Quality Surface Finishing

Astro Anodising

Astro Anodising offers superior anodising services to manufacturers using aluminium in the production of their end products. Our customers are spread over a broad range of different industries including those in the automotive and architectural sectors.

Astro Anodising

With our large selection of colours and finishes and our capability to anodise work in sizes ranging from small parts or machined components right up to lengths of 7.5m, we are truly your “one stop shop”.

Our standard colours are available in either bright or matt options for components up to 3m in length with the exception of green, which is only available for components 500mm x 500mm in size.

Services

Extrusion Anodising
Sheet Anodising
Chemical Brightening
Component Anodising
Architectural Anodising
Specialised Jigging
Mechanical Polishing
Mechanical Brushing

Aluminium Anodising Explained

Anodising is an electro-chemical process used to increase the thickness and density of the surface of metal parts. Anodising changes the microscopic texture of the surface and can change the crystal structure of the metal near the surface.

Origins

The process of anodising derives its name from the fact that the part to be treated forms the anode portion of an electrical circuit in this electrolytic process.

Strength & Durability

Anodising is generally much stronger and more adherent than most paints and plating, making the aluminium less likely to crack and peel.

Cosmetic Applications

Anodising is also used for a number of cosmetic effects, either with thick porous coatings that can absorb dyes or with thin transparent coatings that add interference effects to reflected light. Coatings are often porous and thick, so a sealing process is most often used to improve corrosion resistance.

Carbon steel and anodising

On carbon steel anodising is of no use because rust puffs up and flakes off, constantly exposing new metal to corrosion. With aluminium however, anodising will increase its corrosion resistance.

Our Anodising Services

Anodising will not peel or flake because it is actually part of the metal. The surface is hardened and protected, unaffected by sunlight and virtually fade resistant, ensuring extended product life.

Architectural Division

We offer anodising up to 7.5m in natural finish or a choice of colours. Specifically; Bronze 541, 542 and 543 as well as Black 549. Thickness specifications: 15 or 25 µm.

Natural Anodising is a great pre-treatment for paint or powder coated finishes and is highly recommended for coastal applications due to its superior corrosion resistance. For a durable, cost effective and eco-friendly surface treatment, anodising is the way to go.

Semi Architectural & Brightening Division

Everything from a metre length to 3.35m can be offered in various colours in either a matt or bright finish. Mechanical polishing and brushing on various extrusions are just some of the various pre-treatment options from which one may select. Full size sheets (3m x 1.5m) are also available in a natural finish. Smaller sizes are available in various colours.

Our range of colours includes natural, brass, champagne, gun metal blue, purple, black, red, green, silver, blue, pink, gold, orange, bronze, bronze (541-545) and bronze (double dip Process).

*Please note: purple and green are only available for components under 1m x 1m in size.

Component Division

Here we specialise in the anodising of various aluminium components. Purpose designed titanium jigs are utilised to limit the contact marks. Job specific jigs can be manufactured for volume based work.

Our standard colour range is as follows: natural, gold, purple, silver, brass, green, red, champagne, pink, blue, black, bronze, orange and gun metal blue.

Pretreatment Services

Currently available for small components

Anodising provides greater protection and a more aesthetic finish to aluminium. It also reduces susceptibility to damage, rust and corrosion which will ultimately increase a part or components lifespan and range of use. To do all of this, it is imperative to follow the correct pretreatment process to ensure the surface is clean and so the anodising process is effective.

Aluminium & Steel

Sandblasting Pretreatment (Bead Blasting)

Bead blasting is an abrasive cleaning process that involves smoothing and cleaning aluminium or steel by forcing tiny bead particles at high velocity against the surface using compressed air. Bead blasting is one of the most versatile pretreatment steps that can be followed before the anodising or powder coating process is applied to metal.

This process ensures the surface finish isn't impaired by marks or contaminants which can range from small scuff marks to unwanted material on the surface. Bead blasting can also remove paint and rust from the surface of the material before, and ensure it retains its durable finish after anodising or powder coating.

Aluminium only

Soda or Vapour Blasting Pretreatment

Soda blasting or vapour blasting is a non-abrasive cleaning method that also uses compressed air but is different to bead blasting in that aerosolised particles of sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) mixed with plain water is used instead of tiny solid particles. Soda blasting is particularly effective at removing things such as light rust and old paint before surface finishing takes place.

Vapour blasting is a process that can be used to improve the overall quality (look) of the material. The size of components cannot exceed 800mm x 800mm x 800mm.

Aluminium & Steel

Tumbling Pretreatment

Tumbling is a process that is used when small components are placed in a circular vibrating drum that is filled with abrasive beads. This process is used to remove any unwanted material particles from the original component and polishes the surface providing a smooth finish to the material.

Our tumbling machine can accept components in small quantities and sizes, for example, small door handles.