Opalizing

Dimensionally stable protective layer with decorative colour

Opalizing is a specialized form of anodizing that creates a hard, wear-resistant, and exceptionally smooth layer with a distinctive opalescent color. The coating thickness varies depending on the base material, ranging from 5 to 20 μm, with a hardness of 500–700 MHV. During opalizing, the aluminum oxide layer forms partially on and partially within the base material. This keeps dimensional changes to a minimum. Additionally, the surface remains smooth, without any roughening, making opalizing ideal for applications where tight tolerances are critical. 

Advantages of opalizing: 

• Surface quality (roughness) remains unaffected, eliminating the need for post-processing 

• Minimal build-up (approx. 15%) and limited layer thickness maintain dimensional accuracy 

• Wear-resistant 

We commonly apply opalizing to products such as sliding bearings, air bearing surfaces, and molds where good release properties are essential. 

Our opalizing process is approved by ASML, providing assurance of quality and reliability at the highest level. 

Would you like to learn how opalizing can benefit your application? We will be happy to advise you. 

Please contact our Sales department: sales@surfacetreatment.nl 

Maximum product dimensions:
Surface Treatment Netherlands: 1100 mm × 600 mm × 360 mm