Repairing Scratches on Anodised Aluminium The effectiveness and complexity of ways to remove scratches in dark coated anodised aluminium locations varies quite a bit.
Anodised Aluminium Explained
Anodized considers as adding a coating surface to the aluminum by increasing corrision resistance and wear strength through making a thick oxide layer. The surface ends up being stronger as a result yet due to scratching the coating granulates however still on peak of that harder scratch unveiling the base metal.
Repair Techniques
Dealing With Scratches: On smaller scratches, rubbing Birchwood Casey Aluminum Black Metal Finish into the scratch can darken it, and reduce its noticeability. Used by gunsmiths a method that can be carefully applied with a cotton swab to avoid overspray on unwanted areas.
Type of Painting: An alternative way is to apply a self-etching primer with a fine detail brush over the scratch. It is a process in which only required touch-ups are localized, without repainting whole surface (1).
Marker Solutions: Similarly, for small nicks and scratches, some users suggest masking them with a permanent marker in the corresponding anodised color. While this does not fix the scratch, it can and will very effectively hide it.
Limitations of Repair
Just know, if the scratches run deep then you may have to take more drastic measures like having the part anodised all over again or even sanding back and re-polishing down the area — if possible. Although this can correct the appearance, it is risky and must be approached with a light touch so as not to take away the anodised layer completely.
Conclusion
There are several ways to address scratches on anodised aluminium, none of which are perfect and realistically all will leave the affected area looking (pardon the inevitable pun) a bit grey. More severe damage will likely require professional refinishing.anodised aluminium repair (ad)