An Inside Look at Anodizing Aluminum Alloys

Most of us are familiar with the term “anodizing,” but how many of us actually know what it means? Anodizing is a process that helps to create a thicker than usual layer of aluminum oxide over a base material. Though this process can happen naturally, anodizing speeds the process along, which is helpful for protecting a piece of aluminum that contains other elements in an alloy. While pure aluminum is naturally resistant to corrosion, an aluminum alloy may corrode, which is why a layer of thick aluminum oxide is sometimes put over the alloy to protect it by the process of anodizing.

All About Aluminum

There are many base materials that can be anodized, but anodizing works best with aluminum. Anodizing first became a popular process back in the 1920s, when it was used to prevent corrosion on aluminum pieces used in industry. Today it is also used to help improve the wear resistance of aluminum. It can also be used to help with the insulation of electrical wiring. Anodizing does not, however, increase the natural strength of a piece of aluminum.

How Does Anodizing Work?

The electrochemical process of anodizing works by putting an aluminum alloy in a tank that contains an electrolytic solution. The solution contains an acid, and once the metal piece is in the tank, submerged in the solution, a shock of electric current runs through the aluminum piece. An aluminum or lead cathode also sits in the tank. The current of electricity that runs through the tank initiates oxidation in the aluminum. This process creates a layer of thicker than usual aluminum oxide over the metal.

Why Anodize?

Why go through all the trouble of anodizing aluminum? The process is helpful in guarding against abrasion, as aluminum is a softer metal than some others, such as titanium or steel. The anodizing process also adds to the corrosion resistance of aluminum alloys, which is very helpful for the protection of equipment used in water environments.

Interestingly, anodizing also makes it possible to add color dyes to aluminum. As the layer that is created on top of the anodized aluminum becomes porous, it can hold color.

The anodizing process is indeed complex, but its many assets can without a doubt make it very worthwhile for the protection of aluminum against corrosion. For a free quote on aluminum and aluminum alloys, contact Avion Alloys. We understand how to properly handle our materials to ensure they stay in peak condition. Browse our aluminum products today!

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