Tartaric Sulphuric Acid Anodising (TSA)

Gardner Aerospace — Tartaric Sulphuric Acid Anodising (TSA), Derby, UK

Gardner Aerospace operates a dedicated Tartaric Sulphuric Acid Anodising (TSA) line at its Derby facility, offering the process as a subcontract service to aerospace and defence manufacturers.

TSA is an electrochemical anodising process applied to aluminium and aluminium wrought alloys, producing an oxide layer typically in the range of 2 to 7 microns. The process is performed in an electrolyte bath containing sulphuric acid and tartaric acid, operating at controlled temperature and voltage parameters in accordance with applicable aerospace process specifications. The resulting layer provides effective corrosion protection and a consistent, receptive surface for aerospace paint and primer systems.

The process is the established REACH-compliant successor to Chromic Acid Anodising (CAA), which is subject to restriction under EU and UK REACH regulations due to the use of hexavalent chromium. TSA meets the corrosion and adhesion performance requirements of major OEM specifications including Airbus AIPI 02-01-003 and the broader EN 4704 aerospace series standard, and is now widely specified across civil and defence aerostructure programmes.

Gardner's Derby TSA line is operated within the site's AS9100-certified quality management system, with full process traceability and documentation in line with aerospace first article and production part requirements. The facility holds CAA, FAA and EASA approvals, and is an established Airbus-approved supplier.

Capacity is available on the Derby TSA line, and the service is offered on a subcontract basis to machine shops and aerostructure manufacturers requiring an approved surface treatment capability without in-house provision. Typical applications include structural detail parts, machined components and aerostructure sub-assemblies in aluminium alloy where corrosion protection and paint adhesion are required to OEM specification.

Enquiries regarding subcontract TSA processing, capacity availability and qualification requirements should be directed to the Gardner Aerospace Derby facility or representative at ILA Berlin.