: Provides a balance of moderate corrosion resistance and high bright-dipped aesthetic clarity. Type E (General Interior / Decorative)
Many military, aerospace, and industrial drawings created in the 1980s and 1990s explicitly call out "Anodize per ASTM B580 Type A" (or other types). To fulfill these legacy contracts accurately, manufacturers must consult the exact historical document.
ASTM B580‑79 was first approved in 1973 and has been published in multiple versions: B580‑79 (original 1979 issue), B580‑79(2000) (reapproved 2000), B580‑79(2004), B580‑79(2009), B580‑79(2014), and B580‑79(2019). In 2019, the standard was reconfirmed but was still based on the 1979 technical content with no substantial changes. The ASTM webstore and other distributors list the 2019 version as “Active” or “Standard Cancelled” depending on the source—reflecting the transition to the 2025 edition. As of 2025, ASTM has issued , which is the current active version of the standard.
The coating thickness must meet or exceed the minimum threshold defined by its Type classification. This is verified using eddy-current instruments or microscopical cross-sectioning.
Type D (8 μm) is specified for exterior automotive trim, wheels, emblems, and brightwork. It strikes a balance between decorative appearance, corrosion resistance, and abrasion protection. Automotive anodizing is often dyed or electrolytically colored and sealed to produce a metallic or colored finish that withstands road salts and UV exposure. astm b580-79 pdf
: Base layers for paints or temporary protection.
Light-duty interior components with minimal exposure to friction or moisture. Type G (Chromic Acid Anodizing) Minimum Thickness: 1 micrometer (0.04 mils)
An international standard specifying general requirements for anodic oxide coatings on aluminum.
Ensures the finish is uniform and free from visible defects like burns or pits. Accessing the PDF : Provides a balance of moderate corrosion resistance
The use of ASTM B580-79 PDF offers several benefits to manufacturers, suppliers, and end-users:
⚠️ ASTM B580-79 has been withdrawn by ASTM International and is no longer maintained as an active standard. It is provided for archival and historical reference only.
Type A coatings are the heaviest and most durable of the seven types, intended for engineering applications where wear resistance and abrasion protection are paramount. Hard anodizing is performed in sulfuric acid electrolyte at low temperatures (typically near 0°C) and higher current densities, producing a thick, dense, ceramic‑like oxide layer with exceptional hardness (typically 400–600 HV). If the thickness of Type A is not specified by the purchaser, it shall be 50 μm minimum. Type A coatings are unless specifically ordered, because the unsealed porous structure can accept lubricants or retain a mechanical grip for subsequent adhesive bonding or painting.
The specification dictates that the anodized surface must be free of visible defects such as burns, scratches, powdery surfaces, or uneven coloration, unless those variations are inherent to the underlying aluminum alloy base. How to Find and Use the ASTM B580-79 PDF ASTM B580‑79 was first approved in 1973 and
Ideal for corporate procurement and engineering teams managing large document libraries.
Measured using non-destructive methods (like eddy-current) or cross-sectional microscopy.
Used for maximum wear and abrasion resistance (minimum 50 thickness).