Anodized Aluminum Using the Duralectra Process

Anodized aluminum is created using an electrochemical process that thickens and toughens the naturally occurring protective oxide. The electrical charge and mild acid “oxidize” the surface of the aluminum, forming microscopic crystals of aluminum oxide. This oxide surface is very hard, much harder than the base material, but very thin, often only a thousandth of an inch. The resulting anodized finish, depending on the process, is the second hardest substance known to man, second only to the diamond.

The anodic coating is part of the metal, but has a porous structure, which allows secondary infusions, (i.e. organic and inorganic coloring, lubricity aids, etc.). The anodized aluminum prevents further oxidation, so the piece will not “rust” or corrode any further, and also makes the surface much more wear and scratch resistant.

Most anodized products have an extremely long life span and offer significant economic advantages through maintenance and operating savings. Anodizing is a reacted finish that is integrated with the underlying aluminum for total bonding and unmatched adhesion. A lower initial finishing cost combines with lower maintenance costs for greater long-term value.

Since the anodizing process is a reinforcement of a naturally occurring oxide process, it is non-hazardous and produces no harmful or dangerous by-products.

DURALECTRA uses two types of anodizing processes, sulfuric anodize and Sanford Process Hardcoat® anodizing.

Sulfuric anodize, commonly referred to as Type II anodizing, and is formed by using an electrolytic solution of sulfuric acid at room temperature.  This will produce a generally clear coating. 1/3 of the coating thickness will build up per surface and 2/3 will be penetration.

Type II sulfuric anodizing provides for several desirable qualities such as: