Brass Anodizing: A Complete Guide
Brass anodizing is a process that improves the surface finishing and other properties of brass components. It is a process that offers various advantages.
If you want to learn about the process of brass anodizing and its applications, you can go through this guide below.
What is Brass Anodizing?
Brass anodizing is a surface finishing method that is applied to brass components.
The process of brass anodization helps to improve the performance and appearance of the brass components. This process is the same as the anodization process used for other metals like aluminum, except that it is specifically for custom brass components.
Advantages Of Anodizing Brass
There are multiple advantages offered by brass anodization, and some of these are the following:
Enhanced Durability
The layer of protection after anodizing the brass components enhances the wear resistance of the component and improves its life durability.
Resistance to Corrosion
The anodized layer is a layer of oxide that keeps the brass protected against rust and corrosion to be formed on its surface.
Aesthetic Finish
The anodizing on the brass components can be carried out in different colors. Such an option makes the component look visually appealing, having multiple color tones.
Suitable for Environment
The process of brass anodization is safe, and it doesn't harm people or the environment. The anodizing finish does not produce any type of toxins, nor does it decompose.
Ease of Maintenance
The maintenance of the anodized brass components is very simple and doesn't require any special care. It can be cleaned with the help of a mild detergent and a damp cloth.
Affordable
The process of brass anodizing is very cost-effective. Moreover, due to its easy maintenance, in the long run, it helps save on costs and remains durable.
How To Perform Brass Anodizing
The process of performing brass anodizing has different steps, which are discussed below:
Clean the Component
Before the process starts, you have to ensure the cleaning of the brass component. It should be free from all types of contaminants.
Water and soap can be used to clean the surface, as well as chemical cleaners. Once you have cleaned the surface, make sure to rinse it with warm water.
Prepare Anodizing Solution
In order to prepare the solution for anodizing, you will need distilled water and phosphoric acid. The ratio of the two contents will be 10:1 respectively. This solution is to be mixed in a container made of any material except metal.
In case you require different brass finishes, you can add some other additives accordingly.
Application of Solution
Once the solution is ready, you can apply it to the brass components. There are different ways to apply; for instance, you can use spray bottles as well.
When the brass is completely covered in the solution, let it rest for half an hour. The solution will be absorbed in the brass component, and after half an hour, you can clean it with warm water and let it dry.
Anodizing
Now, immerse the brass component in the anodizing bath in which the electric current will flow and it will form a layer of oxide on the component. This reaction of chemicals will ensure that the durability and strength of brass are enhanced.
Applications For Brass Anodizing
Some of the applications of brass anodizing are given below:
Marine Applications
In the marine industry, brass is mostly chosen due to the exceptional corrosion resistance it offers when exposed to saltwater. Hence, the anodized brass is mostly opted for navigation equipment, boat fittings, and other components so that their structural integrity is maintained.
Industrial Equipment
Anodized brass is used in industrial equipment due to its corrosion resistance and dimensional stability. Hence, when used in industrial machines, they stay as they are. They can perform reliably in the long run, even if the environment is challenging.
Jewelry
Anodized brass is very commonly used in manufacturing jewelry. It adds a very unique look to the jewelry pieces and also ensures their strength. Whether you need to have rings, earrings, necklaces, or bracelets, anodized brass helps create them. They can even withstand moisture and dust.
Architectural Accessories
Architectural accessories are meant to have durability as well as elegance. Various brass components like decoratives and door handles are made using anodized brass which helps to enhance the aesthetics of these accessories and also offers long-term usage.
How to Determine the Success of Brass Anodizing?
After the process of anodizing brass, if you want to check whether the process has been successful or not, you can consider the following techniques for assessment.
Measurement of Thickness
Measure the thickness of the anodized brass with the help of a micrometer to check if it meets the minimum requirement or not. In case the thickness is higher, the coating may crack due to brittleness. If it is too thin, it may not provide the required protection.
Adhesion of Coat
To check the adhesion of the anodized brass, you can use tape and apply it to the surface of the anodized component. When you peel it off, and no coating comes out, it means the process is successful.
Resistance Against Corrosion
You can test the anodized brass component by applying a salt spray on it and checking if the coating is peeled off or not. If the coating does not degrade after it, this means that the anodizing process is successful.
Uniformity of Color
Visually inspect the anodized brass and compare it to the standard to check if the component of brass has attained a consistent color on the entire surface without any patchy areas.
Conclusion
This guide made it clear how brass can be anodized. If you are looking to have your brass components anodized for different applications, you can get in touch with us at DEK.
We offer successful brass anodization, which ensures perfect coating, excellent color consistency, and seamless durability.
FAQs
Can anodized brass be powder-coated?
Yes, anodized brass can be powder-coated but proper adhesion of anodization must be ensured before powder coating.
What are the common types of brass anodized parts that we see?
The common types of brass anodized parts consist of black anodized parts which are used in high-emission applications to dissipate heat. The black coat on them also offers non-conductive features.
Heat-anodizing brass is also a common one. It is a brass component that is heated to achieve certain colors and textures.
