As one of the leading manufacturers and distributors of anodized aluminum sheeting in the country, we receive a number of questions regarding our sheets each day. We strive to answer your questions as best as possible, which is why we’ve compiled a list of some of our most commonly asked questions to better assist you!
What Exactly Is Anodized Aluminum?
Anodized aluminum is aluminum sheeting that has gone through the anodizing process, which is an electrochemical process that converts the metal surface into a decorative, durable, corrosion-resistant, anodic oxide finish. The aluminum sheet is dipped into an acid electrolyte bath and an electrical current is passed through the bath. As the electricity passes through the bath, the oxygen ions are released from the electrolyte to combine with the atoms of the aluminum. This creates an aluminum with a tough outer layer while still maintaining the benefits of aluminum.
What Applications Can Anodized Aluminum Sheeting Be Used For?
Anodized aluminum sheeting is incredibly flexible, allowing it to be used throughout a variety of applications. Some of the most common ones we see being used for include:
- Building facades
- Storefronts
- Boating
- Motor Vehicle components
- Food Preparation Equipment
- Vents, Awnings, Duct Covers, Storm Doors
- Interior Decoration
Are Anodized Aluminum Sheets As Strong As Steel?
While steel is commonly considered to be far stronger than anodized aluminum, anodized aluminum is actually an incredible durable material. The anodized layer is three times stronger than the base layer of the aluminum sheet. Additionally, because of the oxidation that occurs during the anodizing process, anodized aluminum can never rust.
How Sustainable Is Anodized Aluminum?
Anodized aluminum is an incredibly sustainable material! The most abundant material in the Earth’s crust, aluminum is 100% recyclable and reusable — meaning that when it reaches the end of its life, it can be completely reused for another project.
I Have A Custom Project And Need A Specific Color, Do You Offer It?
Yes! While we have our standard color options (which you can find here), anodized aluminum can be colored to any custom color in the visible light spectrum. Additionally, it can be fabricated in a brake, roll-formed, stamped, laser engraved, laminated, perforated, welded, embossed and silk screened for whatever your needs may be. The anodizing process guarantees consistent color throughout all of the sheets for your project, so you never have to worry about some of your panels being slightly off.
Have any other questions about our anodized aluminum sheets? Contact Wrisco today!