Download the Hardcoat instructions here (HARD COAT INSTRUCTIONS)
Hardcoat Type III aluminum anodizing is a coating frequently found on firearms and aircraft parts. It is a much thicker and harder coating than a standard anodize coating, and is not usually dyed.
Standard dyed Type II anodize is generally around 0.75 – 1.0 mil (thousands of an inch) thickness. When Type III anodizing, thicknesses are between 2.0 – 2.5 mils. The pore structure of the anodized layer in Type III anodize is also much smaller than a Type II, which is why it is very difficult to dye (the dye can’t enter the pores easily).
To achieve the small pore size, the anodize bath must be chilled down to 37-40 def F with the use of a chiller (not included).
- Provides Excellent Electrical Insulation
- C60-C70 Rockwell
- Up to 10 times more durable than raw aluminum
- Excellent Lubricity
Our Type III Anodizing System provides you with the tanks, chemicals and instructions to achieve a Type III coating. You must purchase the Sulfuric Acid and a Chiller.
The system includes:
- 3 x 6 Gallon Tanks (Degrease, Desmut, Anodize). Rinse tanks not required if you use the rinse bottle included and rinse over the tanks.
- 1 x 8.5 Gal Enameled Tank (Sealing Step). Heat sealer to boiling on hot plate
- 4 lb Aluminum Degreaser Powder (Makes 6 Gallons)
- 3 Quarts Deoxidizer/Desmut (Makes 6 Gallons)
- 2 x 8″ x 8″ GP Plates
- 2 lb x Anodize Sealer (Makes 32 gallons total)
- 6 Feet Titanium Wire
- 1 x 4 oz Anodize Fume Suppressant
- Rinsing Bottle
- 30 Amp/30 Volt Constant Current Rectifier
Requires 1.75 Gallons Battery Acid and an Aquarium Chiller capable of chilling 5 gallons to 37-40 deg F. This is not supplied in the kit.
Care should be taken to secure all chiller piping to avoid acid spills.
Type III coatings of 2 mils can be achieved by anodizing at 6 amps per square foot for 2 hours. The rectifier included in this system will anodize parts up to 4 sq feet at 6 amps per square foot.
Type III coatings will appear as a Dark Grey color. You could dye them with a black dye to be slightly darker, but they do not readily accept dye.
