Where Is Chemical Film Used? 5 Common Applications of Chromate Conversion Coating
Chemical film, also known as chromate conversion coating, is a widely used metal finishing process that enhances corrosion resistance and prepares aluminum surfaces for painting or bonding. Often referred to by trade names like Alodine™ or Iridite™, this treatment is crucial in industries where durability, conductivity, and surface preparation are key.
At Bass Plating, we provide chemical film coating for aluminum alloys, serving industries that demand precision and performance.
What Is Chemical Film?
Chemical film coating is a non-decorative conversion coating applied to aluminum parts. It creates a thin, protective oxide layer that:
- Improves corrosion resistance
- Enhances adhesion for paints and primers
- Maintains electrical conductivity
- Complies with military and aerospace specifications (MIL-DTL-5541)
Unlike anodizing, chemical film does not significantly alter part dimensions, making it ideal for components with tight tolerances.
Where Is Chemical Film Used? 5 Common Applications
1. Aerospace Components
Aircraft manufacturers rely heavily on chemical film to protect aluminum parts without compromising weight or conductivity. It is commonly applied to:
- Fuselage and structural components
- Control surfaces
- Avionics enclosures
- Brackets and fittings
Why? Chromate coatings meet stringent aerospace standards (like MIL-DTL-5541 Type I & II) and are often used as a primer base for aircraft-grade paints.
2. Military and Defense Equipment
Military-grade hardware often uses chemical film for corrosion protection and paint adhesion on aluminum parts, including:
- Weapon systems
- Radar housings
- Ground vehicle panels
- Communication devices
Why? It meets military specifications and provides essential corrosion resistance in extreme environments.
3. Electrical & Electronic Enclosures
Because chemical film coatings preserve electrical conductivity, they are ideal for:
- Aluminum electrical enclosures
- EMI/RFI shielding applications
- Circuit board housings
- Power supply components
Why? Unlike paint or powder coat, chemical film allows for grounding and shielding while still protecting against corrosion.
4. Medical Devices & Equipment
Medical manufacturers use chromate conversion on aluminum to maintain a sterile, corrosion-resistant surface. Common applications include:
- Imaging equipment housings
- Surgical tools
- Aluminum chassis for diagnostic devices
Why? It provides a clean, uniform coating that supports both corrosion protection and secondary coating processes (like painting or labeling).
5. Industrial Machinery & Equipment
Chemical film is often used on aluminum parts in industrial applications such as:
- Control panels
- Mounting brackets
- Machine housings
- Conveyor system parts
Why? It extends service life and provides a stable base for painting or powder coating—especially in manufacturing environments exposed to moisture or chemicals.
Bonus: Chemical Film as a Paint Pre-Treatment
One of the most common reasons manufacturers choose chemical film is its role as a pre-treatment before painting. The coating improves paint adhesion while enhancing corrosion resistance underneath the paint layer.
At Bass Plating, we can process your parts to MIL-DTL-5541 Class 1A or Class 3 standards, depending on whether your priority is maximum protection or electrical conductivity.
Why Choose Bass Plating for Chemical Film?
- Certified chromate conversion coating for aluminum
- High-volume capacity with fast turnaround
- MIL-spec compliant processes
- Rack and barrel processing available
- Decades of expertise serving aerospace, defense, and industrial clients
Whether you're finishing electrical enclosures or aerospace components, we provide consistent, compliant chemical film coatings you can trust.
Chemical Films at Bass Plating
Chemical film is an essential metal finishing process used across industries to protect, prepare, and enhance aluminum parts. From aerospace to electronics, its versatility and performance make it a go-to solution for manufacturers who can’t compromise on quality.
Need a reliable chemical film supplier? Contact Bass Plating today to request a quote or discuss how our chromate conversion coating services can support your next project.
