Alocrom 1200 Alternatives

Is Alocrom 1200 prohibited in the UK?

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Everything you need to know:

For decades, Alocrom 1200 was the industry standard chromate conversion coating for aluminium, valued for its excellent corrosion resistance, paint adhesion and cost-effectiveness across aerospace, defence and engineering.

However, regulations have changed significantly and many businesses are now looking for compliant alternatives.

The short answer is yes - Alocrom 1200 is prohibited for general use in the UK and Europe because it contains hexavalent chromium (Chromium VI), a highly hazardous substance.

The good news is that modern, Chromium VI free alternatives deliver the same high levels of corrosion protection and paint adhesion while meeting today's environmental and safety standards.

What is Alocrom 1200?

Alocrom 1200 is a non-electrolytic chromate conversion coating applied to aluminium to improve corrosion resistance and create an ideal surface for painting or powder coating.

Its distinctive iridescent gold finish made it the industry standard for many years. However, because it contains hexavalent chromium (Chromium VI), it has now been largely phased out.

Why Was Alocrom 1200 Prohibited?

The active ingredient in Alocrom 1200 is hexavalent chromium (Chromium VI), which is classified as:

• Carcinogenic

• Toxic when inhaled

• Harmful to workers during handling

• Hazardous to the environment

Due to these risks, legislation such as REACH, RoHS and UK chemicals regulations has heavily restricted its use. Since 2017, continued use generally requires specialist authorisation, making Alocrom 1200 impractical for most manufacturers.

As a result, most finishing companies (including ourselves) have moved to safer, Chromium VI free alternatives.

Why the Industry Has Moved On

Manufacturers are increasingly expected to reduce hazardous substances, protect employees and meet stricter environmental standards.

Chromium VI free conversion coatings have become the preferred choice, helping businesses remain compliant while supporting safer and more sustainable manufacturing practices.

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What Can Replace Alocrom 1200?

Modern conversion coatings have advanced significantly and offer excellent corrosion protection without the risks associated with Chromium VI:

Iridite NCP

• Chrome free

• Excellent corrosion resistance

• Outstanding paint adhesion

• Fully REACH and RoHS compliant

• Suitable for a wide range of aluminium components

SurTec 650

• Chromium VI free

• Excellent corrosion protection

• Ideal before painting or powder coating

• Improved environmental performance

• Suitable for demanding industrial applications

Both systems deliver the high performance manufacturers expect while meeting current environmental legislation.

Do Chrome-Free Coatings Perform as Well?

In most applications, yes.

Modern Chromium VI-free conversion coatings have been developed to provide corrosion resistance, durability and paint adhesion comparable to traditional Alocrom 1200.

Choosing the right process depends on factors such as: the aluminium alloy, service environment, coating specification and end application. That's why selecting an experienced surface treatment provider is just as important as choosing the coating itself.

Looking for an Alocrom 1200 Alternative?

If your specifications still reference Alocrom 1200, we can help you make the transition to a fully compliant alternative.

We specialise in Chromium VI free aluminium conversion coatings and our experienced team will recommend the most suitable solution for your application

Get in touch for expert advice or an obligation-free quote.