Frequently Asked Questions
Finishes
We stock a variety of colors, in a variety of textures. We also can supply non-standard colors but this will add to the manufacturing lead time and/or cost. See our powdercoat page for more information, including a list of stock colors.
What if I don't want to powdercoat my design?We offer different bare metal finishes including no finish, grained finish and vibratory finish
What is the difference between "no finish" and "grained finish" and "vibratory"?No finish means a part is deburred only - there is no additional finish or sanding applied to the metal. Minor scratches and blemishes are to be expected, with a consistent finish on both sides. With grained finish, a part is deburred and scratched using a brush/sander to create a uniform grain direction on both sides. Grained finish is an ideal application for when powdercoat is not desired, but a uniform bare finish is still required. Vibratory finish smooths and imparts random finish via tumbling in abrasive medium. This finish is great for a random (non-directional) bare metal finish. Click here to learn more.
Do you offer chemical conversion coating?Yes, we offer in-house chemical conversion coating for aluminum. Otherwise known as chem film or chromate coating, this coating process applies chromate to the metal substrate, creating a surface that is corrosion resistant, durable, and exhibits stable electrical conductivity. (We also can provide a quote yellow chromate coating, which is not performed in-house). Learn more about Protocase's Chemical Conversion Coating.
Is it possible to oxidize the surface of my sheet metal design with color dyes?Anodizing is an electrochemical process that converts the metal surface (aluminum, typically) into a decorative, durable, corrosion-resistant, anodic oxide finish. Although anodizing is a finish we offer, it is performed externally by a third party. As a result, our standard lead time does not apply (turnaround times are typically 1-2 weeks) and will associate a minimum lot charge.
Please note: anodizing is not available on our aluminum 6063 extrusion.
You may use isopropyl on a lint-free cotton rag, or isopropyl wipes, as isopropyl will not harm or wear away powdercoat and ink. Do not use abrasive materials, including paper towel, or any other types of cleaners.
How big of an enclosure can you fit in your chemical conversion coating tanks?The maximum dimensions we can accommodate are 30" x 30" x 45" (760mm x 760mm x 1140mm) with a diagonal of 49" (1244.6mm). See our Chem-Film Coating page for more information.
Can I get the Pantone or RAL number for a particular powdercoat color?Our powdercoat paint colors are sourced from Tiger Drylac, Prism Powder Coatings and other suppliers. All powdercoat paint colors that we stock have a RAL number associated to them - these RAL numbers are listed on our powdercoat page. If you request a specific pantone color, we will convert it to RAL. However, it should be noted this may not always be a perfect match. Different computer monitors show colors uniquely. As a result, you won’t always have the exact same color output. There may be some minor differences between what you see on your screen and what you receive in person. For more information, contact your Protocase Account Manager.