Coloring titanium with different anodizing voltages - GIF and photo

[Jon]

Coloring titanium with different anodizing voltages.






Previously:

Slow motion linear friction welding of titanium - GIF and video
Forging titanium - GIF and video
Scalpel Jones everyday carry titanium scalpel Kickstarter - video and photo

[11thhourfabrication]

Hi
Does this type of process also work on aluminum or is the type of salt used in the liquid part of it?

Thanks

[desbromilow]

it's to do with the titanium. the thickness of the oxide layer acts as a filter for particular wavelengths of light - thereby producing the colour you see. The differing voltage level results in different oxide thickness. The liquid just needs to be conductive, but most people use TSP so it also degreases the titanium to promote an even oxide layer.

[11thhourfabrication]

it's to do with the titanium. the thickness of the oxide layer acts as a filter for particular wavelengths of light - thereby producing the colour you see. The differing voltage level results in different oxide thickness. The liquid just needs to be conductive, but most people use TSP so it also degreases the titanium to promote an even oxide layer.

Hi
Forgot about this. Thanks for the reply. My question was if this process would work with aluminum.

Thanks

[desbromilow]

My question was if this process would work with aluminum.

not exactly, Aluminium oxide layer doesn't filter light the same way because the typical oxide layer doesn't vary in thickness from it's "natural state". Most coloured aluminium items are done by colouring the anodised layer of oxide. Aluminium forms an oxide layer quite fast, so most home anodising setups work on the principle of degreasing the existing oxide layer, applying dyes into the oxide layer, and then sealing the dye in the layer. There are many webpages out there describing how to use fabric dyes to achieve coloured aluminium parts.

HTH,
Des

[tjbuilder]

Looks good where can I get the full process procedures from? Thanks TJ 😊

[blkadder]

I found some DIY instructions for anodizing aluminum.
https://sendcutsend.com/diy-anodizing-in-10-steps/