In article . com,
Andy
Evans wrote:
Like may people I use aluminium in equipment cases - in my case for top
plates for valve preamps and amps. I use 4mm alu, which Fays Metals in
Acton London supply and cut to size. It's not great looking in its raw
state, but all my DIY attempts with solvent cleaners, wet and dry paper
etc are even worse. How do they get that 'brushed aluminium' effect? Has
anybody come across a successful method of finishing surfaces of alu?

My recommendation would be similar to those of others.

Find someone local who can clean/anodise the chassis. This can be done in
various colours/finishes if you wish. A skilled anodiser can produce a
superb appearance.

However as Iain has pointed out, note that the anodising produces an
*insulating* layer on the surface. So mask off any areas which you need to
ensure remain conducting for ground contacts, etc - or be prepared to
abrade them clean of anodising afterwards.

Slainte,

Jim

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