Aluminum Anodizing and Powdercoating Options

[Dr_Tweak]

Over the past couple of years I've tried to have some of my intercoolers anodized black (to get that "incognito" look) with limited success finding a reliable shop to do it. Recently I've started seriously considering putting together my own anodizing line. I've done quite a bit of research on it and have a pretty nice setup figured out. Once it's all set up I'll be able to anodize any aluminum part as well as dye it any color: intercoolers, intercooler piping, valve covers, etc. If you don't already know, anodizing aluminum basically coats it with a very hard coating of aluminum oxide, that increases the durability of the part. During the process you also have the opportunity to dye the aluminum any color. The metal itself is colored, contrary to painting or powder coating a surface, so the finish is extremely durable.

The reason for this thread is I'm basically gauging interest in an aluminum anodizing service to see if it's worth me doing the whole setup or not. If it's something you guys might be interested in please post up.

Along a similar line of thought, powder coating is another thing that I'm interested in getting into and offering as a service. Of course powder coating can be done to any metal surface, not just aluminum, and is also a very durable finish (supposed to be 10 time stronger than paint). Again, any interest in a power coating service?

I would probably work it similar to my wiring service where you ship us the part, we'll anodize or powder coat it, and then ship it back.

-Doc

[97lestyousay]

I think you will find EPA restrictions to be a problem. The etching process is kind of a pain as well.
If you etch to long or at the wrong temp it can remove to much or add to much making close tolorence
parts not fit. It is very hard to find a really good and consistant anodizer. If you get good enough, buisness
will come looking for you.