Chromate coating is a coating method that chemically oxidizes the surface of aluminum, creating a more durable layer. Chromate coating extends the life of aluminum products, makes them more aesthetically attractive and is an environmentally friendly process.
What is Chromate Coating?
Chromate coating is a type of chemical treatment or coating used to protect the surfaces of aluminum and aluminum alloys and increase their durability. This process involves coating aluminum surfaces with an oxidizing coating layer.
Chromate coating provides serious corrosion resistance and paint retention on aluminum.
How is Chromate Coating Made?
Chromate coating process is done by treating aluminum with chromate solution. Chromate solution contains chemicals such as chromic acid or potassium dichromate. The aluminum is dipped or sprayed into the chromate solution. No electric current is applied at this time. A thin oxide layer forms on the surface of the aluminum reacting with the chromate solution. The resulting layer can be transparent or colored.
Which Colors Are Chromate Coating Made?
Chromate coating can be made in yellow, green and transparent colors. It covers as yellow chromate Cr+6, green and transparent chromate as Cr+3. Color selection may vary according to the purpose of use and customer request.
How Thick Should the Chromate Coating Be?
The thickness of the allodyne coating can be between 0.4 – 1.5 g/m² depending on the time and type. As the thickness increases, corrosion resistance and electrical contact resistance also increase.
What are the Usage Areas of Chromate Coating?
Chromate coating is preferred in many industries where aluminum products are used. For example:
Aerospace and defense industry
Automotive industry
Electronics and electricity sector
Machine and tool manufacturing
Food and beverage industry
Decoration and architecture
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