ASTM B580-79 is a standard specification for "Standard Specification for Palladium-Silver-Copper Alloy Wire for Electrical Contacts" published by ASTM International (formerly known as the American Society for Testing and Materials).
Whether you are working with hard‑coat anodizing for engineering wear resistance, architectural Class I finishes for building exteriors, or chromic acid anodizing for aircraft components, ASTM B580 provides the authoritative framework for achieving consistent, durable, and verifiable anodic coatings on aluminum. By understanding the standard’s scope, its seven coating types, its revision history, and the availability of the PDF, you are equipped to specify, inspect, and apply porous anodic oxide coatings with confidence.
Despite being a legacy standard, ASTM B580 remains highly relevant for several reasons:
Searching for ASTM B580-79 (PDF) ?
Understanding ASTM B580-79: The Standard for Anodic Oxide Coatings on Aluminum astm b580-79 pdf
ASTM B580-79 identifies of anodic coatings based on their intended service environment and thickness: Coating Type Industry Description Minimum Thickness (μm) Typical Application Type A Engineering Hard Coat 50.0 (Typical) Aerospace, high-speed machinery Type B Architectural Class I Exterior facades, windows Type C Architectural Class II Interior architectural elements Type D Automotive — Exterior Automotive trim, wheel covers Type E Interior — Moderate Abrasion Appliances, consumer electronics Type F Interior — Limited Abrasion Lighting fixtures, decorative trim Type G Chromic Acid Specialized crevice or humid conditions Core Requirements and Workmanship
Understanding ASTM B580-79: Standard Specification for Anodic Oxide Coatings on Aluminum
Type E (5 μm) and Type F (3 μm) are intended for interior applications where wear and corrosion demands are lower. These include household appliances, consumer electronics housings, office furniture, lighting fixtures, and other aluminum parts that require a uniform, attractive anodized finish but are not subjected to severe outdoor conditions.
This class is often used for architectural components, providing good durability and resistance to exterior atmospheric conditions. 4. Type D: Architectural Class (Heavy Exterior) ASTM B580-79 is a standard specification for "Standard
The following timeline outlines the evolution of ASTM B580 from its original adoption to the present day.
of coatings, categorized by their application and performance requirements: ANSI Webstore
The core of the ASTM B580 standard is its classification system, which divides anodic coatings into six distinct types. These types are categorized primarily by their minimum thickness and intended service conditions. Description / Application Minimum Thickness (mils) Minimum Thickness (microns) Engineering / Hard Coat Type B Architectural (Exterior) Type C Architectural (Interior) Type D Medium Commercial Type E Radiant Energy / Reflective Type F Residential / General Commercial Type A: Hard Anodic Coatings (Engineering)
: Provides a balance of moderate corrosion resistance and high bright-dipped aesthetic clarity. Type E (General Interior / Decorative) Despite being a legacy standard, ASTM B580 remains
When reviewing the official ASTM B580-79 PDF document, several critical testing and quality metrics are detailed to ensure compliance:
: Anodized aluminum components are used in vehicles to reduce weight and improve corrosion resistance, contributing to fuel efficiency and longevity.
: The standard includes tests to assess the coating's resistance to corrosion, usually through exposure to salt spray or other corrosive environments.