What is “chem. film”, and how does it differ from anodizing?
Chem film, or chromate conversion coating, is a dip process for coating aluminum with a chromium-based compound. It offers excellent atmospheric corrosion resistance and is also an excellent primer coat for paint or other organic coatings. It is thinner than anodic coatings and is hardly competitive with anodizing for abrasion and wear resistance. Chemical films are also electrically conductive, unlike anodizing. back to top 10. Can chem. film be done in different colors? Chromate (chem. film) coatings can be done in either clear or yellow. These coatings can be dyed, but due to the nature of the film, this is not recommended. The dyes are easily scratched or rubbed off. Trivalent chromate films (RoHS compliant) currently can be done only in clear, but work is being done to develop a yellow color for that as well.
