Frequently Asked Questions

Type III “Hard” Anodizing, for aluminum substrates, is desirable for applications requiring an extra hard surface and increased oxide thickness. This process uses sulfuric acid at a much lower temperature and higher current density that results in a much thicker and harder surface. Magnaplate processes parts with Type III Anodize, Classes 1 and 2. We manage key critical anodizing factors such as temperatures, chemistries and amperages, and employ an automated ramping process to ensure a uniform application every time.

All too often, anodize alone does not provide the level of protection required. For these more demanding applications, Magnaplate’s proprietary anodize-based processes can provide solutions. Magnaplate’s coatings have the additional benefits of dry lubricants or polymer impregnation, to further expand the use of aluminum, titanium and magnesium for parts in challenging conditions.

TUFRAM® - Tufram combines the hardness of aluminum oxide ceramic with the desirable properties of selected Magnaplate proprietary polymers and dry lubricants. These features allow Tufram to outperform conventional hard anodizing and similar processes when it comes to wear and corrosion resistance, friction reduction, hardness and permanent lubricity.

MAGNAPLATE HCR® - Combining the hardness of aluminum oxide ceramic with the sealing action of metallics and proprietary polymers, Magnaplate HCR imparts hardness and previously unattainable corrosion resistance and permanent lubricity to aluminum and aluminum alloy parts.

CANADIZE® - This permanent, dry lubricated and thin ceramic coating protects titanium alloy parts against wear, abrasion, adhesion, galling and seizing. Canadize not only lowers the COF of titanium substrates, but also prevents hydrogen embrittlement.

MAGNADIZE® - Magnadize offers superior oxidation prevention for magnesium alloys, protecting against wear, outgassing and thermal extremes while minimizing friction. It can also provide corrosion resistance and lubricity for both the application and alloy being used.

Multi-part assemblies should be anodized before assembly. Due to the strong alkaline and acids involved, studs, pins, threaded inserts or standoffs may corrode. Corroded materials in the anodizing tanks can affect current flow during electrolytic processes. In addition, gaps between components can trap chemicals and cause complications.

In general, tighter angles are challenging. For example, the coating may not reach a 90-degree corner. C surfaces are less difficult to coat, while radiused surfaces are better to work with. Parts with extremely thin areas may not be conducive to the anodize process. It can be difficult to obtain a uniform thickness with deep blind holes within parts.

High strength alloys or materials such as titanium can develop hydrogen embrittlement, which can cause the part to crack and fail under loads. During the cleaning process, which often involves acidic materials, certain alloys will impart hydrogen to the surface of the metal, which causes the embrittlement. Specialized procedures can be performed on the part after coating, or alternative cleaning processes can be used to expel the hydrogen from the surface and avoid the issue.

Yes, they do. Our coatings comply with a variety of specs including AMS 2482, AMS 2488, MIL-PRF-8625, MIL-A-63576, MIL-DTL-5002 and MIL-M-45202. Please contact us at info@magnaplate.com for any additional questions regarding standards and specifications.

Many of our anodize-based coatings comply with USDA/FDA food codes (CFR 21 175.300).

A number of factors can influence the cost of your anodized coating. For example, hard anodizing is performed at a lower temperature and at a higher current and voltage than clear anodizing. The higher energy consumption required can add to your cost. Other factors include the time and effort required for masking and racking, the amount of rinsing needed — especially when smaller features are involved — and poor, unclear specifications can lead to additional work.

Many of our coatings are FDA Compliant, which means they are compliant with 21 CFR subsection 175.300 of section 175, “Indirect Food Additives: Adhesives and components of coatings” and Subsection 177.1550, “Perfluorocarbon resins.”

The FDA has no approval process for nonstick coatings that come into direct contact with food. They do not review the composition of these coatings and do not inspect or test them.

The FDA provides an extensive set of regulations for the formulation, manufacture and use of nonstick coatings. Therefore, the manufacturers of nonstick coatings have the responsibility for compliance to these regulations. Since the FDA does not approve any coatings, coatings are deemed “FDA Compliant” or “FDA Acceptable” but not “FDA Approved.”

Yes, many of our coatings are REACH and RoHS compliant. Contact your Magnaplate sales team member for information on specific coatings.

Yes, we have certification for Chemical Processing under Nadcap. Administered by PRI (Performance Review Institute), Nadcap is a global program to establish requirements for accreditation, to accredit suppliers and to define program requirements for the aerospace, defense and related industries. PRI provides independent certification of processes and a standardized approach to quality assurance with a reduction in redundant auditing throughout the aerospace industry. Magnaplate’s certificate can be found here.

We are registered by Intertek as meeting the requirements of AS9100:D and ISO 9001:2015. ISO 9001:2015 details requirements for a company’s quality management system, and that the organization meets and assures conformance to customer, statutory and regulatory requirements. The company must also strive for continuous performance improvement and customer satisfaction.

We are registered by Intertek as meeting the requirements of AS9100:D. This quality management system is for the aviation, space and defense industries, which require the highest levels of quality and performance from their vendors. AS9100 certification ensures that an organization has the proper quality management systems in place to do business with the aerospace sector. Download Magnaplate’s certificates for ISO 9001:2015 and AS9100:D here.