Anodizing type

Sulfuric Acid Anodize - Type II

Type II aluminum anodizing is performed using a sulfuric acid bath to create the anodic aluminum oxide surface. This method is often referred to as “conventional anodizing” for good reason. Type II anodizing is very versatile and provides an ideal surface for dye application. The resulting color will vary with alloy composition. Aluminum with low alloying elements will show practically no color change. This means Type II can be dyed practically any color or shade.

Sulfuric Acid Anodize - Type III

Type III sulfuric acid anodizing is commonly referred to as “hardcoat anodizing” as it is used to protect aluminum parts in harsh wear applications. Hardcoat anodizing creates a denser anodized layer that may reach up to 0.002″ in thickness. Type III is dyed easiest of all because of the deep pores created. The hardcoat process darkens and alters the base metal enough so that the color is dramatically different than Type II.