Why Anodizing Custom Aluminum Extrusion is Important
Custom aluminum extrusions are a highly sought-after component across many industries because of their versatility and desirable properties. One of the most essential characteristics of aluminum is its natural corrosion resistance, making it ideal for outdoor applications as well as indoor applications. To strengthen its defense against corrosion in varying environments, leading aluminum extrusion suppliers, like OD Metals, offer anodizing to maximize the longevity of extrusions.
Read on to learn why you should anodize custom aluminum extrusions.
About Aluminum Oxide
Aluminum oxide is a naturally occurring coating that is caused by a reaction custom aluminum extrusions have with contact with oxygen. The result is a thin and robust protective coating that prevents the aluminum from deterioration, unlike other metals and iron alloys like steel which rust, turn orange, and flake. While the natural aluminum oxide is a good start, aluminum extrusion suppliers recommend anodizing to enhance protection against the elements. This is especially helpful in more complex environments like the marine or space industry.
What is Anodizing?
Anodizing custom aluminum extrusions increase the protection offered by natural aluminum oxide. The process is relatively simple, consisting of an electrochemical coating process where the finish is bonded with the metal. During the procedure, aluminum extrusions are submerged into electrified acid electrolytes, resulting in essentially controlled oxidation.
Benefits of Anodizing Custom Aluminum Extrusions
Because the natural aluminum oxide coating is porous and inherently integrated with the metal, anodizing works well with custom aluminum extrusions. Instead of being layered on top of the metal with typical paint finishes, aluminum extrusion suppliers can merge the coating with the aluminum oxide film.
- Durability: Anodizing helps extend the longevity of custom aluminum extrusions by minimizing the potential for wear and preventing damage to the metal. The protection offered by the coating is dependent on its thickness.
- Custom Colours: Anodizing aluminum extrusions also allow aluminum extrusion suppliers to customize their colour and enhance the texture for an overall better and long-lasting finish that surpasses painting or powder-coatings used with other metal components.
- UV Protection: Ultraviolet light from the sun is known to cause damage to items in its path, fading colours, and deteriorating materials. Anodizing extrusions help to protect them from UV exposure.
Anodization is considered an environmentally friendly process and helps reduce maintenance on products and infrastructure that rely on custom aluminum extrusions.
Additional Ways to Minimize Corrosion
Aluminum extrusion suppliers can work with manufacturers to further minimize the potential for corrosion by customizing the shape and design of aluminum extrusions. By choosing strategic angles, aluminum extrusions can be designed to reduce water or moisture retention.
Choosing Offshore Direct Metals
Offshore Direct Metals is a leading supplier of custom aluminum extrusions across North America. We will help you find the perfect aluminum extrusion for your needs and deliver quickly.
