Aluminum black oxide process produces uniform coating thickness of 1.5 micron

Birchwood Technologies’ Lumiclad® aluminum black oxide finishing process produces a uniform coating thickness of 1.5 micron that will not close down hole diameters or change critical part dimensions. The smooth black finish has a slightly porous crystal structure that absorbs an optional topcoat such as a dry-to-touch sealant, light oil, or clear polymer.

The process is ideal for power transmission components such as couplings, electrical card cages, and military and weapon components. The finish is also electrically conductive and provides predictable chassis grounding in desired products.

By utilizing a conventional immersion seven-tank line, the process is easy and safe to operate so that manufacturers can operate it in-house, the company says. The cycle takes just 30 minutes. This process can be used components of any size and for large quantities of smaller parts. Parts can be finished on racks, as well as in baskets or barrels without the need to individually clamp each part. The process is electroless and requires no individual racking.