Frequently Asked Questions

What is anodizing?

Anodizing is an electrochemical process used to enhance the surface of metals, particularly aluminum. During anodizing, an oxide layer is formed on the metal's surface through the application of an electric current in an acidic electrolyte solution. This oxide layer provides several benefits, including increased corrosion resistance, improved durability, and the ability to add color or decorative finishes. Anodizing is commonly used in various industries, including automotive, aerospace, electronics, and architectural applications, to improve the appearance and performance of metal components.

What are the benefits of anodizing?

1. Corrosion Resistance: Anodizing creates a protective oxide layer on the metal surface, enhancing its resistance to corrosion from environmental factors such as moisture and chemicals. 2. Durability: The oxide layer formed during anodizing is harder than the underlying metal, providing increased durability and resistance to wear and abrasion. 3. Aesthetic Enhancement: Anodizing allows for the application of color and decorative finishes to metal surfaces, enhancing their appearance and visual appeal. 4. Electrical Insulation: Anodized coatings can provide electrical insulation properties, making them suitable for use in electronic components and applications where electrical conductivity needs to be controlled. 5. Non-Toxic and Environmentally Friendly: Anodizing is a non-toxic process that does not produce harmful by-products, making it environmentally friendly compared to other surface treatment methods. 6. Thermal Stability: Anodized coatings exhibit good thermal stability, making them suitable for applications exposed to high temperatures without degradation

What's the difference between type II and type III anodizing?

Type II anodizing creates a thinner oxide layer, suitable for general purposes. Type III anodizing produces a thicker, harder layer, ideal for high-wear applications

Can an anodized coating be stripped?

Yes, anodizing can be stripped from a metal surface. There are several methods for stripping anodized coatings, including chemical stripping, mechanical abrasion, and electrolytic methods

How does anodizing differ from cerakote or powder coating

Anodizing: Crafted through electrochemical process, forms protective oxide layer for corrosion resistance. Cerakote: Precision spray-on ceramic coating, ensuring unparalleled scratch and chemical resilience. Powder Coating: Dry powder artistry, cured to deliver enduring, decorative elegance.

Does the alloy affect the anodizing color?

Yes, the type of alloy used can significantly affect the anodizing process and the properties of the resulting coating. Different alloys may anodize more easily or produce coatings with different colors or properties.

Can I anodize a casted material?

Yes, castings can be anodized. However, due to the challenges associated with working with casted materials, we may suggest alternative processes to ensure your expectations are met.

Do we offer polishing services?

Yes, we offer polishing services. We utilize a series of media and tumblers to achieve a polished finish on materials. However, please note that we do not offer traditional polishing techniques.

Do we or will anodizing correct dents, dings, or scratches?

No, we do not nor does anodizing fix dents, dings, or scratches on a metal surface. Anodizing is a surface treatment process that forms a protective oxide layer on the metal, enhancing its corrosion resistance and durability. However, it does not repair physical damage such as dents, dings, or scratches. These imperfections should be addressed through appropriate repair or restoration methods before anodizing to achieve the desired finish

Can you color match anodized aluminum?

Yes, we can color match your aluminum parts! We offer a range of primary and specialty color options. Primary colors include clear, black, blue, purple, gold, red, and hard natural (6061 - grey and 7075 - honeybadger). Specialty colors include flat dark earth (FDE), brown camo, orange, grey blue, gunmetal, OD green, copper, and pink. Please note that while we strive to achieve the best match possible, non-like materials such as 7075 and 6061 may not allow for a perfect match due to differences in material content.

What can I do to ensure the best color match possible?

Just as there are multiple shades to each color, so are customer expectations for their specific finish. It is highly recommended that you include a sample piece to color match, as pictures do not always provide the best examples. Please note that reworks may incur additional fees.

What is masking or plugging a part?

"Masking or plugging parts" refers to the process of covering specific areas of a component to protect them during various finishing processes, such as painting or coating, to ensure those areas remain unaffected.

Do you offer masking or plugging services?

While Vegas Metal Finishing typically doesn't offer this service due to its time-consuming nature, we do have the capability to provide it upon request. However, clients should be aware that opting for masking or plugging incurs additional expenses. For further details on this service and associated costs, clients are advised to consult Vegas Metal Finishing directly.

Can I walk in without an appointment?

Yes, we do accept walk-in customers! However, to ensure that one of our anodizing experts is available to assist you, it is best to schedule an appointment ahead of time. The best point of contact is via email at [email protected]. Our facility is located at 55 W Mayflower Ave, North Las Vegas, NV 89030.

What is the standard lead time?

Our typical lead time is 1-2 weeks, but varies based on our current production. It’s best to contact us beforehand.

Is there a minimum number of parts?

No, we handle jobs of all shapes and sizes. However, minimal parts may incur a minimum rack fee for production in low volume. We always suggest including more parts, as you will receive per-part or tiered pricing for larger orders

What are rack marks and can they be avoided?

Anodizing rack marks are potential marks left behind on metal parts from contact points with the anodizing rack during processing. Although we strive to rack parts in a way that minimizes noticeable points, it's critical for the anodizing process.

How thick is hard coat?

Nominal is .002 mils +/- 20%.

How do you check thickness?

We use DeFelsko, Sper Scientific, and Oakton calibrated test meters as well as having an onsite lab to check thickness.

Do you offer tiered pricing?

Yes, we offer tiered pricing. Please contact us for more information.

HAZMAT Fee

All invoices are subject to a 10% environmental fee.

Do you offer and expediting service?

Yes, this service costs $200 and ensures your parts will be turned around in 2-3 business days, unless otherwise coordinated.

What if my parts are currently cerakoted and I want them to anodized?

If your components are presently cerakoted, please note that the coating will need to be removed to prepare them for the resurfacing process. Our cerakote removal process involves a meticulous abrasive method. While labor-intensive, it's a crucial step to ensure your components are safely prepared for the next phase.

What if my parts are currently anodized and I want them to anodized?

If your components are presently anodized, they must undergo a chemical stripping process to remove the existing anodized finish, allowing the parts to be prepared for the resurfacing process. Without this crucial step, resurfacing cannot take place.

What does RAW mean?

"Raw machined parts" typically refer to components that have undergone the machining process but have not yet received any additional surface treatment or finishing. These parts are in their "raw" state, meaning they haven't been anodized, coated, or finished with any protective or decorative layers

What is blasting used for?

1. Surface Cleaning: Blasting effectively removes contaminants, rust, old finishes, and other debris from the surface of aluminum parts. 2. Surface Preparation: The process readies the aluminum surface by creating a slightly more abrasive texture, enhancing its readiness for subsequent coating or finishing applications.

Did you know that Vegas Metal Finishing has more than one blast cabinet? Why you ask?

Vegas Metal Finishing utilizes multiple blast cabinets, each featuring Stainless Steel Shot and Ceramic Bead media options. This adaptability facilitates efficient handling of diverse components, streamlining workflow for various projects and ensuring customized, high-quality finishes that align with our customers' specific expectations.

What is Stainless Steel Shot (SSS) Blast Media used for and how will my parts look like after being blasted?

SSS offers an enhanced aesthetic appeal imparting an aggressive and textured look to the components, adding a visually appealing dimension to the overall appearance of your firearm parts. It's crucial to carefully control the parameters of the stainless steel shot blasting process to achieve the desired surface finish while enhancing the aesthetic appeal of your aluminum firearm components.

What is Ceramic Bead Blast Media used for and how will my parts look like after being blasted?

Ceramic bead media, consisting of small, durable, and hard beads is a specialized abrasive material used in surface finishing processes like shot blasting and peening. Known for its versatility, it achieves uniform, satin-like finishes on various materials, including metals, plastics, and composites. Suitable for delicate parts, it minimizes material removal and finds applications in aerospace, automotive, and electronics industries. Renowned for its recyclability, ceramic bead media delivers consistent results without compromising the dimensional integrity.

Can we prepare small parts?

Yes, we use a 4-gallon tumbler containing rubber pellets and glass impact beads to handle your small parts of all quantities.