Color Anodized Aluminum Automotive Components

This paper outlines the process for the production of ANOLOK^® finishes and compares it with alternative methods of producing colored anodic finishes on aluminum. The properties of ANOLOK finishes are reviewed and results of accelerated and long term corrosion tests discussed. The practicalities of introducing the process into a typical bright anodizing line are considered.

The economics of producing ANOLOK finishes along with alternative methods of producing colored finishes are outlined and desirable improvements to the process are identified.

Electrolytic coloring, on the other hand, can be carried out on bright or matte anodized finishes and the reflectivity of the finish is not affected. In addition, the lightfastness of the color is not dependent on anodic film thickness. These unique features of electrolytic coloring allow production of bright black anodized finishes having excellent lightfastness with the film thickness and alloys commonly used in the automotive industry.