Build your own case

[Steve Dunlap]

Be sure to check out the link in the link I posted for more tips on tapping. I try to give links whenever possible as it gives credit where it is due. Also I don't have to type so much.

[Steve Dunlap]

Any suggestions on what I should cover next?

[Marinos]

Finishing ideas/suggestions.

Anodizing ? Painting ? Simple sanding ?

[Steve Dunlap]

Originally Posted by Marinos

Finishing ideas/suggestions.

Anodizing ? Painting ? Simple sanding ?

Anodizing isn't the type of thing you DIY normally, but I will talk about some ideas I had on the subject latter.

You can get a very nice finish by sanding with very fine grit sandpaper and a sanding block. I used to wash my Al parts in the dishwasher after sanding. I used TSP, back when it WAS TSP. Make sure you don't have any of those products that prevent spots on dishes. After the dry cycle, inspect the parts. If you have scratches or gouges in the surface, you can try to place them where they won't show. If that isn't possible, then I suggest painting.

First, fill the defects with automotive body filler (Bondo) or JB weld. Since they are scratches, they should already be rough enough to give good adhesion. For dents you may need to rough the surface with course sandpaper. After the filler dries, sand smooth and wash again.

They are making paints now that stick pretty well to Al, and they may work for you. If you have trouble finding a good Al paint, try to find an etching primer made for Al. You can also buy a chromatic acid solution at many large hardware stores. This works quite well on Al as a surface prep. Always read and follow label directions. Rinse with distilled water and dry quickly. As soon as your part is complete dry, paint the part so new oxide does not form.

I have produced very nice finishes using glass beads in a blast cabinet, but that might not be an option for most of you.

If the surfaces of the parts are defect free, you can get a good finish with sanding alone. Each grit of the sandpaper will give a slightly different finish. Pick one you like.

Another finish I like is wire brushed Al. This can be difficult to get a smooth even finish, but if you don't like the finish, you can brush again or sand. A brushed finish can be painted also, but that covers the brushed finish. Different brush wheels give different finishes. You can test on a scrap piece to see if you like the look.

[MJL21193]

Another finishing option on raw aluminum is the frosted look:

IM000972.JPG

and closer:

IM000981a.JPG

I did this with a random orbit sander loaded with a 100 grit disk. Holding the sander firmly to the surface prevents it from spinning (and creating swirls).
Once it is as even as you would like, clean with acetone or lacquer thinner and spray on 2-3 coats of lacquer.

[Steve Dunlap]

I like that. More input from people is welcome. I doubt I have thought of everything.

[Steve Dunlap]

I should mention that if you use TSP to wash Al pieces, you may not like the look of the finish. This, and things like chromatic acid should only be used on pieces you plan to paint.

[400]

Hi,

while finishing of aluminium and avoiding corrosion, fingerprints etc., I use hard wax for sealing. The surface gets a little bit darker but retains the raw aluminium look.

(What is TSP?)

Marcel

[Steve Dunlap]

Trisodium phosphate - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Try Trisodium Phosphate For a Thorough Clean Before Painting

TSP Trisodium Phosphate heavy duty cleaner

That should get you off to a good understanding of TSP.

[rdf]

Originally Posted by Steve Dunlap

You can get a very nice finish by sanding with very fine grit sandpaper and a sanding block.

Does it result in a long term attractive finish or is some form of sealing required?