Tin Electrolytic Coloring with Pinakin Patel

Tin Electrolytic Coloring with Pinakin Patel 

Electrolytic (or two-step) coloring is one of the most durable metal coloring methods on the market, even outperforming paint. Electrolytic coloring is primarily used on extruded aluminum parts for the architectural (store front), and automotive trim industries due to its durability. Our hosts Tej Patel of Techevon LLC and George Oh of Quaker Houghton discuss the process of tin electrolytic coloring with Pinakin Patel, owner of Techevon LLC, a global anodizing chemistry supplier in Chicago, IL. Electrolytic coloring, as noted by our hosts, is a combination of “science, sorcery, and luck”. Pinakin describes the basic science and history of electrolytic coloring and colors available for aluminum anodizing. One of the biggest advantages of electrolytic coloring is its light- and weather-fastness. In this episode, Pinakin focuses on the tin electrolytic coloring method and specific equipment, chemicals and processes that need to be considered to ensure consistent color.