23 Mar Noticing Signs of Oxidation? The Right Metal Finishes Can Prevent It
Oxidation is a chemical reaction triggered by exposure to oxygen in the air. Other types of environmental exposure will also speed up the process. Humidity, salt water, UV rays, extreme temperatures, and pollution can all accelerate oxidation. This reaction destabilizes the surfaces of metal parts, causing problems like corrosion, brittleness, and loss of conductivity. Eventually, oxidation will degrade metal parts to the point of mechanical failure.
When performance and longevity are concerns, choosing the right metal finishing technique can help prevent oxidation (or at least slow it down).
Six Warning Signs of Oxidation
1: Discoloration
When stainless steel starts to look rusty or copper starts to turn green, these are visible signs of oxidation.
2: Corrosion
Surface imperfections like pitting and etching are also caused by oxidation.
3: Loss of Conductivity
Oxidation also affects sensitive electronic parts and interrupts conductivity.
4: Surface Deposits
If you ever see powdery spots on aluminum parts or scaling on stainless steel, oxidation is probably the culprit.
5: Friction
Oxidation creates more friction between metal parts, which leads to galling, seizing, and equipment failure.
6: Brittleness
Some metals become more brittle under oxidation. Brittleness can cause stress cracks, breaks, and mechanical failure.
Metal Finishing Techniques That Prevent Oxidation
Electroplating
This process deposits a thin layer of nickel, chromium, silver, or cadmium and protects the surface from oxidation. Cad plating, for instance, makes steel and aluminum parts more resistant to saltwater corrosion.
Anodizing
This technique makes aluminum more resistant to oxidation by thickening the natural oxide layer on the surface. It also dissipates heat, so it can help keep electronic parts cool and preserve conductivity at the same time.
Passivation
Like anodizing for aluminum parts, the passivation process enhances the natural oxide layer on stainless steel. Passivation removes contaminants and improves corrosion resistance without altering the dimensions of the part.
Premium Metal Finishing Services in Phoenix, Arizona
Oxidation is inevitable, but the right surface treatments can help prevent corrosion, mechanical degradation and more. For maximum durability and reliability, you need a trusted partner who has a reputation for excellence.
CRC Surface Technologies is an AS9100- and NADCAP-certified, ITAR-registered company. We provide metal finishing and non-destructive testing to manufacturers nationwide. Request a quote today—send a message to rfq@chemresearchco.com to learn more.
Photo by Raimund Schlager on Unsplash used with permission under the Creative Commons license for commercial use 3/14/26.