Secoa Metal Finishing

The Importance of Anodizing Aluminum

The Importance of Anodizing Aluminum

As an easy process used to keep aluminum protected from unnecessary wear and damage, anodizing provides an aluminum oxide coating to the metal surface. The longevity and durability of the resulting finish corresponds directly to the thickness of the applied coating. At Secoa Technology, we help you protect your equipment and associated components through the wide range of specialty metal finishing coatings we offer.

Aluminum oxide provides superb and effective protection against the effects of weathering. At the same time, the electromechanical bonding involved allows you to apply dyes to the metal for coloring purposes without the risk of peeling and flaking in the future.

Anodizing Benefits

The primary benefits of anodizing aluminum components are dual purpose: greater durability and increased service life. Although the protection afforded by this application is significant, any shortcomings in protection are far less consequential due to the reduced maintenance involved in reapplying this type of coating compared to organic coatings. Anodized surfaces that accumulate stains or dirt can be cleaned easily using mild detergent, enabling you to recover the appearance of a new finish.

The lifespan of restored anodized finishes is approximately 20 years, which is much greater than the lifespan of the finish provided by a coating of nonvolatile organic paint. Anodizing produces a harder surface than powder coating and is optimal for heavy traffic and equipment use. This coating does not actively incur damage from exposure to harsh chemicals or physical contact. It is also not negatively impacted by sunlight.

Applications

As with various types of manufacturing and production applications, there is an optimal as well as a less than adequate way to anodize your aluminum components. The quality and thickness of the anodic coating process are significant factors in the results achieved in terms of durability and effective service life. Thinner coatings will provide less protection against physical impact. Higher quality and thicker coatings will last longer and provide a higher level of protection against wear and tear.

For more information about how our team at Secoa Technology can help you with your anodizing and other metal finishing needs, call us today at 706.272.0133 or send us a message through our contact form.