• Chromic Acid Anodize is a vital process in providing additional surface protection to aircraft components. The process is a rapid, controlled oxidation of the aluminum surface. Aluminum, in its natural state, has a very high resistance to atmospheric corrosion due to its thin layer of oxide. This film is thickened using the Chromic Acid Anodize process. When finished, the component will have a gray, corrosion resistant coating.

• While the process is very similar to Chromic Acid Anodize, different customers require different types of treatments. Sulphuric Acid Anodizing provides the same level of protection to the aluminum surfaces as Chromic Acid Anodizing but conforms to different process specifications.

• Boric / Sulfuric Acid Anodize is a direct replacement for Chromic Acid Anodizing. It provides very similar protection properties while avoiding the chromates which are environmentally insensitive

• Aluminum chromate conversion coatings (often referred to as chemical film or alodine or irridite) are used where maximum protection from corrosion is required. Most often it is used on surfaces that are to be painted, a nut plate is to be bonded, or in a small area that is going to be left unpainted. In some cases, it used where low electrical resistance is required such as electrical bond areas