Chromate Conversion Coating for Aerospace Components

A thin, chemically formed film that shields aluminum and magnesium alloys from corrosion while preserving conductivity and paint adhesion for aerospace structures requiring durable protection.

What it is

Chromate Conversion Coating Service for Aerospace CNC Parts

Chromate conversion modifies metal surfaces through a controlled chemical reaction, producing a very thin protective layer on aluminum and magnesium parts. We apply this process under AS9100D and NADCAP oversight, ensuring uniform film formation and reliable electrical continuity.

  • Dimensional Note:

    Film thickness is typically 0.00001–0.00004 inches (0.25–1 µm), leaving component geometry and fitment unchanged for precision assemblies.

Benefits

Why Choose Our Chromate Conversion Coating Service?

Consistent Corrosion Protection

Produces a compact barrier that reduces oxidation and resists saline and humid environments.

Improved Coating Adhesion

Creates a receptive surface that enhances the bonding of primer and topcoat for long-lasting finishes.

Retained Electrical Pathways

Maintains surface conductivity for grounding and EMI shielding where required.

Minimal Dimensional Impact

Ultrathin film preserves tight tolerances and mating surface accuracy.

Uniform Aesthetic

Yields a consistent matte or iridescent appearance that aids inspection and finishing.

Environmental Options

Trivalent and non-chromium variants reduce ecological and regulatory concerns while delivering protective performance.

Technical Specs

Chemical Film Service Specs

Film Thickness

0.25–1 µm is typical for aluminum and magnesium alloys.

Corrosion Resistance

Designed to resist salt-spray and humidity exposure.

Electrical Behaviour

Preserves low surface resistance for bonding points.

Adhesion Basis

Promotes secure primer and paint bonding.

Operating Temperature

Stable for standard service up to ~150 °C.

Standards and Traceability

Executed within AS9100D, ISO 9001, and NADCAP frameworks.

Case

Typical Aerospace Parts Cases

  • Avionics Chassis Enclosures

    Milling thin walls while maintaining electrical conductivity for grounding.

    Aluminum 6061-T6, 5052-H32
  • Internal Fuselage Brackets

    Lightweight pocketing requiring corrosion protection without dimensional change.

    Aluminum 7075-T7351, 2024-T3
  • Radar System Heat Sinks

    Complex fin milling ensuring thermal transfer and surface conductivity.

    Aluminum 6063-T5, 6061-T651
Case

Compare Before and After Chromate Conversion Coating

Before
After
Quality & Compliance

Quality Assurance and Process Traceability

  • AS9102 FAI verified for MIL-DTL-5541 (Type I & II) compliance with negligible dimensional impact.
  • Certified test reports for Salt Spray Resistance, Low Electrical Contact Resistance, & Wet Tape Adhesion.
  • 100% traceability via Lot ID, Tank Chemistry Logs, & Precise Immersion Timing.
AS9100D

Aerospace-aligned quality system

ISO 9001

Documented and auditable processes

Applications

Typical Applications for Aerospace CNC Parts

Aircraft External Panels

Adds protection and improves primer bonding for fuselage and skin panels.

External Aerostructures

Landing Gear Components

Reduces oxidation on machined brackets and load-bearing fittings.

Landing Gear Systems

Avionics and Electronic Housings

Maintains conductive paths and prevents corrosion in enclosures.

Avionics Enclosures

Hydraulic and Fuel Fittings

Strengthens sealing surfaces and supports long-term reliability of the fluid system.

Fluid System Fittings
Compare Finishes

Choose the Right Chemical Film for Your Parts

Type Pupose Corrosion Resistance Conductivity Environmental Compliance Note
Type I (Hexavalent) Maximum traditional protection for legacy systems Very High Moderate Low (restricted) Often used where legacy specs allow.
Type II (Trivalent) Modern, low-toxicity protection for production parts. High High High (RoHS/REACH friendly) Common choice for commercial aerospace.
Type III (Non-Chromium) Chromium-free option for strict eco-requirements Moderate Moderate Very High Selected when chrome elimination is mandated.
FAQ

Chromate Conversion Coating Common Questions

Common Questions on Chromate Conversion Coating for Precision Parts

Which alloys are most suitable for chromate conversion?
Aluminum and magnesium alloys respond best; some zinc-plated items can also be treated with appropriate formulations.
Will the coating change precision fits or threads?
No, the film is microscopic and does not alter critical dimensions or thread engagement.
Can chromate-coated parts be painted or bonded with adhesives?
Yes, the conversion film is specifically designed to improve primer wetting and bonding performance.
Are trivalent coatings fully compliant with modern environmental rules?
Yes. Trivalent chemistries are formulated to meet RoHS/REACH and reduce worker/environmental hazards.
How do you guarantee consistency and certification?
We monitor bath chemistry, cycle parameters, and perform salt-spray and adhesion checks within AS9100D/NADCAP workflows, delivering full traceability for each lot.