Mil A 8625
Mil A 8625
I SENSITIVE
MIL-A-8625F
10 September 1993
SUPERSEDING
MIL-A-8625E
25 Apr i1 1988
MILITARY SPECIFICATION
ANODIC COATINGS FOR ALUMINUM ANO ALUMINUM ALLOYS
This spectflcation ts approved for use by all Departments
and Agencies of the Department of Defense.
1. SCOPE
1. 1 Scope. Thl s specifl cation covers the requ1 rements for six types and
two classes of electrolytically formed anod1 c coatings on aluminum and
aluminum alloys for non-architectural applications <see 6.1>.
1.2 Classification. The anodic coating Types and Classes covered by this
speciftcatton are as speciffed heretn <see 6.2 and 6.21>:
1.2 .1 ilill
Type I - Chromic acid anodfztng, conventional coatings produced from
chromic acid bath <see 3.4.1>
Type IB - Chromic ac1d anodizing, low voltage process, 22 :t 2V,
<see 3.4.1>
Type IC - Non-chromic acid anodizing, for use as a non-chromate
alternative for Type I and IB coatings <see 3.4.1 and 6.1.2>
Type II - Sulfurt c acid anodizing, conventional coatings produced from
sulfuric actd bath <see 3.4.2>
Type IIB - TMn sulfuric acid anod1zing, for use as a non-chromate
alternative for Type I and IB coattngs Csee 3.4.2 and 6.1.2>
Type III - Hard Anodic Coatings Csee 3.4.3>
1.2.2 Classes.
Class 1 - Non-dyed Csee 3.5.)
Class 2 - Dyed <see 3.6.>
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MIL-A-8625F
ASTM 0 2244 - Color Otfferences of Opaque Materials, Instrumental
Evaluation of
ASTM G 23 - Standard Pract1 ce for Operat1 ng l1 ght Exposure Apparatus
<Carbon-Arc Type> Hlth and Without Water for Exposure of
Non-metallic Materials
ASTM G 26, - Operating Light-Exposure Apparatus <Xenon-Arc Type> With
and Without Hater for Exposure of Non-meta 11 i c materi a1s
<Appl\cation for copies should be addressed to the American Society for
Testing and Materials, 1916 Race Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103.>
2.3 Order of precedence. In the event of a conflict between the text of
thl s document and the references c1 ted herein, the text of this document takes
precedence. Nothing 1n this document, however, supersedes applicable laws and
regulations unless a specific exemption has been obtained.
3. REQUIREMENTS
3.1 Materials. The materials used shall be such as to produce coatings
whl ch meet the requirements of this specif1 cation.
3.1.1 Base metal. The base metal shall be free from surface defects,
caused by machining, cutting, scratching, polishing, buffing, roughening,
bending, stretching, deforming, rolling, sandblasting, vaporblasting, etching,
heat treatment condition, alloy chemistry imbalance and inclusions, that will
cause coated test panels or parts to fail any of the requirements of this
specification. The base metal shall be subjected to cleaning, etching,
anodiz.ing and sealing procedures as necessary to yield coatings meeting all
requirements of this specification.
3. 2 Egu i pmen t and processes . The equipment and processes emp 1oyed s ha 11
be such as to produce coatings which meet the requirements of this
specification. Unless otherwise specified in the contract, purchase order or
applicable drawing <see 6.2), process operating conditions shall be at the
option of the supplier.
3.3 General.
3.3.1 Anodizing of parts and assemblies.
3.3.1.1 Anodizing of parts. Unless otherwise specifled in the contract,
purchase order or applicable drawing <see 6.2), parts shall be anodized after
aH heat treatment, machining, wel~d1ng. forming a.nd perforating have been
completed.
3.3.1.2 Anod1ztng of assemblies. Unless otherwise specified in the
contract, purchase order or applicable drawing, anodic coatings shall not be
applied to assemblies which will entrap the electrolyte in joints or recesses
<components shall be anodized separately prior to assembly>. When anodizing
of assemblies is authorized by the contract. purchase order or applicable
drawing, the processing method used shall not result in subsequent damage to
the assembly from electrolyte entrapment <Type I or IA coatings shall be used
unless another coating Type is specified>. Assemblies which contain
non-aluminum parts such as steel, brass or organic substances. which would be
atta.cked by pretreatment or anodizing solutions or would prevent uniform
formation of the anod1c coating, shall not be anodized as assemblies, unless
the non-al'uminum surfaces are masked or electrically insulated in a manner
which produces anodic coatings meeting the requirements of this specification.
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MIL-A-8625F
3.3.1.2 Anodizing of complex shapes. When anodizing complex shapes which
will entrap the electrolyte in recesses, the processing method used shall not
result in subsequent damage to the part from electrolyte entrapment <Type I or
IA coatings shall be used unless another coating Type is specified>.
3.3.2 Handling and cleaning. Parts shall be so handled during all
pretreatments, anodizing and post treatments that mechanical damage or
contamination will be avoided. Parts shall be free of all foreign substances,
oxides and soils, such as greases, oil, paint and welding flux. Parts shall
have oxide and other interfering films removed by the use of proper cl~aning
procedures so as to be clean and have water break free surfaces. Abrasives
containing iron, such as steel wool, iron oxide _rouge and steel wire, which
may become embedded in the metal·and accelerate corrosion of aluminum and
aluminum alloys, are prohibited as a means of mechanical cleaning, prior to
anodizing. If special cleaning requirements are required they shall be
specified in the contract or purchase order <see 6.2).
3.3.3 Reflective surfaces. When specified in the contract or purchase·
order <see 6.2), parts fabricated to produce a highly reflective surface shall
be chemically or electrochemically brightened, prior to anodic coating <see
6.9).
3.3.4 Touch up <mechanical damage and contact marks>. Unless otherwise
specified <see 6.2), mechanically damaged areas from which the anodic coating
has been removed without damage to the part may be touched up using chemical
conversion materials approved on QPL-81706 for Class lA coatings and the
applicable method of application. Touch up shall apply only to inadvertent
mechanical damage such as scratch marks. For Type III coatings, touch up
shall only be allowed in areas which will not be subjected to abrasion <see
6.1.1>. The mechanically damaged area<s> shall not exceed 5 percent of the
total anodized area of the item or touch up shall not be permitted. When
specified in the contract or purchase 6rder <see 6.2), contact marks shall be
touched up using the above method required for mechanical damage.
3.4 Coatings. Conventional anodic coatings as specified in the contract,
purchase order or applicable drawings <see 6.2), shall be prepared by any
process or operation to produce the specified coating on aluminum and aluminum
alloys.
3.4.l Type I, IB, and IC coatings. Type I and IB coat1ngs shall be the
result of treating aluminum and aluminum alloys electrolytically in a bath
containing chromic acid to produce a uniform anodic coating on the metal
surface. Type IC coatings shall be the result of treating aluminum and
aluminum alloys electrolytically in a bath containing mineral or mixed
mineral/organic acids <non-chromic acid> to produce a uniform anodic coating
on the metal surface. Unless otherwise specified in the contract. purchase
order or applicable drawing, Type I coatings shall not be applied to aluminum
alloys with a nominal copper content in excess of 5.0 percent; nominal silicon
contents in excess of 7.0 percent; or when the total allowable contents of
nominal alloying elements exceed 7.5 percent. Heat treatable alloys which are
to receive a Type I, IB, or IC coating shall be in the required temper
obtained by heat treatment, such as -T4, -T6, or T73, prior to anodizing.
3.4.1.1 Type IC coatings. Type IC coatings provide a non-chromate
alternative to Type I and IB coatings. Unless approved by the procuring
activity, substitution of a Type IC coating where Type I or IB is specified
shall be prohibited.
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MIL-A-8625F
3.4.2 Type II and IIB coatings. Type II and IIB coatings shall be the
result of treating alum1num and a.1um1num alloys electrolytically in a bath
containing sulfuric acid to produce a uniform anodic coating on the metal
surface. Heat treatable alloys shall be in the required temper obtained by
heat treatment, such as -T4, -T6. or T73, prior to anodizing.
3.4.2.1 Type IIB coatings. Type IIB coatings provide a non-chromate
alternative to Type I and IB coatings. Unless approved by the procuring
activity. substitution of a Type IIB coating where Type I or IB is specified
shall be prohibited.
3.4.3 Type III coat,ngs. Type III coatings shall be the result of
treating aluminum and aluminum alloys electrolytically to produce a uniform
anodic coating on the metal surface. Type III coatings shall be prepared by
any process operation to produce a heavy dense coating of specified thickness
on aluminum alloys <see 3.7.2.1>. Unless otherwise specified in the contract,
purchase order or applicable drawing. Type III coatings shall not be applied
to aluminum alloys with a nominal copper content in excess of 5 percent or a
nomtnal silicon content in excess of 8.0 percent. Alloys with a nominal
siHcon content higher than 8.0 percent may be anodized subject to approval of
the procuring activity. Heat treatable alloys shall be in a temper obtained
by heat treatment, such as -T4, -16,. or T73, prior to anodizing.
3.5 Class l. When class 1 is specified in the contract or purchase order,
<see 6.2>. the a.nodic coating shall not be dyed or pigmented. Any natural
coloration resulting from anod~c treatment w\th the various alloy compositions
shall not be considered coloration. The characteristic color imparted by the
sealing process shall also be considered as non-dyed.
3.6 Class 2. When cl ass 2 i1s spec1f1ed 1n the contract or purchase order
1
<see 6.2>. the anodic coatfng shall be uniformly dyed or pigmented by exposure
to a. solution of a suitable type dye or sta1n. The color on wrought alloys
sha.11 be uniform. Cast alloys may exhibit dye bleed-out or lack of color <or
color uniformity> associated with the inherent porosity of the casting. The
dye.s and pigments used shall not be damag\ng to the anodic coatings.
3.6.1 Dye color. Hhen dyed or pigmented coatings are required. the col'or
and color uniformity requ1 rements shall be as specified on the contract,
purchase order or applicable drawing <see 6.2>.
3.6.1.1 Casting alloys. Dyed cast1ng alloys may show a s11ght lack of
co1or un 1f ormi ty. The degree of non-un 1form1 ty that 1! s ac ceptab 1e .s ha 11 be
established by the procuring acthUy <see 6.2>.
3.7 Detail requirements.
3.7.11
Types I. IB. IC. II, and IIB coatings.
3.7.l.l Weight of coating. Prior to dyeing or sealing, Type I, IB, IC.
II, and IIB coatings shall meet the coating weight requirements of Table I
when tested in accordance with 4.5.2 <see 6.10.6>.
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MIL-A-8625F
TABLE I. Types I. IB. IC. II. and IIB unsealed anodic coating weights.
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MIL-A-8625F
3.7.2.l.l He1ght of coating. The coating weight may be determined in lieu
of the coating th1ckness <see 3.7.2.U, at the option of the procuring
act1v1ty. Unsealed Type III coattngs shall have a minimum coating weight of
4320 m1111grams per square foot for every 0.001 inch of coating when tested in
accordance with 4. 5 .2 Csee 6. 2>.
3.7.2.2 Abrasion resistance. When tested in accordance with 4.5.5.
unsealed Type III coatings shall provide a hard abrasion resistant finish as
specified herein <see 6.17>. The anodic coating shall have a maximum wear
index of 3.5 mgllOOO cycles on aluminum alloys having a copper c;:ontent of 2
percent or higher <see 6.13). The wear index for all other alloys shafl not
exceed 1.5 mg/1000 cycles.
3.8 Sealing.
3.8.1 Types r. IB, IC, II, and IIB. All Types I. IB. re. II. and IIB
anodic coatings shall be completely sealed. unless otherwise specified in the
contract, purchase order or applicable drawing <see 6.2>. They shal 1 be
sealed in accordance with 3.8.1.1 or 3.8.1.2 as applicable. If wetting agents
are used they shall be of the non-ionic type.
3.8.1.1 Class 1. Hhen class 1 ts specified. sealing shall be
accomplished by immersion in a sealing medium such as a 5 percent aqueous
solution of sodium or potassium d1chromate <pH 5.0 to 6.0) for 15 minutes at
90°C to 100°c C194°F to 212°F>. tn boiling deionized water. cobalt or nickel
acetate, or other suitable chemical solutions <see 6.15).
3.8. 1.2 Class 2. Hhen class 2 is specified, sealing shall be accomplished
after dyeing by immersion in a sealing medium. such as a hot aqueous solution
containing 0.5 percent nickel or cobalt acetate CpH 5.5 to 5.8>. boiling
deionized water, duplex sealing with hot aqueous solutions of nick.el acetate
and sodium d1chromate <see 6.11>. or other suitable chemical solutions.
3.8.2 Type III. Type III coatings shal 1 not be sealed where the main
function of app11 cation is to obtain the maximum degree of abrasion or wear
resistance. Where Type II I coat1 ngs are used for exterior non-maintained
applications requiring corrosion resistance but permitting reduced abrasion
reshtance, the contract or purchase order shall specify that sealtng is
required. Sealing for such Type III coatings shall be accomplished by
hrmers1on 1n a medium, such as bo'11ng deionized water, in a hot aqueous 5
percent sodium dichromate solution. in a hot aqueous solution containing
nickel or cobalt acetate or other su1table chemical solutions Csee 6.2>. When
Type III coat1.ngs are provided unsealed, parts shall be thoroughly rinsed in
cold, clean water and dried after anodizing.
3. 9 Of mens ions of coated art1 cl es.. Art1 cl es or parts sha 11 comp 1y with
the d1mens1onal requirements of the applicable drawings after appl tcation of
the anodic coating <see 6.10.1). <For interference in close fits of parts or
assemblies see 6.10.5).
3.10 Toxicity. The coatings and electrical/chemical processes used to
develop these anodic coatings shall have no adverse effect on the health of
personnel when used for their intended purposes. Questions pertinent to this
effect shall be referred by the contracting activity to the appropriate
departmental medi ca 1 serv 1ce who wi 11 act as an advisor to the contracting
agency.
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MIL-A-8625F
3. 11 Pa1nting/coating. Pa1nt1ng/coating operations shall be performed as
soon as practical after the anodizing process on clean coatings. If parts
require storage prior to painting/coating, they shall be stored in a manner
that will avoid contamination. If the parts become contaminated, they shall
be cleaned in a manner that will not be detrimental to the anodic coating or
the base metal <see 6.3).
3.12 Dyeing or coloring. Anodic coatings shall not be allowed to dry
before dyeing or coloring. Items to be dyed or colored should be preferably
coated by the Type II anodizing treatment <see 6.12). Dyed or .colored
coatings shall not be allowed to remain in rinse waters for more than 5
minutes before sealing.
3.13 Workmanship. Except for touch up areas in accordance with 3.3.4 and
as noted below, the applied anodic coating shall be continuous, smooth,
adherent, uniform in appearance, free from powdery areas, loose films, breaks,
scratches and other defects which will reduce the serviceability of anodized
parts or assemblies. Differences in anodic coating appearance resulting from
inherent base metal differences in a component such as the presence of welds,
components containing cast and machined surfaces, and differences in grain
size within a forging shall not be cause to reject the anodic coating unless
otherwised specified in the contract or purchase order <see 6.2). Slight
discoloration from dripping or rundown of the sealing solution from designed
crevices in a component shall be allowed.
3.13. 1 Contact marks. The size and number of contact marks shall be at a
minimum consistent with good practice <see 6.14>. If a specific location for
contact marks is desired, the location shall be specified on the contract or
purchase order <see 6.2>.
4. QUALITY ASSURANCE PROVISIONS
4.1 Responsibility for inspection. Unless otherwise specified in the
contract or purchase order, the contractor is responsible for the performance
of all inspection requirements <examinations and tests> as specified herein.
£xcept as otherwise specified in the contract or purchase order, the
contractor may use his own or any other facilities suitable for the
performance of the inspection requirements specified herein, unless
disapproved by the Government. The Government reserves the right to perform
any of the inspections set forth in the specification where such inspections
are deemed necessary to ensure supplies and services conform to prescribed
requirements.
4.1.1 Responsibility for compliance. All items must meet all requirements
of Section 3. The inspection set forth in this specification shall become a
part of the contractor's overall inspection system or quality program. The
absence of any inspection requirements in the specification shall not relieve
the contractor of the responsibility of ensuring that all products or supplies
submitted to the Government for acceptance comply with all requirements of the
contract. Sampling inspection, as part of manufacturing operations, is an
acceptable practice to ascertain conformance to requirements, however, this
does not authorize submission of known defective material, either indicated or
actual, nor does it commit the Government to acceptance of defective material.
4.2 Classification of inspection. The inspection requirements specified
herein are classified as follows:
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MIL-A-8625F
a.. Process control tnspect1on <see 4.3>.
b. Quality conformance 1nspect1on Csee 4.4).
4.3 Process control inspection.
4.3.1 Process control document <PCO>. The anodizer shall develop.
maintain, and adhere to a PCD describing the anodizing process and procedures
used to meet the requ1rements of this specff1catton. As a minimum, the PCO
shall describe the following:
-All steps in the processing sequence.
-Ranges for immersion time and temperature for each step in the process.
-Chemical const1tuents used and allowable solution control ranges to be
used for so 1ut ion ana 1ys is <see 4. 3.. 2> for each step in the process.
-Ranges for temperature, current density and anodizing time <or voltage
ramps and hold times> as applied to individual anoys or alloy series.
4.3.2 Solution analys\s. Solut\on analysis shall be performed on all the
processing solutions in the anodizing 11ne to determine if the solution
controls a.re within the acceptable ranges established in the PCO Csee·4.3.1>.
Solution analysis shall be performed at least once every two weeks unless
otherwise specified by the procuring activity. The processor shall maintain a
record of the history of each processing bath. showing all chemicals or
treatment solutions added to the baths and the results of all chemical
analysis performed. Upon request of the procuring activity, such records, as
well as reports of the test results, shall be made available. These records
shal'l be maintained for not less than one year after completion of the
contract or purchase order.
4.3.3 Process control tests. To assure cont,nuous control of the process.
spec1mens shall be tested 1n accordance w1th Table II. Process control tests
are conducted to determine conformance of the anodic coatings with the
requirements of this specification a.nd are acceptab 1e as evidence of the
properties betng obtained w1th the equipment and procedures employed.
4.3.3.l Frequency of the process control tests. Process control tests
shall be conducted at least once every month. In addition, the intervals
between each monthly test sha 11 not exceed 35 days. If production in
accordance wHh this specification 1s not performed for a period of one month
or longer, process control tests sha 11 be conducted at the start of production.
TABLE II. Process control tests.
Number of Paraaraoh
Test Applicable specimens Specimen Test
Tvoe to be tested Precaration Reauirement Method
'Coating I• IB, IC, II, IIB 3 4.3.3.2.1 3.7.1.1 4.5.2
weiaht III 11 4.3.3.2.l 3.7.2.1.1 4.5.2
Coating III 1/ 3 4.3.3.2.2 3.7.2.1 4.5. 1
thickness
Corrosion I, IB, IC, II• IIB 5 4.3.3.2.3 3.7.1.2 4.5.3
resistance <minimum>
Ught I, IB, IC, II, IIB 3 4.3.3.2.3 3.7.1.3 4.5.4
fastness Class 2 only
Abrasion III 2 4.3.3.2.4 3.7.2.2 4.5.5
resistance
1/ For Type III coatings, the coating weight may be chosen in lieu of the
coating thickness at the option of the procuring activity <see 3.7.2.1.D.
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MIL-A-8625F
4.3.3.2 Process control test specimens. Production parts shall be used
for process control inspection prov1ded they can be adapted to the applicable
test. If the production parts can not be adapted to a particular test, test
panels shall be used. At the option of the supplier, test panels shall be
composed of either 2024-T3 per QQ-A-250/4 or the alloy representing the
largest percent of work anodized during the monthly process control period.
Whenever possible, the specimen panels shall be anodized with an actual
production run. Additional details for the specimen panels shall be as
specified in 4.3.3.2.1 through 4.3.3.2.4.
4.3.3.2.1 Test specimens for coating weight. Coating weight shafl be
determined on undyed and unsealed production parts or specimen panels <see
4.3.3.2). When specimen panels ·are used, they shall have a minimum width of 3
inches, a minimum length of 3 inches, and a minimum nominal thickness of 0.032
inches.
4.3.3.2.2 Test specimens for coating thickness. Coating thickness shall
be determined on Type III production parts or specimen panels <see 4.3.3.2).
When specimen panels are used, they shall have a minimum width of 3 inches, a
minimum length of 3 inches, and a minimum nominal thickness of 0.032 -inches.
4.3.3.2.3 Test specimens for corrosion and light fastness resistance.
Corrosion resistance shall be determined on dyed <Class 2 only> and sealed
production parts or specimen panels <see 4.3.3.2>. Light fastness testing is
performed only on dyed <Class 2> coatings and only when specified <see 6.2}.
When specimen panels are used, they shall have a minimum width of 3 inches, a
minimum length of 10 inches, and a minimum nominal thickness of 0.032 inches.
4.3.3.2.4 Test specimens for abrasion resistance. Abrasion resistance
shall be determined on Type III production parts or specimen panels <see
4.3.3.2). When specimen panels are used, they shall have a width of 4 inches,
a length of 4 inches, and a minimum nominal thickness of 0.063 inches.
4.3.4 Failure. Failure to conform to any of the process control
requirements specified in Table II shall result in immediate halt of
production. The reason for failure shall be determined and corrected before
production resumes. All traceable work from the time the failed process
control specimens were anodized to the time when production was halted shall
be rejected unless otherwise specified by the contracting officer. Traceable
work shall be defined as all work in which the location is know. Process
control testing shall be performed at the start of production.
4.4 Quality conformance Cie. lot acceptance> inspection. Quality
conformance inspection shall consist of visual <see 4.4.2.l} and dimensional
<see 4.4.2.2) examinations <see 6.2.1). When specified in the contract or
purchase order <see 6.2), quality conformance inspection shall also include
paint adhesion testing in accordance with 4.5.6.
4.4.l Lot. A lot shall consist of all items of the same part number
anodized in the same tank using the same process and of the same coating type
and class offered for acceptance at one time. In addition, the lot size shall
not exceed the number of items processed in one shift.
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MIL-A-8625F
4.4.2 Sampling for visual and dimensional examinations. Samples for
visual and dimensional examinations Csee 4.4.2.1 and 4.4.2.2> shall be
selected from each lot of anodized parts in accordance with the provisions of
MIL-ST0-105, Inspection Level II. The acceptance criteria shall be as
specified in the contract or purchase order <see 6.2 and 6.20>. If no
acceptance criteria is specifled, the criteria given in 6.2.0 shall be used.
4.4.2. 1 Visual examination. Samples selected in accordance with 4.4.2
shall be inspected and visually ex.am1ned for compliance with 3.13 after
anodtzing, seaHng and dyeing Of app11cable>.
4.4.2.2 Dimensional examination. Samples. selected in accordance with
4.4.2, shall be dimensionally inspected for compliance with 3.9, unless
otherwise specified by the procuring activity Csee 6.10.5>.
4.4.3 Sampling for paint adhesion testing. When the paint adhesion test
is specified <see 4.4>. two test panels sha.11 be tested in accordance with
4.5.6 to determine conformance to 3.7.1.4. The test panels shall be 3 inches
in width by 10 inches in length with a minimum nominal thickness of 0.032.
inches. Unless otherwise specified, the test panels shall be composed of
either 2024-TJ per QQ-A-250/4 or the predominant alloy in the lot from which
the paint adhesion test is required to be performed. Unless another paint
system is specified <see 6.2>, the paint system in 4.4.3.1 shall be applied to
the anodized panels.
4.4.3.1 Preparation of paint adhesion specimens. Specimen panels <see
4.4.3> shall be finished with one coat of an epoxy-polyamide primer conforming
to either MIL-P-23377 <Class 1 or 2> or MIL-P-85582. In either case the
pr1mer shall be applied to a dry film tMckness of 0.0006 to 0.0009 inch C0.6
to 0.9 mH> and dried in accordance with the applicable primer specification
before testing in accordance with 4.5.6.
4.4.4 Failure. Failure to conform to any of the quality conformance
requirements shall result in rejection of the represented lot.
4.5 Test methods.
4.5.1 Anodi c coating thickness. Test specimens prepared in accordance
1
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MIL-A-8625F
4.5.2.1 Method. Anodic coating weight determinations shall be
accomplished in the following manner:
a. Test specimens shall be weighed immediately after anodizing, prior to
dyeing or sealing. An analytical balance or other instrument sensitive to
at least 10 percent of the net Anodic coating weight on test specimen
shall be used. Specimens shall be cleaned and dried for a minimum of 30
minutes at 93°+ 6°C (200°+ 10°F) and allowed to cool to room temperature
before weighing. -
b. Immediately after weighing, the test specimens shall be stripped by
immersion in a phosphoric-chromic acid solution for a minimum of 5
minutes, <not to exceed 6·minutes>, at 100°+ 6°C <212°+ 10°F). The
solution shall consist of the following: - -
Phosphoric acid, 85 percent 35 milliliters
Chromic acid <Cr03> 20 grams
Water to make 1,000 milliliters
c. The test specimens shall be removed from the solution, washed in
distilled water, dried, and weighed. The 5-minute exposure shall be
repeated until the coating is completely removed, which is indicated by
the specimen's weight remaining constant. The stripping solution shall be
discarded after 1-liter of the solution has dissolved 5 grams of the
anodic coating.
d. After final weighing, the total surface area of the test specimen
shall be accurately determined.
e. The unit film weight shall be determined by subtracting the weight in
milligrams of the stripped specimen from its weight in milligrams prior to
stripping and dividing by the surface area expressed in square feet.
4.5.3 Corrosion resistance.
4.5.3.l Method. Test specimens, prepared in accordance with 4.3.3.2.3,
shall be washed in distilled or deionized water, dried with a soft cloth and
then subjected to a 5 percent salt spray test in accordance with ASTM B 117,
except that the significant surface shall be inclined 6 degrees from the
vertical. Specimens shall be exposed for 336 hours. After exposure, specimens
shall be examined to determine compliance with 3.7.l .2.
4.5.4 Light fastness resistance <Class 2 only>. Test specimens, prepared
in accordance with 4.3.3.2.3, shall be tested for light fastness resistance by
exposure to ultraviolet radiation in accordance with either ASTM G 23, ASTM D
822 or ASTM G 26, for a period of 200 hours, except that the specimens will be
exposed continuously to light without water spray. After exposure, specimens
shall be compared with duplicate specimens not exposed to a light source for
the same period of time to determine the Delta <E> value in accordance with
ASTM D 2244. The Delta <E> value shall be used to determine conformance with
3.7. 1.3.
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MIL-A-862.SF
4.5.S Abraston resistance. Test specimens, prepared In accordance with
4.3.3.2.4, shall be tested in accordance with Method 6192.l of FED-STD-141
us1ng CS-17 wheels w1th a 1000 gram load. The wheels shall revolve on the
anodic coating at a speed of 70 revolutions per minute <RPM> for 10,000
cycles. The abrasion wheels shall be refaced at least once every 10,000
cycles. The wear t ndex sha 11 be determ1 ned after the 1o,000 eye le period by
dividing the weight loss by 10. The wear index shall meet the requirements of
3.7.2.2.
4.5.6 Paint adhesion test. When specified <see 4.4>. specimen panels
prepared in accordance with 4.4.3 shall be tested for wet tape adhesion. The
test shall be conducted as described in method 6301 of FED-STD-141 to
determine conformance with paragraph 3.7.1.4.
5. PACKAGING <Not appl:icable to this specification>
6. NOTES <This section contains information of a general or explanatory
nature that may be helpful but is not mandatory>
6.1 Intended use. The coatings covered in this document are intended to
yipvide corrosion resistance, improved paint adhesion and abrasion resistance
as specified in 6.1 .1 through 6.1.3. This document is not intended to
sufficiently cover anodic coatings for use in structural adhesive bonding.
6. 1. 1 Types I. I B and I I. The conventiona.1 Types I. IB and II anodic
coatings are intended to improve surface corrosion protection under severe
service conditions or as a base for paint systems. Anodic coatings can be
colored with a large variety of dyes and pigments. Types I. IB and II
coatings provide better corrosion protection at higher cost than the chemical
conversion sy.stems. Repair of mechanically damaged areas by the use of
materials conforming to MIL-C-81706 <see 3.3.4> w111 not restore abrasion
resistance but w1 ll provide an effective means of reestablishing corrosion
reststance. Where anodic coatings are required on fatigue critical
components. Type I and IB coatings <see 6.l.2> are used due to the thinness of
the coating <see 6. 10. n.
6. 1.2 Type IC and IIB. Type IC and IIB coat1 ngs provide non-chromate
alternatives to Type I and IB coatings where corrosion resistance, paint
adhesion. and fatigue res1stance is required. Please note that Type IC or IIB
may not serve as suitable replacements when the effects of electrolyte
entrapment h the primary concern <see 3.3. l.2 and 3.3.1.3>. Maximum Type IC
and Type UB coating weights of 700 mg/ft2 and 1000 mg/ft2, respectively, are
specified 1n Table I for fatigue purposes <see 6.10.7>. If higher Type IC
coating weights are permissibl1e for the intended use, H should be specified
in the contract or purchase order <see 6.2). If higher Type IIB coating
weights are permissible for the intended use, Type II should be specified.
6.T.3 Type III. Type III coatings are intended to provide wear and
abrasion resistant surfaces w1th 1mproved corrosion protection due to greater
th1ck.ness and weight than the conventional anodic coatings. Sealing of Type
III coatings 1s not recommended unless corrosion resistance is also a factor.
Wear resistance is reduced by sealing. Anodic coatings form an excellent base
for most types of paint systems. adhesives and dry film lubrkants. Hard
coatings may reduce fatigue strength. These factors should be considered in
proposed use of parts subjected to eye li c loads. Genera 11 y. these hard
coatings should not be used on parts or portions of parts which normally
during rework would require restoring of dimensional tolerances because of
wear of hard coated surfaces.
13
MIL-A-8625F
6.1.3. 1 Applications. Type III coatings are used in such applications as
valves, sliding parts, hinge mechanisms, cams, gears, swivel joints, pistons,
rocket nozzles, insulation plates, blast shields, etc.
6.2 Acquisition requirements. Acquisition documents should specify the
following:
a. Title. number and date of this specification.
b. Type of anodic coating <see 1.2.1).
c. Class of anodic coating <see 1 .2.2>. . .
d. Special process operating conditions, if applicable <see 3.2).
e. Special cleaning and fabrication requirements <see 3.3.l, 3.3.2,
and 3.3.3).
f. If coating weight for Type IC can exceed the maximum specified in
Table I.
g. Color and uniformity of Class 2 coatings. if applicable <see 3.6.1
and 3.12>. ·
h. Degree of non-uniformity of dyed casting alloys <see 3.6.1.1).
i. Light fastness resist~nce, if applicable, and a Delta E value if
different than 3 <see 3.7. 1.3>.
j. Type III coating thickness, if applicable <see 3.7.2.l>.
k. Coating weight for thickness, Type III. if substituted
<see 3.7.2. 1.1).
1. Special sealing requirements <see 3.8>.
m. When applicable, the allowable difference in anodic coating
appearance resulting from inherent base metal differences
<see 3.13).
n. Provide the specific location of contact marks if important to the
function of the part <see 3.13.1 and 6.14).
o. Acceptance criteria for quality conformance inspections <see
4.4.2 and 6.20).
p. If paint adhesion testing is required for quality conformance
testing <see 4.4) and the required paint system Cif different than
that in 4.4.3.1>.
6.2.1 Consideration of data requirements. The following data requirements
should be considered when this specification is applied on a contract. The
applicable Data Item Description <DID> should be reviewed in conjunction with
the specific acquisition to ensure that only essential data are
requested/provided and that the DID is tailored to reflect the requirements of
the specific acquisition. To ensure correct contractual application of the
data requirements, a Contract Data Requirements List CDD Form 1423> must be
prepared to obtain the data, except where DOD FAR Supplement 27-4.75-1 exempts
the requirement for a OD Form 1423.
Suggested
Reference Para. DID Number DID Title Tailoring
4.4 DI-NDTI-80809A TEST/INSPECTION REPORTS 10.2.7.1
The above DID was cleared as of the date of this specification. The current
issue of DOD 5010.12-L, Acquisition Management Systems and Data Requirements
Control List CAMSOL>, must be researched to ensure that only current, cleared
DIO's are cited on the DD Form 1423.
14
MIL-A-8625F
6.2.2 Except1ons to drawtngs for types I. IB, IC, II. and IIB coatings.
When the anod1c coating type ts not specified on the drawing, Type I, IB, IC,
II. or IIB may be furn1shed w1th1n the limits of th1s spec1f1cat1on. at the
opt ton of the con tr actor. When the coat i ng class is not spec 1f1 ed on the
drawtng, either Class 1 or Class 2 may be supplied within the limits of this
specification. at the option of the contractor.
6.3 Painting/coating. When anodic coatings are required to be
pa1nted/coated, the parts should be drhd and painted as promptly as possible,
during which ttme, exposure to contamination should be kept to a minimtJm.
Prior to painting or coating anodized parts, wiping, buffing or mechanical
operations should be kept to a minimum. This may damage the less dense
outside layer of the anodic coating making 1t susceptible to subsequent
adhesion failures. Sealing processes can have a significant effect on
adhesion of primers and other polymeric materials to the anodized surface as
well as the cohesive strength of the anodized layer. If these factors are
important to the application, such as subsequent painting operations, specific
details for <or the omission of> the sealing process should be specified in
the contract or purchase order.
6.4 Electrolytic action. Severe attack by the electrolyte on castings or
weMs may be occasioned either by unsound castings, improper welding practice,
a difference 1n compostt1on between the weld and the base metal or.
particularly in the case of the sulfuric acid process, the retention of the
solution \n cracks. crevices, or irregular surfaces. Severe attack by the
electrolyte may also be caused by contaminants in the electrolyte.
particularly chlorides or by improper rack1ng of the parts.
6.5 Anod1zing rate. Aluminum and aluminum alloys may be conveniently
grouped by anod1z1ng rate. especially in the case of the chromic acid process
<Type I> for conventional coatings. However, e,ther the chromic CType I> or
the sulfur, c ac1d process <Type 11> wil 1 anodize mhed loads satisfactorily.
depending upon local processing preference. Suppliers are cautioned that,
espectally in the sulfuric acid process, the anodizing time wi 11 have to be
sufficiently long to assure that the slower anodizing alloys have at least a
min1imum coating thickness. In some cases, this may result in improper
coatings on the fast anodizing alloys.
6.6 Color match. FEO-ST0-595 may be used as a guide for specifying color
of anodic coatings. The color standards tn FED-STD-595 are intended for paint
fln1 shes and should be used for approximate comparison only with the anodic
coatings Csee 6.2>.
6. 7 Lapping. The Type I II anod 1c coattngs genera 11 y have 1ncreased
surface roughness as well as having the property of being less dense on the
top surface than in the core of the coating toward the base metal. Such
coatings may be processed oversized and then lapped or honed down to the final
desired dimension.
6.8 Coating baths. For information, it should be noted that processes
providing other coating electrolytes for the conventional coatings may be
aqueous solutions containing oxalic acid. boric acid plus ammonium borate and
nttrtdes. There are proprietary processes requiring coating electrolytes,
other than sulfuric acid, for the Type III coatings; for example. the various
15
MIL-A-8625F
Alumil1tes, the Martin Hard Coat, the Sanford. the Hardas and others. One of
the Alumil1te processes requires an aqueous solution conta1ning both sulfuric
and oxalic acids for the bath. Other baths used less frequent1y and for
special purposes employ sulfosalicylic, sulfamtc or sulfophthalic acid
solutions.
6.9 Chemical brightening and polishing. Chemical brightening can be
beneficial by improving the appearance and corrosion resistance, in smoothing
the metallic surface by remov1ng certain contaminants and in enhancing the
continuity of the anodic coatings on aluminum alloys <see 3.3.3). The.
percentage of reflectivity obtained from a part which has been electrolytically
brightened and subsequently anodized will depend on the alloy and the coating
thickness. Certain alloys are more capable of obtaining a highly brightened
surface and thicker anodic coatings will reduce reflectivity.
6.10 Design information.
6. 10.1 Surface dimension of parts. On specifying the thickness of
coatings, especially for the Type III coatings, allowance must be made for
dimensional increase. Both a machining dimension and a coated dimension should
be placed on applicable drawings. An increase in dimension, equal to one half
of the thickness of the applied coating, can be expected for each surface
coated due to surface growth. For example, for a 0.004 inch <4 mils> coating
on close tolerance parts, a pre-machining allowance of 0.002 inch (2 mils> per
surface must be made prior to hard coating. If close fits are specified in
design drawings. buildup in thickness caused by anodic coatings, especially
Type III, may result in interference on assembly.
6.10.1.1 Holes. In the case of small holes and tapped holes. coating
thickness can .vary from no film to a full normal coating. Holes, both tapped
and not tapped, over 1/4 inch should be anodized. Parts with Type II
coatings, external or internal, with a total tolerance of 0.0004 inch or less,
if lapped, honed or stoned to size after anodizing. should be subsequently
treated with QPL-81706 materials to provide surface protection. Discoloration
on the surface that has been sized is acceptable <see 6.6>. The designer is
cautioned to requtre adequate thread and hole sealing operations in subsequent
assemblies as may be required to produce the necessary corrosion resistance.
6.10.2 Thread dimensions. All anodic coatings will affect thread
dimensions for external and internal threads; the major and minor diameter
will be increased 2 times the amount of growth <see 6.10.1). The pitch
diameter for threads having an included angle of 60° will increase 4 times the
amount of growth. For threads having an included angle, other than 60°, the
pitch diameter will increase 2 times the amount of growth <see 6.10.1) divided
by the sine of 112 the included angle.
6.10.3 Fabrication. Successful use of anodic coatings, especially the
hard Type III, depends on proper product design. Because of the manner of
formation, anodic coatings will develop voids at sharp corners and edges.
Sharp edges and corners are difficult to anodize satisfactorily and in general
should be avoided. All edges and inside corners should be radiused prior to
anodizing. Chamfering should not be used unless resulting sharp edges are
radiused. In general, to avoid any uncoated edges or inside corners, the
piercing and blanking operations should comply with the radii of curvature for
nominal coating thicknesses as in Table III.
16
MIL-A-8625F
TABLE II I. Radii of curvature for nomtna 1 coating tht ckness.
Nominal coatina thickness. inch• Radius of curvature Cedae and inside corner>
0.001 approximately 1/32 inch
0.002 approximately 1116 inch
0.003 approximately 3/32 inch
0.004 aoorox1matelv 1/8 inch
6.10.4 Coating thickness. Th1c.kness of the heavy Type III coating can be
controlled to extremely close tolerances. Anodized coating can be obt,ined
wtth tolerances of as little as + 0.0001 inch CO. l mn >. With al 1 anodizing
processes used primarily for engineering rather than for decorative purposes,
a number of highly specialized techniques are used for operation control. One
method that may be employed 1's to ca.reful ly measure the coated part whll e
still wet and replace 1t in the bath for a fixed period of treatment.
Calculations based upon a calculated rate of coating per unit of processing
time may be used a.s the basis for determining the exact duration of processing
required for the spec I fi c a11 oy be 1 ng coated .
6.10.5 Coating dimensions. Table IV gives typical thickness ranges of
anodic coatings that can be applied on aluminum and aluminum alloys. All
anodic coatings are harder than the substrate material. If interference is
required for assembly, and is accomplished by force fitting, Type I, IB, IC,
II B. and some Type II coatings are too thin and too br 1t t 1e to wi th stand
abrashe damage during such assembly.. With Type III coatings as.sembly may be
accomp11shed by grinding, lapping or otherwise removing the surplus coating.
An anodic coatings are brittle and may crack and spall due to force fittings.
TABLE IV. Thtckness ranges of anodic coatings on aluminum and aluminum alloys.
Coatinq Tvce Thickness ranqe inch
I, 18, IC, and IIB 0.00002 to 0.0007
II 0.00007 to 0.0010
III 0.0005 to 0.0045
6.10.6 Coating thickness. Table V gives typical minimum thicknesses in
inches of anodic coatings formed on some wrought and cast alloys that could
comply with the minimum coat1ng weight requirements in accordance with Table I
for Types I, IA and II. Class I!.
TABLE V. Minimum thickness <typical> in inch of anodic coatings.
Alloy designation Thickness of coat1nq, inch II
Tvce I. IB. and IC Tvce II
1100 0.000029 0.000093
2024-14 - 0.000125
2024-T6 0.000044 -
3003 0.000035 0.000103
5052 0.000033 0.000098
5056 0.000021 -
6061-T6 0.000034 0.000099
7075-16 0.000040 -
Alclad 2014-T6 0.000045 -
Alclad 7075-T6 0.000041 -
295-T6 - 0.000107
356-T6 - 0.000102
514 - 0.000086
17
MIL-A-8625F
6.10.7 Effect on fatigue. The fatigue properties of aluminum alloys can be
severely reduced by anodic coatings. The amount of reduction varies w1th the
process. As a general rule, the thicker the coating the greater the reduction
in fatigue will be.
6.11 Duplex sealing. The corrosion resistance of dyed parts, especially
those anodized in a sulfuric acid bath, Type II and IIB, may be enhanced by
treatment in a sodium dichromate solution either during or after conventional
sealing with nickel acetate. This treatment can cause slight changes in the
color of the dye. Paint systems adhere very satisfactorily to.duplex sealed
dyed coatings. However, where any objection with such duplex sealing·
application is warranted because of a firmly desired coloration, the dual
process for sealing should not be used.
6.12 Dyeing or coloring Type I, IB, IC, and IIB coatings. Type I, IB, and
IC coatings have a different pore structure and along with Type IIB coatings
are thinner than Type II coatings which makes them more difficult to dye. As
a result, Type I, IB, IC, and IIB black anodized may not readily obtainable.
6.13 Alloys having 2 percent or more copper content. Aluminum alloys
having a nominal copper content of 2 percent or higher include all 2xxx series
alloys, 7050 and 7178 <see 3.7.2.2).
6.14 Size of contact marks. In order to obtain the desired current
density without burning the parts, the size or number of contact marks will be
greater on parts having higher surface areas. Because current density is a
measure of the required current per square foot of aluminum being anodized, a
part having twice as much surface area relative to another will require twice
as much current. Trying to force the higher currents required for larger
parts through smaller contact areas sufficient for parts with lower surface
areas may result in burning.
6.15 Sealing. The hot deionized water seal is advantages from an
environmental viewpoint. In addition, The use of a hot deionized water seal
on Type I and IB coatings yields good corrosion resistance and may eliminate
the appearance of patchy dark gray areas after salt spray exposure <see 6.18
and 3 •7 • 1 . 2 >•
6.16 Effects on coating thickness. A hardcoat of 2 mils or more is
extremely difficult to obtain on high silicone die castings such as 360, 380,
and 383. It is recommended that this be considered when specifying a coating
thickness for high silicone castings.
6.17 Effects of Type III coating thickness on abrasion resistance. The
abrasion resistance of Type III coatings will decrease as the coating thickness
approaches 3 mils. In general, the abrasion resistance does not increase with
increasing coating thickness. ·
6.18 Corrosion resistance of Type I and IB coatings. Although pitting may
not be visually evident with the unaided eye, the appearance of dark gray
areas on the surface after salt spray exposure is an indication of coating
degradation.
6.19 Definition of a pit. A pit is defined as an area of localized
corrosion having a depth greater than its width. As a general rule, a pit
usually displays a characteristic tail or line <see 3.7. 1.2).
18
MIL-A-8625F
6.20 Acceptance criteria. Previous revisions of this document specified
an Acceptable Quality Level CAQL> of 1.5 percent defective.
6.21 Supersedure data. Type I, conventional chromic acid anodizing,
referenced throughout th\ s spec ifi ca ti on is the same as the Type IA designated
in the 0 revision and the Type I in all versions preceding the D revision.
6.22 Changes from previous issue. Asterisks are not used in this revision
to identify cha.nges with respect to the previous issue due to the extensiveness
of the. changes.
6.23 Subject term <key word) 11 sting.
Aluminum
Aluminum alloys
Anodic coatings
Anodizing
Chromates
Chromic Acid
Potassium Oichromate
Sodium Dichromate
Review activities:
Army - AR, AV, MI
Navy - OS, SH
Air Force - 70, 71, 80. 82. 85, 99
User activities:
Army - AT, CR, ME
19
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