Chromate Conversion
Chromate Conversion is a chemical immersion process. During the process, aluminum oxide and chromic oxide is produced in accordance with the conversion reaction shown below:
All chromate conversion coatings use chromic acid in the form of its soluble salts. During the process, a thin, gel-like film is produced on the aluminum surface. Chromate is an excellent pretreatment for paint or adhesives since it greatly enhances the product's ability to form a bond with the aluminum. It is frequently used on electrical and electronic equipment because it provides increased corrosion resistance while remaining electrically conductive.
The films produced by this process vary in color, depending on the aluminum alloy being treated, surface conditions, and the type of chromate. Alpha Metal Finishing currently offers both clear and gold Chromate. Our gold Chromate Conversion process conforms to MIL-C-5541E Class 1A
TCP - WEEE and RoHS compliant Trivalent Chromate
Alpha Metal Finishing also offers a Trivalent Chromate Process (TCP) that complies with the European Union's directive 2002/95/EC on the Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) and European Union's directive 2002/96/EC on Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE). This chromate conversion process is free from hexavalent chromium and complies with the requirements of MIL-C-5541E for all classes when applied to most aluminium alloys except the 2000 series. Trivalent Chromate is almost clear with a slight bluish tint.
Benefits of Chromate Conversion
- Increased Corrosion Resistance
- Good Bonding Surface for Paint & Adhesives
- Electrically Conductive
- Inexpensive
Contact us for more information on how we can serve your aluminum finishing needs.
Alpha Metal Finishing is located in Dexter, MI, eight miles west of Ann Arbor, Michigan. Map/Directions
Leaders in Anodizing and Chromate Conversion Services
Phone: 734.426.2855 Fax: 734.426.2945 sales@alphametal.com