How to Annondize Aluminum
Aluminum alloys are softer and more malleable than steel and other metals, which makes them preferable for machining projects on small lathes. Unfortunately, aluminum parts are more susceptible to dents and rust than other metal alloys. Anodizing separates aluminum oxide from raw aluminum, creating a layer of aluminum hydroxide on the aluminum surfaces. Aluminum hydroxide is stronger and more porous than raw aluminum. The porous surface accepts dyes more readily and the stronger surface is more resistant to rust and corrosion.
Things You'll Need
- Water
- Dish soap
- Washcloth
- Aluminum pieces
- Rubber gloves
- Goggles
- Fire extinguisher
- Waterproof tarp
- 6V to 12V battery charger
- Aluminum wire
- Aluminum foil
- Rubber bucket
- Cake pan
- Fabric dye
- Large saucepan
- Stove top with multiple burners
- Vegetable steamer
Instructions
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1
Soak the aluminum pieces in warm soapy water and wash away any dirt or grease with a washcloth. Let the components dry completely.
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2
Open the waterproof tarp and position it on the floor underneath you. Wear your rubber gloves and goggles. Keep the fire extinguisher nearby. Place the rubber bucket on the tarp.
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3
Measure 6 inches of aluminum wire. Strip this 6-inch section of wire and shape it into a loop. Wrap aluminum foil around the loop. Lower the loop into the rubber bucket while holding the other end of the wire.
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4
Clamp the end of the wire that you are holding onto the negative terminal of your battery charger. Blend one part water to two parts sulfuric acid in the rubber bucket until you have enough solution to completely submerge your aluminum pieces.
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5
Secure the positive wire from the battery charger onto a piece of aluminum with a clamp and lower the aluminum piece into the bucket. Turn the battery charger on and wait 15 minutes. Shut off the charger after the aluminum piece stops bubbling. Take the aluminum piece out of the bucket and rinse it under cold water.
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6
Mix together one part fabric dye and two parts water in the cake pan. Place the piece of aluminum in the cake pan. The dye mixture should cover the aluminum piece completely.
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7
Set the cake pan on your stove top. Put your burner on a "Low" setting and periodically turn the piece of aluminum over. Boil water in the saucepan. Monitor the aluminum piece carefully. Remove the piece from the cake pan when it is a shade darker than the ideal shade.
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Move the aluminum piece into the saucepan to lighten the color. Put the piece into a vegetable steamer and wait 30 minutes. Remove the aluminum piece and let it dry. Repeat this procedure to anodize the remaining aluminum pieces.
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Tips & Warnings
You will handle chemicals throughout this process, so it is imperative that you read and follow all directions carefully.
