Anodised Aluminium

**PLEASE NOTE THESE PROFILES WILL HAVE A JIG MARK 30MM IN FROM ONE END 
WHERE THEY HAVE BEEN CLAMPED DURING THE ANODISING PROCESS**

Anodising Process

Although aluminium benefits from being extremely corrosion resistant, it can still tarnish, oxidise and corrode. The process of anodising aluminium enhances the natural corrosion resistance as well as giving a much more consistent, aesthetic finish. Naturally, anodised aluminium has a matt, silver finish.

The thicker the anodic layer created, the greater the corrosion resistance and typically this layer is between 5 – 25 microns thick. The thickness of the layer is determined by the length of time the current is passed through the solution – the longer the metal spends in this state, the thicker the anodising layer.

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What Is Anodised Aluminium and How Is It Made?

Anodised aluminium is aluminium treated with an electrolytic process to greaten its durability, heighten its resistance to corrosion and enhance its aesthetic appearance. The anodising process forms a layer of aluminium oxide on its surface protecting and strengthening the metal whilst providing an excellent base to adhere to paints and adhesives.

Anodised aluminium sheets are thoroughly cleaned to remove any oils, grease or contaminants before being submerged in an electrolytic solution, like sulphuric acid (H2SO4). The aluminium acts as an anode, and a cathode is also submerged. When an electrical current passes between the anode and cathode, oxygen ions release and combine with the aluminium atoms to create aluminium oxide layers on the metal’s surface.

Anodised Aluminium Colours and Finishes

Naturally anodised aluminium has a matt, silver finish but since anodised aluminium adheres well to paint, the choice of colour is almost endless. The layer of aluminium oxide formed on the surface is naturally porous, allowing dyes to be absorbed, resulting in a colour integrated into the metal. Different uses apply various colours, with black popular in the automotive industry, gold often seen as decoration and red for many consumer goods. Other popular colours include blue, green, purple, yellow, orange and grey. Anodised aluminium also comes in a range of finishes, including milled, brushed, polished, bead blasted and textured, all offering a different look. Some advanced painting techniques allow for multi-coloured finishes.

FAQ – Anodised aluminium:

How durable is anodised aluminium?

Anodised aluminium is considerably stronger than untreated aluminium thanks to the protective layer the aluminium oxide forms on the surface. It is durable enough to be a popular choice for automotive parts, architectural elements and aerospace components.

What are the benefits of anodising aluminium?

Anodised aluminium has greater durability than untreated aluminium and is also more resistant to corrosion, wear and weathering. It also provides a porous layer that allows paints and adhesives to adhere to it.

Is anodised aluminium safe?

Anodised aluminium is considered safe enough to be used in food cooking and storage, consumer products like smartphones, medical devices and equipment and many more. It is a non-reactive metal, doesn’t produce any toxic fumes and can be easily sterilised.

Is anodised aluminium better than untreated aluminium?

Anodised aluminium and untreated aluminium both come with their own advantages, so researching the material will ensure suitability for its intended purpose.

Anodised aluminium advantages:

  • Greater resistance to corrosion, wear and weathering.
  • Electrical insulation
  • Stronger
  • Adheres to paint and adhesives
  • Non-reactive surface

 

Untreated aluminium advantages:

  • Low cost
  • Electrical conductor
  • Easily weldable
  • Thermal conductor
  • Malleable
  • Lightweight
What aluminium product do you stock that can be anodised?

At Aluminium Online, we offer a superb range of anodised aluminium extrusions, including equal angle, unequal angle, round tube, flat bar, hollow section, channels, tee sections and more. Browse our full range of anodised aluminium extrusions and find your perfect piece.

What is the price of anodised aluminium?

The price of anodised aluminium varies depending on multiple factors such as the type of anodising, material thickness, colour and finish, quantity, specifications and current market rates for aluminium. Get in touch with our helpful experts to discuss your precise requirements and we can offer you a tailored quote.

Our delivery service extends throughout the nation and includes some worldwide delivery options. So, if you are looking for aluminium extrusions in Sheffield, Birmingham, Leicester, Cardiff or other cities within the UK, we can deliver to you.

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