PASSIVATION treatments :
Enhanced corrosion resistance and coating adhesion for aluminum components
Aluminum passivation, also known as aluminum conversion coating or chemical passivation for aluminum, is an essential surface treatment process designed to enhance corrosion protection, paint adhesion, and overall durability of aluminum components.
At Electropoli, we provide advanced aluminum passivation services, offering environmentally responsible solutions.
Operation – Description of the process
Our aluminum passivation process involves a controlled chemical conversion of the metal surface, forming a thin and stable protective oxide layer.
Range of aluminium passivation
Our Aluminum Passivation Portfolio includes :
- Surtec 650
- Alodine 2040
Why choose Our aluminium passication ?
Naturally strengthens the metal’s resistance to oxidation without altering its properties.
A lightweight, durable, and environmentally friendly solution
Looking for a specific service
Whether you are searching for aluminum passivation, functional coatings for industrial components, or decorative aluminum passivation finishes, our technical teams can design tailor-made aluminum passivation treatment services adapted to your performance and compliance needs.
Access our customized aluminum passivation solutions
Need technical support
Are you developing a new component, validating specifications, or facing a technical challenge?
Our aluminum passivation experts are at your disposal to study your needs and create the right aluminum passivation solution
OUR OTHER TREATMENTS
Painting
Aluminum passivation
Multi treatments
Finishing
FAQ
What are the main advantages of using chromate free aluminum passivation (like TCP based or zirconium/titaniumbased processes such as Surtec 650 or Alodine 2040) compared to traditional hexavalent chromate conversion coatings in terms of corrosion protection, paint adhesion, and environmental compliance (ROHS/REACH)?
Aluminium passivation without hexavalent chromium provides effective corrosion protection while meeting current environmental requirements. It ensures good adhesion of paint systems and provides a reliable base for industrial, aeronautical and electronic applications.
Compared to hexavalent chromium treatments, these solutions comply with RoHS and REACH regulations and do not contain any substances classified as hazardous. They are now widely used as sustainable alternatives, with performance levels adapted to modern requirements, although protection levels can be defined on a case-by-case basis depending on the exposure environment and customer specifications.
Does your aluminum passivation process, specifically treatments like Alodine 2040, improve the surface for welding or adhesive bonding on aluminum alloys, and how does it compare to an untreated surface?
Aluminium passivation treatments without hexavalent chromium, such as Alodine 2040, improve the surface condition for bonding by ensuring a clean, stable and chemically homogeneous surface, which is conducive to good adhesive adhesion compared to an untreated surface.
However, for welding, these treatments must generally be removed locally before the operation, as they are not intended to be welded directly. Their main role remains corrosion protection and surface preparation, not welding itself.
The choice of treatment therefore depends on the assembly process and the functional requirements of the application.
What military specifications (e.g., MIL-DTL-5541 Type II, Class 1A or Class 3) can your aluminum conversion coating services meet, and what does this mean in terms of performance (corrosion resistance vs. electrical conductivity)?
Our hexavalent chromium-free aluminium conversion treatments can meet the requirements of MIL-DTL-5541 Type II, according to the classes defined by customer specifications.
Class 1A is preferred when corrosion resistance is a priority, particularly for parts exposed to harsh environments.
Class 3 is used when electrical conductivity is required, for example for grounding or electrical continuity applications, with an appropriate level of corrosion protection.
The choice of class therefore depends on the desired balance between corrosion protection and electrical performance, as well as the functional requirements of the application.
How critical is the surface preparation and cleaning of aluminum parts before applying a passivation or conversion coating like Surtec 650, and what methods do you employ to ensure an optimal surface?
Surface preparation is a critical step in ensuring the effectiveness and reproducibility of an aluminium conversion treatment such as Surtec 650.
It involves thorough cleaning and degreasing, followed by controlled activation or stripping, in order to remove contaminants and achieve a uniform surface. These steps directly affect the corrosion resistance, adhesion and stability of the applied treatment.
The preparation sequence is adapted to the aluminium alloy, the initial surface condition and the performance requirements defined by the customer.
Can your aluminum passivation treatments be applied to various aluminum alloys (e.g., 6000 series, 7000 series, cast aluminum), and are there any limitations or differences in performance based on the alloy type?
Yes. Our aluminium passivation treatments can be applied to a wide range of alloys, including the 6000 and 7000 series and cast aluminium.
However, the behaviour and performance of the treatment may vary depending on the composition of the alloy and its metallurgical condition. Surface preparation and treatment parameters are therefore adapted to ensure corrosion protection and adhesion in accordance with functional requirements.
The final performance is defined according to the alloy, the exposure environment and customer specifications.
