Can someone please shed some light on the typical aluminum (aka billet) anodizing expectations...rationale? There are so many options out there that I'm confused...such as an under hood component that is solid aluminum and I get it polished...is it also necessary that I get it anodized for further protection from the elements? Is that really necessary? What's the difference between anodizing and 'bright dip' anodizing etc...when is this process necessary or un-necessary? Thanks, P1.
Primitive1
Without trying to confuse you more ,
Bright Dip is a chemical process that brightens aluminum and does not leave deposits on the surface of the part. The degree of brightness is dependent on the type of alloy as well as the surface finish of the part. With some alloys making it more possible than others to get a reflective, mirror type of finish
Anodizing entails the immersion of an aluminum part in an electrolyte where an electric current is passed through the part. The surface is converted to aluminum oxide — one of the hardest substances known.
Proper formation of aluminum oxide coatings provides aluminum with a natural decorative appearance and increased resistance to corrosion and abrasion. In addition, it serves as a base for color absorption to create decorative finishes.
Okay that being said regular anodizing tends to be more of a satin type finish and the bright dipped has more luster and from my experience I feel standard anodizing is more acceptable to scratching than than bright dipped as well a longer lasting finish.
Bright Dip is a chemical process that brightens aluminum and does not leave deposits on the surface of the part. The degree of brightness is dependent on the type of alloy as well as the surface finish of the part. With some alloys making it more possible than others to get a reflective, mirror type of finish
Anodizing entails the immersion of an aluminum part in an electrolyte where an electric current is passed through the part. The surface is converted to aluminum oxide — one of the hardest substances known.
Proper formation of aluminum oxide coatings provides aluminum with a natural decorative appearance and increased resistance to corrosion and abrasion. In addition, it serves as a base for color absorption to create decorative finishes.
Okay that being said regular anodizing tends to be more of a satin type finish and the bright dipped has more luster and from my experience I feel standard anodizing is more acceptable to scratching than than bright dipped as well a longer lasting finish.
So if I'm going to get an under hood piece of aluminum 'polished' (valve covers), should I consider clear anodizing on top of that? Would that actually diminish the polished 'shine'? So 'bright dip' would provide a harder/shinier finish on top of a polished piece versus 'clear anodize' on a polished piece? Is either really necessary (in your experience)? I really appreciate the insight, it's maddening to try and figure out the best way to go here...
Okay if you are going polished valve covers , and keeping the natural color yes I would suggest clear anodizing or a good gloss clear hi temp paint coating (eastwood company has some Very good products) for the fact that a polished aluminum finish will oxidize and require lots of cleaning .
Now just to throw this in as far as say valve covers you could always get polished and then clear powder coat them to keep that shiny appearance of powdwer coat to a color of your choice.
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