How to make aluminum surface finish more scratch resistant?
How to make aluminum surface finish more scratch resistant?
(OP)
In a product I'm developing, the housing is to be made of aluminum. For the prototype, I had them sandblast and anodize it. While it looks beautiful (like the back of a Iphone), the surface is very easy to scratch.
I thought anodizing is supposed to make it more scratch resistant. Then again, I'm not an expert on anodizing and I've heard there are different types. For my prototype, I didn't use any color because I like the natural metallic look. But I've seen anodized aluminum with a black or colored finish that seems to hold up better to scratches.
I'm thinking rather than a sandblasted finish, how about a brushed finish. I would think scratches are less noticeable on a brushed metal finish (camouflages better) , what do you think?
thx
I thought anodizing is supposed to make it more scratch resistant. Then again, I'm not an expert on anodizing and I've heard there are different types. For my prototype, I didn't use any color because I like the natural metallic look. But I've seen anodized aluminum with a black or colored finish that seems to hold up better to scratches.
I'm thinking rather than a sandblasted finish, how about a brushed finish. I would think scratches are less noticeable on a brushed metal finish (camouflages better) , what do you think?
thx





RE: How to make aluminum surface finish more scratch resistant?
A brush finish may show through.
Chris, CSWA
SolidWorks 14
ctopher's home
SolidWorks Legion
RE: How to make aluminum surface finish more scratch resistant?
RE: How to make aluminum surface finish more scratch resistant?
What is Engineering anyway: FAQ1088-1484: In layman terms, what is "engineering"?
RE: How to make aluminum surface finish more scratch resistant?
Always specify a dyed/colored anodize, or you will suffer recurring problems with UN-anodized parts being confused with clear-anodized parts. This, I know.
Mike Halloran
Pembroke Pines, FL, USA
RE: How to make aluminum surface finish more scratch resistant?
What are you using?
RE: How to make aluminum surface finish more scratch resistant?
On balance, I think a thicker anodize is probably the best option.
RE: How to make aluminum surface finish more scratch resistant?
RE: How to make aluminum surface finish more scratch resistant?
RE: How to make aluminum surface finish more scratch resistant?
If you can afford the cost, you can use black electroless nickel plating, which is very hard and durable.