The Chromating Process

Chromating, or chromate conversion coatings, are extremely thin chemical coatings that provide a couple of desirable characteristics to the surface of an aluminum part such as:

• Enhanced corrosion resistance
• Enhanced bonding ability
• Electrically conductive

Compared to anodizing, chromating offers a couple of advantages that certain applications may be able to takeadvantage of. For example, since it is not an electrical process, electrical contact does not have to be made with the part. This allows for generally quicker and easier fixturing or even bulk processing, commonly resulting in a less expensive process.