Process characteristics of micro-arc oxidation:
Micro-arc oxidation evolved from anodizing but offers many advantages not found in conventional anodizing. The micro-arc oxidation equipment is simpler, the electrolyte is mostly alkaline, and it has minimal environmental impact. The solution temperature can vary over a wide range. The process flow of micro-arc oxidation is simpler and more versatile in material application.
Properties and characteristics of micro-arc oxidation ceramic film:
Micro-arc oxidation surface treatment technology differs from anodic surface oxidation technology, and the ceramic coating formed is far superior in both functionality and performance to anodic oxidation coatings. Depending on the composition of the workpiece material, working fluid, pulse waveform, and process parameters, the ceramic layer on the surface after micro-arc oxidation offers various functionalities and different application ranges, roughly as follows:
1. High hardness, high layer
The ceramic layer formed by micro-arc oxidation has a hardness and wear resistance that can exceed淬火钢、hard alloys. Therefore, in aerospace, aviation, or applications requiring lightweight products, aluminum alloy can be used to manufacture valve sleeves, valve cores, and cylinders for pneumatic and hydraulic servo valves. The ceramic layer generated by surface micro-arc oxidation can be applied to the surface of aluminum alloy components subjected to high-speed movement.
2. Abrasion-resistant surface
Due to the micro-arc oxidation process, a ceramic layer with micropores forms on the material surface, reducing the friction coefficient to 0.06~0.12 when using traditional lubricants. Filling solid lubricants in the micropores further enhances the friction and wear reduction, making it suitable for applications like car and motorcycle pistons, or any scenario requiring a low friction coefficient.
Due to the ceramic coating on the surface, aluminum alloys can withstand high temperatures of up to 800~900°C, even 2000°C in short periods, thus increasing the working temperature for alloys like aluminum, magnesium, and titanium. They are suitable for applications requiring immediate components, such as rockets and cannons.
3. Light Absorption and Light Reflective Surface
Create ceramic layers with varying performance and colors, such as black or white, capable of absorbing or reflecting over 80% of light energy, suitable for solar heat absorbers or heat sinks for electronic components. Colored ceramic surfaces made from aluminum, magnesium, titanium, and their alloys can be used as high-end decorative materials for phone shells, etc.
