Looking for anodizing supplier

[dstaley]

Hey guys,
I occasionally make parts in my home garage for my hotrods, and recently I made a few smallish parts that I would like to have anodized. After researching the process, I'm not sure I want to deal with the chemicals as I don't need it that often and my garage storage space is limited and the garage is unheated. I spent quite a while searching on this forum, but found a lot more results than I could really digest, and didn't find much in the way of people or reputable shops taking work. We don't seem to have anyone in my local area.

Who are the favorite go-to guys or shops that could do these without requiring me to take out a mortgage on the house?

Here are pictures of the parts I want to have done:

[dstaley]

A couple more pictures...

[dstaley]

The last two pictures:

[Harvey Melvin Richards]

It might help to know where you are located.

[morehelium]

Very pretty parts! The steel insert will need to be removed before anodizing though.

Chris

[RWO]

This company can do just about anything you could want including hard anodizing. They routinely deal with hobbyists. They did excellent work for me.

http://www.usanodizing.com/index.htm

RWO

[dstaley]

Oops, sorry, I'm in Peoria, IL.

Yes, the insert will have to come out. Good point, I must not forget to remove it or the dowel that's between the mated halves of the lower bracket.

Thank you RWO, I'll check them out!

[dstaley]

US Anodizing seems to be limited to firearms only, so they may not work out for this project. Thank you for the suggestion (and the compliment) though!

[Harvey Melvin Richards]

I use these guys, http://www.qualityplating.com/, however they are in Salt Lake City, so it might be more shipping than you want.

[lynnl]

US Anodizing seems to be limited to firearms only, so they may not work out for this project. Thank you for the suggestion (and the compliment) though!

I can't see why they'd care what the end use is.

On their "Services" tab they display this blurb:
"At US Anodizing we can provide finishing services to any part, component, or accessory that is made of aluminum or steel alloy. We provide the following services: " ....blah, blah...

Tho perhaps by "...any part, component, or accessory..." they mean "if it's firearm related." Worth trying anyway. Nothing to lose by asking.

[macona]

I just sent out a bunch of parts to Pioneer Metal Finishing. Minimum batch is $55. They have several locations across the country.

[dstaley]

I just sent out a bunch of parts to Pioneer Metal Finishing. Minimum batch is $55. They have several locations across the country.

Ouch, minimum charge is now $93 according to Jenny. I'm not sure I can justify quite that much (plus shipping).

[bobw53]

Are you looking for "pretty" or for corrosion resistance?

Alodine/chromic conversion coating is pretty cheap and easy. Apparently you can even get it in some colors now. Just a simple dip, it is an acid, but its pretty weak, stick your hand in it, not a big deal, I wouldn't drink it though. Comes in a powder, mix with water, dip your parts in for a bit, done.

Caswell plating. They might have what you are looking for. They've got all kinds of good stuff, for the little guy.

[Toolguy]

Anodizing, Plating etc.

I've been doing business with Incertec, formerly Spec Plating for several years and always get fast service and quality results. www.INCERTEC.com

[dstaley]

Are you looking for "pretty" or for corrosion resistance?

Alodine/chromic conversion coating is pretty cheap and easy. Apparently you can even get it in some colors now. Just a simple dip, it is an acid, but its pretty weak, stick your hand in it, not a big deal, I wouldn't drink it though. Comes in a powder, mix with water, dip your parts in for a bit, done.

Caswell plating. They might have what you are looking for. They've got all kinds of good stuff, for the little guy.

Umm, both- I'm fine with the as-machined finish, but I'd like to preserve it. I'm not looking to add any color. Caswell has been my go-to vendor for powder, I'm a happy customer. I'll check into the alodine/chromic conversion coating. Thanks!

I'll check into Incertec too. Thanks!