of electrolyte flow and the low current densities near the bottom of the holes. However, with sufficient agitation in the bath and correct orientation of the part, the holes can be anodized, albeit to roughly 3 times the diameter of the hole, best case scenario. The deeper the hole, the thinner the anodizing will become towards the bottom. Your 5:1 aspect ratio will mean that there will be thinner plating at the bottom of your hole.

    • J

      Hello, I’m aware of the 720 rule for anodizing, but I’m struggling to apply it effectively to the design of my aluminum components for an optical system. These parts require Type III hard anodizing for improved wear resistance and surface hardness. The most critical component is a mounting bracket with complex geometries, including several thin walls and deep pockets.

      There are several deep, narrow pockets (aspect ratio up to 5:1) that are crucial for the optical alignment. How can I ensure uniform anodizing thickness in these hard-to-reach areas? The part also has several threaded holes (M3 and M4) that need to remain functional after anodizing. What’s the best approach to protect these features while ensuring good anodizing coverage on adjacent surfaces?

      0
    • J

      Two of the biggest issues with anodizing deep pockets are the lack of electrolyte flow and the low current densities near the bottom of the holes. However, with sufficient agitation in the bath and correct orientation of the part, the holes can be anodized, albeit to roughly 3 times the diameter of the hole, best case scenario. The deeper the hole, the thinner the anodizing will become towards the bottom. Your 5:1 aspect ratio will mean that there will be thinner plating at the bottom of your hole.

      0
      Reply
      • J
        JeanTech75

        Is there any way to get around this issue?

        0
        Reply
      • J
        Jim Elliot

        You can create custom electrodes to more evenly anodize the holes, but depending on their size, this can be impractical. Check with a local anodizing shop.

        0
        Reply
Advice on anodizing deep pockets and holes
Your information:




Suggested Topics

Topic
Replies
Views
Activity
Gasket material for short-term hydrotest on carbon steel piping
Looking for advice on selecting a gasket material for temporary spool joints during a hydrotest on carbon steel piping in a refinery. The test medium will be demineralized water (low conductivity, no additives), and... read more
C
0
7
Nov 26
Acrylic or pc for outdoor enclosures
hi! For transparent cover for an outdoor sensor needs to stay clear, handle some impacts, and resist sunlight - would you go with acrylic or polycarbonate? Acrylic has better UV and scratch resistance, but... read more
L
D
3
11
Nov 26
Best flexible 3D printing material for vibration-damping motor mounts
Hi Everyone! We’re designing a vibration-damping mounting bracket (approx. 150×80×40 mm) for a small electric motor housing, and we’re considering 3D printing it in a flexible material. Given the operating environment includes oil exposure,... read more
l
A
1
50
Nov 18
Best 3D printing material for child-safe educational toy prototype
Hello! I need advice on a small prototype for an educational toy aimed at children aged 3–6. It consists of interlocking geometric shapes (around 8–10 parts per set), with no mechanical function. I’m planning... read more
T
F
D
2
1.1k
Jul 16
Alodine coating enough for avionics enclosures?
Hi there, my project is a CNC machined enclosure in 6061-T6 aluminum for an avionics module that’ll be mounted in a wing compartment exposed to temperature swings, some humidity, but not direct salt spray.... read more
G
j
R
2
1.2k
Jul 15