Whether you are preparing the surface so it results in your preferred matt or glossy finish or to remove defects and debris that will result in an uneven finish, let’s take a look at how to prepare surfaces for anodising and why it matters.
Why preparation matters
It is essential that surfaces are properly prepared before anodising, as scratches, debris, and marks on the metal’s surface will not be removed or hidden. This means any such defects or dirt issues need to be dealt with before the anodising process begins. Sometimes, these defects occur during the rolling or machining of the base material and may go unnoticed if the surface is not checked directly before anodising.
Matt or shiny
The roughness of the surface will also dictate how the final anodised surface will appear. A rougher surface will have a matte appearance, while a smooth, highly polished surface will result in a shiny or gloss appearance. Your desired finish should also be taken into consideration when you prepare the surface.
Preparation tips
You will need to either polish the surface or add friction via chemical etching to create a glossy or matte appearance respectively. The surfaces should also be cleaned and defects fixed via blasting or polishing before the anodising treatment. Ideally, anodising is carried out by experts such as www.poeton.co.uk/surface-treatments/anodising/, who will have a thorough understanding of the preparation process.
Whether it is to get the desired look or to prevent defects and debris showing through even after anodising, preparation is key to a successful anodising treatment.