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Anodized aluminum processing successfully combines science with nature to create one of the worlds best metal finishes. It is an electrochemical process that thickens and toughens the naturally occurring protective oxide. The resulting finish, depending on the anodized aluminum 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.).
Anodized aluminum
using the hard anodizing process was developed more than forty
years ago. Hard anodizing is an electrochemical process that
involves placing an aluminum part into an electrolytic bath
and applying electrical current through the bath. This anodized
aluminum process forms an oxide coating (sapphire-hard) on
the aluminum part. This oxide coating can be harder than casehardened
steel and provide excellent abrasion resistance; it is protective
to the anodized aluminum part and can be very durable.
The anodized aluminum process is the only one in the metals industry that satisfies each one of the factors that must be considered when selecting a high performance aluminum finish:
Durability
Anodized aluminum 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.
Color Stability
Exterior anodic coatings provide good stability to ultraviolet rays, do not chip or peel, and are easily repeatable.
Ease of Maintenance
Scars and wear from the anodizing process, handling, installation,
frequent surface dirt cleaning and usage are virtually non-existent.
Rinsing or mild soap and water cleaning usually will restore
an anodized surface to its original appearance. Mild abrasive
cleaners can be used for more difficult deposits.
Aesthetics
Anodizing offers a large increasing number of gloss and color alternatives and minimizes or eliminates color variations. Unlike other finishes, anodizing allows the anodized aluminum to maintain its metallic appearance.
Cost
A lower initial finishing cost combines with lower maintenance costs for greater long-term value.
Health and Safety
Anodizing is a safe process that is not harmful to human health. An anodized finish is chemically stable, will not decompose; is nontoxic; and is heat resistant to the melting point of aluminum (1,221 degrees F.)
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.
This information used by permission of the AAC
Anodized Aluminum Processing Services from Duralectra –CHN,
Copyright ©2009 Duralectra-CNH
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