Resources & Insights

Industry Insights & Expertise.

Expert guidance on metal finishing processes, industry best practices, and technical specifications

The Power of Protection: Black Oxide Processing at Aerospace Metals

In the world of precision manufacturing, metal finishing isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about performance, protection, and reliability. At Aerospace Metals, we specialize in delivering high-quality surface finishes that not only look exceptional but also enhance the durability and functionality of your components. One process that continues to stand out for

Learn More »

Bright Dip Anodizing for Hydraulic Parts: Performance, Precision, and Protection

In industries where hydraulic systems are at the heart of critical operations—such as aerospace, defense, heavy machinery, and automotive—the performance of every component matters. Hydraulic parts are exposed to extreme pressure, heat, and corrosive environments, requiring a finish that not only enhances durability but also maintains dimensional accuracy and reliability.

Learn More »

Hardcoat Anodizing in the Aerospace Industry – and Beyond

Among the many industries who benefit from hardcoat anodizing, we’ve noticed an increase in demand within the aerospace and data center sectors. In aerospace manufacturing, precision and durability aren’t optional—they’re essential. Every component, from the smallest gear to the heaviest landing gear assembly, must perform under immense stress and harsh

Learn More »

Bright Dip Anodizing: The Shimmering Finish The Customers Love

When manufacturers need aluminum finishing that delivers both durability and eye-catching aesthetics, many turn to bright dip anodizing services. Unlike standard anodizing, bright dip creates a highly reflective, mirror-like surface that makes aluminum parts stand out without compromising on strength or protection. At Aerospace Metals LLC, we specialize in providing

Learn More »

Why Chromic Acid Anodizing Is the Secret to Aerospace Durability

When you think about what makes airplanes, spacecraft, and all things aerospace tick, you might picture engines, wings, and cutting-edge technology. But there’s something less glamorous, though equally important, that keeps these systems running smoothly: the surface treatments that protect parts from wear and tear. One of the unsung heroes

Learn More »

The Essential Guide to Black Oxide in the Metal Finishing Industry

In the ever-evolving metal finishing industry, the importance of ensuring both functionality and aesthetic appeal in components cannot be overstated. One method that stands out for its durability and versatility is black oxide treatment. This process goes beyond mere cosmetic enhancement; it is a meticulously executed technique that offers a

Learn More »

Cadmium Plating: The Unsung Hero of Metal Protection

When it comes to metal protection, many often think of rustproof paints or high-tech coatings, but there’s an unsung hero in the world of metal finishing that’s been quietly making a significant impact for decades: cadmium plating. This process has been a cornerstone in various industries, offering unique benefits that

Learn More »

Bright Dip Anodizing: Elevating Aluminum to New Heights

When it comes to enhancing the durability and aesthetics of aluminum, few processes can match the effectiveness of anodizing. Among the various anodizing techniques, bright dip anodizing stands out for its ability to produce a mirror-like finish that not only looks stunning but also offers significant protection against corrosion and

Learn More »

The Gleam of Gold and Silver Plating: Benefits and Processes

In the world of metal finishing, gold and silver plating are not just aesthetic enhancements; they are strategic choices that can significantly impact the performance and longevity of metal components. Whether you’re in the aerospace, electronics, or any other industry requiring precision and durability, understanding the benefits and processes of

Learn More »

Understanding Hardcoat Anodizing: A Key Player in Metal Finishing

Hardcoat anodizing is a specialized electrochemical process that enhances the surface properties of aluminum and its alloys. This method is widely recognized for producing a thicker, more durable oxide layer compared to standard anodizing. The process involves immersing the aluminum in an acidic electrolyte bath and applying an electrical current.

Learn More »

Bright Dip Anodizing: Potential Issues and How to Resolve to Them

In the realm of metal finishing processes, bright dip anodizing stands out as a versatile and effective technique that not only provides enhanced corrosion resistance and durability but also offers a visually appealing finish. This specialized anodizing method involves immersing metal parts in a chemical bath to create a glossy,

Learn More »

Electroless Nickel Plating: Enhancing Metals for Diverse Applications

Electroless nickel plating is a popular surface coating technique used across various industries to enhance the properties of metal substrates. This process involves the deposition of a nickel-phosphorus alloy onto a surface without the need for an external electrical current, making it an efficient and cost-effective method for achieving high-quality

Learn More »

The Luminosity of Nickel Chrome Plating: A Closer Look

Nickel chrome plating is a versatile surface finishing technique that offers a range of benefits across various industries. This electroplating process involves depositing a layer of nickel followed by a layer of chromium onto a metal object, creating a protective and aesthetically pleasing finish. Let’s delve deeper into this fascinating

Learn More »

Enhancing Metal Finishing with Bright Dip Anodizing

Understanding What Causes Gassing in the Bright Dip Anodizing Process In the realm of metal finishing, Bright Dip Anodizing stands out as a sophisticated process that not only enhances the aesthetics of metal surfaces but also provides functional benefits. However, challenges such as gassing can sometimes hinder the outcome of

Learn More »

Bright Dip Anodizing: Unlocking Brilliance and Durability

Bright Dip Anodizing is a specialized metal finishing process that enhances the appearance and durability of aluminum components. Whether it’s achieving a glossy finish on architectural structures or enhancing the visual appeal of intricate aerospace parts, bright dip anodizing offers a range of benefits that make it a popular choice

Learn More »

What is Silver Plating?

Silver plating is a process in which a thin layer of silver is deposited onto the surface of an object or substrate. It involves electrochemically or chemically coating the object with a layer of silver to enhance its appearance, improve corrosion resistance, increase conductivity, or provide other desired properties.  Aerospace

Learn More »
Aerospace Metals- Your Trusted Partner for Hardcoat Anodizing

Aerospace Metals: Your Trusted Partner for Hardcoat Anodizing

Hard coat anodizing, also known as Type III anodizing or hard anodizing, is an electrochemical process that produces a thick and durable oxide layer on the surface of aluminum and its alloys. This process involves immersing the aluminum part in an electrolyte bath and applying a direct current to form

Learn More »
Aerospace Metals has a National Footprint

Aerospace Metals has a National Footprint

We are thrilled to share some exciting updates this month at Aerospace Metals. We have expanded our capabilities, introduced new processes, and strengthened our partnership with Sonaca Group, a renowned leader in metal finishing. With these developments, we can now offer an enhanced range of services to our valued clients.

Learn More »

Bright Dip Anodizing: Enhancing Metal Surfaces with Brilliance

Bright dip anodizing is a specialized surface treatment process that offers numerous benefits for enhancing the appearance and durability of metal components. Let’s explore the advantages of bright dip anodizing, delve into the process itself, and highlight why customers should choose our services for their bright dip anodizing needs. Benefits

Learn More »
Electroless Nickel Plating

Electroless Nickel Plating

Aerospace Metals offers electroless nickel plating which is a process of depositing a layer of nickel alloy onto a surface without using an external electrical current. This is achieved by a chemical reaction between the substrate surface and the plating solution. The electroless nickel plating process typically involves the following

Learn More »
Hardcoat Anodizing including colors

Hardcoat Anodizing including colors

Hardcoat Anodizing is well sought after in the metal finishing industry. You may wonder what makes this process so desirable? And why do customers love using Aerospace Metals for their hard coat needs? Hardcoat Anodizing aluminum is popular because it allows the aluminum to maintain their advantageous qualities while maintaining

Learn More »

Black Oxide

Aerospace Metals is pleased to offer black oxide processing. Black Oxide is a conversion coating for ferrous materials, stainless steel, copper as well as copper based alloys, powdered metals, zinc, and silver solder which results in a black color. Black oxide is used to achieve mild corrosion resistance. It is

Learn More »

The Benefits and Allure of Gold Plating

When you think of gold you may think of glamor, allure, enchantment. Gold contains a variety of unique properties that make it ideally suited for a wide array of plating processes – including a significant value from an electroplating perspective. You may wonder why should gold be plated rather than

Learn More »

Fabrication and Machining Capabilities

Aerospace Metals offers both  Fabrication and CNC machining.  In conjunction with LMI Aerospace, we now can offer the ability to manufacture and finish multiple alloys. Sheet Metal Fabrication: Aerospace Metals delivers a broad range of sheet metal fabrication capabilities. This ranges from a single piece component to complex numerous-quantity orders.

Learn More »

C.A.R.C. Painting – Why You Should Choose Aerospace Metals

Chemical Agent Resistant Coating, otherwise known as C.A.R.C, is a matte-finish type of painting. This resistant coating is a near–indestructible automotive grade polyurethane. It is an engineered product deriving from the reaction of pretreatments, primers, and top-coats combined. The chemical agent resistant coating provides an aesthetically pleasing finish in addition

Learn More »

What is Bright Dip Anodizing?

Greetings! Aerospace Metals proudly specializes in Bright Dip Anodizing. Our company exceeds expectations with this aesthetically pleasing finish – ideal for use in various cosmetic applications in products such as automotive and machine parts, aerospace and defense, appliances, extrusions, architectural trim, light reflectors, and more. AM offers a wide selection

Learn More »

The Advantages of Zinc Plating

[et_pb_section admin_label=”section”] [et_pb_row admin_label=”row”] [et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text”]Zinc Plating is an extensively used coating primarily for the corrosion protection it provides for steel parts and products. Zinc plating is also known in the industry as galvanization and it provides an exceptional base for painting. It is often used for stamping, fasteners,

Learn More »

Differences Between Aluminum Alloys and the Best for Anodizing

When it comes to aluminum alloys, most grades provide good appearance and corrosion resistance. However, to achieve optimal results, the anodizing process is necessary. Anodizing increases the amount of aluminum oxide on the surface of an aluminum substrate. This increases the part/component’s ability to withstand corrosion. It can also change

Learn More »

OEM Supply Chain Solutions for Metals Fabrication & CNC Machining

Like many businesses, supply chain problems have been disrupting operations for many months now. Most OEMs are having a tough time getting component parts from their CNC machine shops & metal fabrication shops. However, Aerospace Metals has an abundant supply of these shops to keep your manufacturing operations running smoothly.  

Learn More »

Anodize Racking

Anodize racking is a popular way to cost-effectively electroplate parts in large numbers with minimal gaps in coverage. If you didn’t know, anodizing is another name for electroplating. It involves using one metal to coat or design another. Racking is also called jigging and it’s one of the most important

Learn More »

The Very Versatile Hardcoat Anodize Process

This month, I’d like to explore the different types and colors of hardcoat anodize. This popular choice for many end-users features a dense aluminum oxide anodic coating which is applied after converting a cleaned and deoxidized aluminum alloy component into an oxide film. This is completed by using a proper

Learn More »

Top Quality Corrosion Protection with Electroless Nickel Plating

If you are seeking to maintain uniformity in your plating application, Electroless Nickel Plating (ENP) is an excellent option to consider. This process allows you to maintain inside dimensions and irregular shapes for jobs that require uniform assembly tolerances. Electroless nickel plating is an engineered finish that’s often used to

Learn More »

Managing White Spots on Metal Finishes

Customers ask me, “Why do white spots happen on anodized parts?” The quick answer is those white spots are corrosive cells found beneath the anodized coating. The unfinished metal was probably not prepared properly and most likely, the coating applied was not thick enough. When this happens, moisture penetrates the

Learn More »

The Universal Appeal of Zinc & Zinc Nickel Plating

Zinc plating is considered to be the go-to metal plating process throughout the world. Industry professionals know that’s because zinc coatings offer superior corrosion inhibiting benefits and it provides aesthetically pleasing finishes at a reasonable price. In fact, zinc has been electroplated onto parts for over 200 years thanks in

Learn More »

Why Cadmium is the Go-To Option for Many Plating Applications

Cadmium Plating is a coating process that offers many technical benefits. While cadmium is a byproduct of zinc production, it has been used for almost 100 years as an effective protective coating. It has outstanding corrosion resistance in high-salt and low- thickness environments. In fact, Cadmium Electroplating is the optimal

Learn More »

The Many Benefits of Hardcoat Anodizing

Some of my best customers have asked me, “Paul, why is hardcoat anodize a good option for my metal finishing application?” There are actually more than a few good reasons why this is such a popular choice industrywide. Hard anodizing aluminum allows the aluminum to keep the basic advantages of

Learn More »
Why Bright Dip Anodizing is a Smart Choice

Why Bright Dip Anodizing is a Smart Choice

If you want to maximize corrosion resistance while achieving a mirror-like shine on your precision machined parts or standard profiles, then Bright Dip Anodizing is an excellent option. This type of finish is ideal for use in many cosmetic applications. The Type II Anodize finish also provides good corrosion and

Learn More »
Plating of Precious Metals

Plating of Precious Metals

Precious Metals have been used for centuries now for their corrosion resistant properties and aesthetic. They have become essential for the production of engineered systems and “high-tech” devices, especially in the communication and electronic industry sectors. Precious Metals also have widespread applications in the automotive and aerospace industries. These metals

Learn More »

Achieving the Perfect ZINC PLATE

ZINC PLATING IS A WIDELY used coating for the sacrificial corrosion protection of steel. It is used throughout the range of industry, especially on stampings, fasteners and automotive parts. Zinc also provides an excellent base for painting and other coatings. The final product is aesthetically pleasing, typically very bright, and

Learn More »
Which Is Better Aluminum Or Stainless Steel?

Which Is Better Aluminum Or Stainless Steel?

When it comes to comparing metals such as steel and aluminum, both have a very wide range of applications. They are crucial in so many industries, providing parts for cars, planes, rails, pipelines, and bridges, along with thousands of different less prominent uses. They are equally vital for construction as

Learn More »
How To Remove Anodized Aluminum?

How To Remove Anodized Aluminum?

[et_pb_section admin_label=”section”] [et_pb_row admin_label=”row”] [et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text”]Your anodized parts have become stained and worn out, and they need a little touch-up. If you’re thinking about removing the anodized coating from one of your tools, car parts, or bicycle parts, you should have a rundown of all the chemicals and processes

Learn More »
How To Clean Anodized Aluminum?

How To Clean Anodized Aluminum?

You may have already heard about the versatile application of anodized aluminum components across various industries. There are anodized aluminum parts in everything we use on a daily basis, such as our smartphones, bicycles, and kitchen utensils, to more complex objects like firearms, multi-tools, and even window frames. There likely

Learn More »
The Complete Guide To Anodizing Aluminum Parts

The Complete Guide To Anodizing Aluminum Parts

Whether you work in the automotive industry or are an architect designing tall buildings, you’ve heard of the anodizing process before. You may have come across anodized tools as a dentist, or in the business of food preparation equipment. Anodized tools and devices have a wide variety of uses, such

Learn More »
Aluminum Chromate Convers - aerometalsion Coating

What is Aluminum Chromate Conversion Coating?

Chromate conversion coatings on aluminum are also known as yellow Bonderite, Iridite, and Alodine, or Chem Film. They are used for everyday aluminum components, hardware, automotive wheels, heat sinks and aerospace applications (aircraft hulls, side and torsion struts, shock absorbers, flight control systems, and landing gear). Chromate conversion coating is

Learn More »
silver plating services aerospace metals

What is Silver Plating and how it works?

Silver plating is a simple process of coating materials with silver, which is also known as electrolysis. However, despite its easy-to-understand nature, there are a lot of other essential details you should know about silver plating. You need to understand how the process works, it’s benefits, and where it’s best

Learn More »
coating services aerospace metals

What is E-Coating and how it works?

Unbeknownst to many, E-coat is a cross-process between painting and plating. It’s also known as electrophoretic painting process or EPD. In this article, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about E-coat – from its definition, how it’s done, and its benefits, all the way through to where the process

Learn More »
nickel plating services aerospace metals

What Is Nickel Plating?

The technique of nickel plating is also known as nickel electroplating, and it has a wide variety of commercial applications. In this article, we wanted to go a bit deeper and explain what nickel plating is, its benefits, and where it is commonly applied. The Definition of Nickel Plating The

Learn More »
copper plating services aerospace

What Is Copper Plating?

Copper plating is a useful plating process for increasing the solderability of smaller parts, making them more flexible and improving their conductivity, among several other benefits. The process is thus widely used in a wide variety of commercial practices, but what is it precisely? Furthermore, why do you need copper

Learn More »
metal fabrication cnc machining

What is Tin Plating?

Tin is a soft silver-white metal that’s also very flexible. Due to this higher flexibility, tin can be molded and stretched in a wide variety of shapes, all the while remaining whole and without cracking. What’s more, tin is also non-toxic, corrosion-resistant, and highly conductive. Tin plating can thus be

Learn More »

What is Chem Film (Alodine)?

Chem film or Alodine is a chemical conversion coating that’s mostly used to protect aluminum from corrosion. It’s primarily used to passivate aluminum as it protects this metal and serves as a base for paint coatings. It leaves aluminum unaffected, so it’s easier to put paint over it without changing

Learn More »
electro nickel plating services aerospace metals

What is Electroless Nickel Plating?

Electroless nickel plating is a form of alloy treatment. The process was developed to increase resistance and hardness in a metal or plastic, but it can be plated over a wide variety of metals such as stainless steel, aluminum, titanium, mild steels, hardened steel, zinc die-cast, brass, and copper. Electroless

Learn More »
hardcoat anodizing services aerospace metals

What is Hardcoat Anodizing?

Hardcoat anodize or hard anodize is a dense anodic coating of aluminum oxide. There are three types of aluminum anodizing. Type I is chromic acid anodize and has a thickness of 0.0001”. What is often referred to as sulfuric acid anodize are Type II in North America, as named by

Learn More »
cadmium plating services aerospace metals

Cadmium Plating: What Is It and What Are Its Benefits?

Cadmium Plating is the coating process used for corrosion-resistant plating on steel. Cadmium is the soft silvery-white or bluish-gray metal similar to zinc and mercury often used in electric batteries, coatings, pigments, and electroplating. Because of its protective qualities, Cadmium Plating is a preferred coating for components utilized in aircraft

Learn More »
bright dip anodizing aerospace metals

What is Bright Dip Anodizing?

The chemical process called Bright Dip anodizing is used to achieve a shiny, almost mirror finish similar to mechanical polishing. The method is used on aluminum to not only improve aesthetics but to also lengthen the lifespan of the treated aluminum part. Because Bright Dip Anodizing comes in a wide

Learn More »