What are the aluminum surface treatments?

There are various surface treatments available for aluminium, each with its own purposes and practical use. As such, the

 treatments can be used to protect the surface of the material, but also to embellish it or to ensure better adhesion if it

 requires gluing or plating. 

Generally speaking, there are four ways, now introduce separately.

ANODISING

When anodising aluminum, an electrochemical process is used to form an oxide layer in/on the material. As such, this oxide film forms a protective layer in/on the aluminum. What’s interesting about this, is that no additional layer is applied to the aluminum when anodising. This is because anodising provides a protective layer that is built up from the already existing aluminum. The oxide film is fully integrated into the aluminum, thanks to a strong molecular connection.

The main reason for anodising is to protect the aluminum. Thanks to the anodising process, corrosion resistance increases and the material retains its appearance for longer. The hard, wear-resistant anodising layer that is created protects the underlying aluminum, making it a more durable end product.

The oxide layer can also have great decorative value. Anodisation also makes it possible for aluminum to take on various attractive colours. While the unique metal character of the appearance is retained, it also acquires a nice look. The aluminum is therefore not only better protected, but also embellished.

Electroless Plating

the aluminum piece is immersed in an electrolytic bath that prevents passivation (the corrosion of the surface layer) and protects the metal from substances present in the atmosphere. In this case, the functionality is complementary to the aesthetic appearance, because it ensures a more pleasant look to the metal while protecting it.

POWDER COATING

After a number of pre-treatments, which include degreasing and rinsing, the powder coating is applied by means of an electrostatic process. The negatively charged powder is hereby applied to the aluminum object, which is positively charged. The subsequent electrostatic effect creates a temporary adhesion of the coating. The object is then heated in a cure oven so that the coating melts and flows, forming a continuous liquid film. Once it is cured, a solid connection is formed between the coating and the aluminum, to provide the aluminum with a decorative and protective layer. The end result following powder coating is slightly rougher, as the texture of the granules used remains somewhat visible.

Color Fluorocarbon Spraying

Through electrostatic action on the surface of aluminum alloy substrate sprayed with polyvinylidene fluoride paint coating. Fluorocarbon coating for polyvinylidene fluoride, fluorocarbon coating, so it can have a long-lasting color, aging resistance, corrosion resistance, resistance to atmospheric pollution, its fluorocarbon bond is one of the strongest molecular bond is superior to its polymerization rest of the molecular structure.

PRE-TREATMENT IS ESSENTIAL

Whether you opt for anodising, powder coating or electroplating; the right pre-treatment is always very important. Without the pre-treatment, the anodising layer, powder coating or electroplating may not adhere well to or integrate into the aluminum, causing it to peel off quickly or not be evenly applied.