Abstract: Anodizing apparatus and method suitable for anodizing an aluminum part by a continuous process wherein the part is moved through adjacent processing regions to sequentially clean, anodize, rinse, reanodize, rerinse and dry same. The anodizing regions form anodizing cells wherein an unbroken anodizing current conducting envelope of electrolyte is formed around the part. In order to produce a hard anodized aluminum product, the electrolyte may be refrigerated or contain a selective additive. The selective additive may be formed of hydroxyacetic, carboxylic or hydroxydicarboxylic acids combined with an alcohol or triethanolamine. A surfactant may also be included in the electrolyte to form an oxygen holding foam around the part portion being anodized.