Surface treatment
In its natural state, Aluminium has a clean and attractive surface with good corrosion resistance. There are also a number of surface treatments that improve resistance to corrosion and mechanical wear.
They can also provide a decorative appearance or in other ways alter the properties of the surface.
There are two main reasons for surface treating aluminium extrusions, for aesthetic purposes or to give the surface special properties.
The treatment methods are divided into four main types - mechanical, chemical, electrochemical and organic - which cover a series of different techniques. Some of the properties that can be changed and improved by surface treatment are corrosion resistance, surface structure, hardness, wear, reflectivity and electrical insulation capacity.
Anodizing is an electrochemical process that allows you to increase the natural and clear oxide layer which is normally present on the metal surface. Anodized profiles are well suited for industrial applications requiring high corrosion resistance.
