General Anodizing

[lightway]

Several general questions re: the LCD kit
application background ---we design/ build custom optical sensors (cameras) so we are looking for flat black.

1. Is there a need to heat the dye...I find room temp. works well?
2. The value of the supplied sealer (nickel acetate) vs. plain boiling water ( I hate the chemicals!)
3. Will higher current density ( 6 A vs. 4.5 / sq. ft.) reduce anodizing cycle time?
4. need to remove cathodes during perpoids of non-use ( 2 weeks)

Thanks one & all.

[sswee]

A sodium hydroxide etch should give the matte finish you want.

1. Is there a need to heat the dye...I find room temp. works well?

Heat to 140 degrees is recommended for optimum dyeing. If room temp. gives you the effect you want do it but if you start having problems remember that the vendor recommended heating.

2. The value of the supplied sealer (nickel acetate) vs. plain boiling water ( I hate the chemicals!)

I use both methods and haven't been able to see a difference so far.

3. Will higher current density ( 6 A vs. 4.5 / sq. ft.) reduce anodizing cycle time?

By that question I can tell you are not using the 720 rule to anodize. Yes a higher CD will shorten run times. I recommend the 720 rule be used for more consistant results. I have had no problems since I started using it.

4. need to remove cathodes during perpoids of non-use ( 2 weeks)

Its recommended but I don't. I am using lead cathodes. I haven't seen any negative results

Hope this helped. SS