Re: Re-anodising heatsinks?
The reason that anodised aluminium cannot be used in ultra high vacuum systems is the pores. These give rise to what is known as a "virtual leak". In other words it has the characteristics of a leak, preventing the vacuum level to be attained, but in fact it is something in the chamber outgassing. And anodised aluminium outgasses pretty much forever.
The aluminium treatment for UHV use is electropolishing.
For decorative use (ie not vacuum use!) electropolishing and then anodising (and dying) gives a superb mirror like finish.
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