Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some commonly asked questions relating to Magnaplate’s capabilities, technical specifications and industry standards. Reach out to us at info@magnaplate.com if you do not find the answer to your question, and we will get right back to you!

Ordering

What is Magnaplate’s standard lead time?

Our standard lead time is 15 business days. Please note: When volume is very high, lead times may be extended.

Do you offer expedited processing?

Our expedited processing options are three days at a 100% surcharge, six days at 75% and nine days at 50%; all on a first-come, first-served basis. Check with your sales team member or customer service for availability.

Is there a minimum processing charge?

Our MPC is $325, one of the lowest in the industry! We also add on a small environmental/compliance surcharge for invoices up to $1,000: $15; $1,001 to $5,000: $25; $5,001 to $10,000: $35 and $10,001 or more: $45.

Which credit cards do you accept?

We accept Visa, Mastercard and American Express. There is a 4.25% processing charge on all credit card transactions. Click here to pay online.

Surface Treatments

Anodizing

What is Type III Hard Anodizing?

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.

What are the value-added benefits of choosing Magnaplate proprietary anodizing solutions?

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.

What if I have a multi-part assembly?

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.

How will the shapes or edges of my part affect anodizing quality?

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.

Should I be concerned about hydrogen embrittlement on my titanium 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.

Do your anodize-based coatings comply with any military or industrial specifications?

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.

Are Magnaplate anodizing solutions FDA compliant?

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

What are the cost considerations?

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.

Capabilities

Does Magnaplate coat large parts?

Yes, our tank sizes exceed typical industry standards. Take a look at these specific coatings for more information.

  • Electroless nickel: The largest capacity on our electroless nickel line is 22 by 2.9 by 2.5 feet, with a weight capacity of four tons. This line is set up for mid-phos nickel that can be applied to ferrous, non-ferrous and stainless steel alloys. The maximum capacity of our high-phos line is 7.9 by 2.9 by 3 feet. It can accommodate ferrous, most non-ferrous and stainless steel, with a two-ton weight capacity. We can process aluminum parts that are 3.9 by 1.8 by 3.4 feet.
  • Anodizing: We can process parts with Anodize Type III, Classes 1 and 2. We have the capacity to anodize aluminum that is 14 by 2.5 by 4.3 feet, with a weight capacity of two tons.
  • Titanium anodizing: We can anodize titanium that is 7 feet by 28 inches by 3 feet, with a weight capacity of one-half ton.
  • Magnesium anodizing: We can anodize magnesium that is 42 by 28 by 36 inches, with a weight capacity of one-half ton.
  • Polymer coatings: We can process parts for polymer coatings up to 18 by 8 by 6 feet, depending on the type of coating and part configuration. These processes have a weight limit of 4,500 pounds.
  • Thermal Spray coatings: We can process parts up to 20 by 10 by 10 feet, depending on the type of coating and part configuration. These processes also have a weight limit of 4,500 pounds.

Certifications

Are Magnaplate coatings FDA approved?

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.”

Are Magnaplate coatings REACH and RoHS compliant?

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

  • What is REACH? A regulation of the European Union, it stands for Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemicals. REACH was adopted on June 1, 2007, to improve the protection of the environment and human health from the risks that can be posed by chemicals.
  • What is RoHS? It is based on the European Union’s 2002/95/EC directive for the Restriction of the Use of certain Hazardous Substances in Electrical and Electronic Equipment. To be in compliance with this directive, products cannot exceed the allowable amounts of the following restricted materials: lead, mercury, cadmium, hexavalent chromium, polybrominated biphenyls (PBB) and polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDE), with some limited exemptions.
Does Magnaplate have Nadcap certification?

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.

Is Magnaplate ISO certified?

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.

Does Magnaplate comply with AS9100?

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.

Federal and Military Specifications

For help with any spec callouts, please contact us at info@magnaplate.com for assistance. You might find this information on some federal and military specifications useful:

AMS 2404: Plating, electroless nickel

This specification covers the requirements for electroless nickel deposited on various materials. Electroless nickel has been typically used to provide a uniform build-up on intricate shapes, to improve wear and/or corrosion resistance, or to improve solderability on or for selected materials, but usage is not limited to such applications.

AMS 2488: Anodic treatment — titanium and titanium alloys solution pH 13 or higher

This specification establishes the engineering requirements for producing the anodic coating on titanium and titanium alloys and the properties of the coating. These coatings have been used typically as a lubricating and anti-galling coating for elevated temperature forming, as an isolating film for increased resistance to galvanic corrosion, to provide improved wear resistance and as a pretreatment for the application of solid film lubricants. Canadize® complies with Type 2 as an anti-galling coating.

AMS 2469: Hard anodic coating on aluminum and aluminum alloys

This specification establishes the requirements for a hard anodic coating on aluminum and aluminum alloys. Tufram® coatings meet the requirements of AMS2469.

AMS 2482: Hard anodic coating on aluminum alloys PTFE-impregnated or codeposited

This specification establishes the requirements for a hard aluminum oxide coating, impregnated or co-deposited with polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) on aluminum alloys. Several coatings within the Tufram® family meet the requirements of AMS 2482 Type 1.

ASTM B733: Autocatalytic (electroless) nickel-phosphorus coatings on metal

This specification covers requirements for autocatalytic (electroless) nickel-phosphorus coatings applied from aqueous solutions to metallic products for engineering (functional) uses.

MIL-PRF-8625: Anodic coatings for aluminum and aluminum alloys

This specification covers the requirements for six types and two classes of electrolytically formed anodic coatings on aluminum and aluminum alloys for non-architectural applications. Tufram® complies and exceeds the requirements for Type III Class 1 & 2 of MIL-PRF-8625.

MIL-DTL-5541: Chemical conversion coatings on aluminum

This specification covers chemical conversion coatings formed by the reaction of chemical conversion materials with the surfaces of aluminum and aluminum alloys.

MIL-DTL-5002: Surface treatments and inorganic coatings

This specification covers the requirements for cleaning, surface treatment and application of inorganic coatings for metallic surfaces of weapons systems parts.

MIL-A-63576: Aluminum oxide coatings, lubricative

This specification covers the requirements for an electrochemical process for building a lubricative anodic coating on aluminum and aluminum alloys. The unsealed anodic coating is impregnated with polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) or coated with a resin-bonded materials containing PTFE.

MIL-C-26074: Coatings, electroless nickel coatings, electroless nickel

This specification covers the requirements for electroless (autocatalytic chemical reduction) deposition of nickel-phosphorous alloy coatings on metal and composite surfaces.

MIL-PRF-46010: Lubricant, solid film, heat cured, corrosion inhibiting

This specification establishes the requirements for a corrosion-inhibiting heat-cured solid-film lubricant that is intended to reduce wear and prevent galling, corrosion andseizure of metals. Several of our coatings comply with MIL-PRF-46010.

MIL-M-45202: Magnesium alloy, anodize treatment

This specification covers the requirements for equipment, materials, and procedures to be used in anodic treatments for magnesium base alloys for the purpose of increasing their corrosion resistance or for producing surfaces suitable for the application of a protective organic finish.

Need Additional Help?

Our application engineers are ready to help you select and customize the best surface treatment for your application.

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