All posts by Brandon Cordoves

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Which Metals Won’t Corrode or Rust?

When you’re looking for a metal material for any particular project, it’s critical that you find one that’s both rust resistant and corrosive resistant. Some materials, like iron, start the countdown to being covered in rust the moment you expose it to any oxygen source. While a key resource in human history’s development, there are other materials that tend to be much better suited for the elements thanks to their natural corrosion and rust resistance. 

 


Stainless Steel

While an alloy of iron, stainless steel is also made of a high amount of chromium. Chromium in some cases makes up nearly 20% of stainless steel. Due to its highly reactive nature, the chromium oxidizes very quickly, creating a protective layer of chromium oxide that resists corrosion, while also blocking oxygen from reaching the steel layer. Additional materials such as Nickel, only add to its resistance to rusting. 


Galvanized Steel

Galvanized steel is a carbon steel that’s been coated with a layer of zinc. This zinc acts as a barrier between the steel and the elements. With that said, this zinc barrier will eventually wear down over time (a very long time). With that said, zinc is highly reactive to oxygen, creating a barrier between the iron in steel and the elements.


Aluminum

Aluminum is much lighter than other traditional metals, but make no mistake: aluminum is just as strong if not stronger. There’s absolutely no iron present in aluminum, meaning it can’t rust. However, when aluminum is exposed to an electrical current run through water, aluminum’s top layer will oxidize, creating a tough, durable exterior while keeping aluminum’s lightweight properties. 


Copper

Copper contains little iron, however it will react when exposed to oxygen. Copper oxide creates a green layer, much like the one seen covering the Statue of Liberty. Once light brown when it was first brought over to America, years of exposure to oxygen has turned the Statue of Liberty entirely green.


Bronze

Bronze is an alloy of copper and tin, meaning it inherits the same properties and resistances as copper mentioned above. With that said, bronze is much more corrosion resistant than just copper alone, thanks to the tin included in the alloy. 


So, Which Metal Is The Best?

These metal options are all ideal for any exterior facades, however stainless steel and aluminum stand supreme. Their propensity for being highly corrosion resistant and rust resistant make them ideal for facing the elements head on. Thankfully, Wrisco is your source for aluminum and stainless steel sheets for any project. Contact us today to learn more how we can help supply your next project!

Blog

Anodized Aluminum FAQs

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!

Product News

Aluminum VS Steel: Which Is Better?

You’ve probably asked yourself this at some point in your life, especially when taking on a construction or renovative project. Which of the two is better between steel and aluminum, and what variables are there to consider when choosing either? Both materials have their pros and cons that outweigh each other but it’s important to recognize which of the two is best for the job depending on what you plan to do with either. Wrisco is here to explain which is better for your next construction or renovation project in this post from our blog. 

Cost

The cost of both metals is always fluctuating due to global supply and demand and so the steel can usually end up being more pricey than aluminum or vice versa. But, in most cases, steel costs much less than aluminum. However, most forms of steel, such as stainless steel, are pricier and aluminum will likely end up as a cheaper option.

Strength

In terms of strength, there is no definitive answer as to which of the two is stronger. Most will say that steel is typically a stronger material due to its concentrated carbon and aluminum’s lack of density. But it’s also important to keep in mind that aluminum is lighter in weight. So you must keep in mind the strength-to-weight ratio when deciding between the two. However, if you were to decide in protection against hurricanes, as an example, aluminum has proven to be much more effective due to its lightweight versatility. Aluminum allows for easy setup when putting up panels on your home and can easily disallow impact from damaging your home. Aluminum can also get much stronger and denser when it becomes cold.

Malleability

There’s no debate as to which is more malleable. Aluminum beats steel in this area by a landslide. Due to it being much less dense than steel, aluminum is able to be formed into whatever you desire when in contact with high temperatures. It is also very ductile so it can be stretched without breaking. Because of Steel’s immense carbon density, its malleability is only possible by the application of intense heat.

Corrosion Resistance 

Aluminum is resistant to most corrosion and does not rust as opposed to steel. After Aluminum has been extruded, no treatment is needed to further increase its resistance to corrosion or rust. Aluminum is also further protected by its naturally occurring oxide film. Steel requires a coating of paint or other treatment to protect it from rust or corrosion. Such treatment is especially imperative if the steel will be placed in an outside environment where it will often come into contact with natural forces.

CHOOSE WRISCO TO BE YOUR METAL PROVIDER

Wrisco has over 100 years of industry experience and has catered to multiple clients across the USA. They have establishments in Atlanta, Chicago, Edison, Dallas, and, Florida.

 

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All About Wrisco’s Endurex Products

Wrisco’s Endurex exterior architectural products provide a substitution to glass for a window frame, curtain-wall, or storefront. The purpose of this is to extend the life of a building while also giving off the appearance of a glass panel. These metal panels are more durable than glass and can easily match the design of a building with the different finishing options.

What Is Endurex Made From

The Endurex product is composed of a stabilizer positioned between two sheets of aluminum. There are many options for the type of aluminum, core, and appearance of the finish to allow flexibility for any architectural design. These components offer great fire and moisture resistance

The stabilizer core is a solid thermoplastic that will stay dry and firm against harsh weather conditions. A composite stabilizer can also be formed for extra resistant properties, making it the ideal choice for all glazing and storefront applications.

Why Choose Endurex Over Traditional Glazing

The Endurex exterior architectural products are not just a durable product. They are extremely usable for construction projects because of their ability to be cut in sizes appropriate for the space provided. Polyester paint finishes can also match all standard door and window designs.

The installation of Endurex is very simple because the panels are not as fragile as glass although they can be scratched. Once installed they require almost no maintenance and can be cleaned easily with a spray on detergent if necessary. This is perfect for buildings that want an appearance of glass but don’t necessarily want the functionality of glass or the responsibility of maintaining it.

Wrisco offers a wide range of options to the composition of the stabilizer core and the color of the finished metal. This assures the best possible solution and longest lasting panel for a building, storefront or curtain wall. If this exterior architectural product fits the design demands of your property, consider contacting Wrisco. We are an aluminum coiling manufacturer with many other products for construction. Call us at 561-626-5700 to learn more or order now.

Company News

Why Use Colored Aluminum?

The color of aluminum is a large concern in the construction industry. Whether for an outdoor park bench or an art presentation, colored aluminum is necessary to get the right look for the setting. Aluminum oxide is extremely strong and effective against weathering, and the process of anodizing aluminum allows coloring the metal with dyes that won’t flake or peel due to the electrochemical bonding process. Getting the right look also means doing so consistently throughout the project even while consuming many lengths of colored aluminum sheet metal.
 

Color Consistency Is the Main Concern of Aluminum Dying

Uniformity is historically one of the more common themes of building and construction. Some of the things that can influence the look of a metal are color, gloss, texture, and angle. These all add up to create a specific look. If they have all been done in the same way, they will look the same.
 
Texture includes grain which can appear to be a pattern on the surface of the aluminum. Because textures can vary widely from the same source, they pose an issue to consistency. Keeping a texture the same throughout will require the same machine to process the aluminum.
 
The coloring of metals will yield different results when the same dye is used on different metals. Color consistency is difficult to achieve with alloys and different qualities of aluminum. Purchasing anodizing quality aluminum ensures the same consistency of color in the aluminum all throughout. Anodized aluminum is unaffected by ultraviolet rays and allows the color to remain consistent even when different parts of a building receive varying amounts of sunlight.
 

Controlling the Color of Aluminum with External Factors

Different presses and mills can also have different effects on the metal. Wrisco can produce an identical color of aluminum for all of our sheet metal by processing our aluminum under identical conditions with a specific recipe of alloy and a singular high volume press. Though this is not always possible, a sample can be taken from one anodizing machine and used as a template for the other.
 
During the dying process, saturating the metal will also minimize the difference in color due to the precise miscalculations. The point at which a metal becomes saturated means it can’t take any more dye, so adding excess dye won’t change the color. This way every piece of saturated metal will have the same look. This also adds more resistance to the metal to keep the surface from wearing away and dulling the color or changing the texture. Angle also matters for installation. The color will change with a different reflection of light, so imitating a glass formation during construction will reduce this problem.
 
If color consistency is not necessary, a color range is nice. Wrisco offers many different colors to choose from when aluminum is needed for any project. Our prefinished colors will create a uniform look that expresses the theme or tone of the structure. Call us now at 800-627-2646 for more information.
Blog, Product News

All About Our Estolga® ACM Wall Panel Fastening System

As an architect, you want to ensure that the quality of your foundation and structure as a whole stands the test of time. It’s more than just a building; it’s your work of art and you want it constructed with not only the best materials around but also with the best care. Which is why we here at Wrisco offer clients the opportunity to have their buildings built with our Estolga® ACM Wall Panel Fastening System. With this wall panel fastening system, you can trust that your aluminum panels supplied by us will remain secure and provide the ultimate appeal to your project. To learn more about why you should rely on our Estolga® ACM wall panel fastening system, continue reading below.

Estolga® ACM Wall Panel

 

Fastening System

There are many reasons why utilizing our Estolga® ACM Wall Panel fastening system will benefit the construction of your projects. However, out of all of them, the most prominent three include:

Versatility

Whatever your preference is for constructing your work of art, you can trust the Estolga® ACM wall panel fastening system can get it done for you. This fastening system isn’t just bounded to providing patrons with only a singular means of construction. The Estolga® ACM wall panel fastening system allows construction to be performed with three different methods:

Strength & Durability

The Estolga® ACM wall panel fastening system possesses a unique design that is performed with patented technology. Because of such qualities, this system has developed into the strongest system that’s available in the industry today.

The Estolga® ACM wall panel fastening system has been fully ASTM tested for structural, thermal, water, and temperature performance. Moreover, the system has also been proven to withstand wind pressure up to 180 miles per hour. Generally, you can trust that whatever your building is being afflicted with, it will stand strong against the elements thanks to its implemented strength and durability provided by Estolga®.

Quick & Efficient

 

Installation

Construction can often be a timely activity. However, it can be performed quicker with our Estolga® ACM wall panel fastening system. Each fastening method under the Estolga® ACM wall panel fastening system is carried out with detailed instructions so that it can be completed efficiently. Also, as an added bonus after completion, you’ll have no exposed fasteners, ensuring a clean and complete finished appearance.

Contact

Interested in learning more about the Estolga® system? Simply contact the Wrisco team today and a team member would be more than happy to assist with providing you with any other information or answers to your questions.

Blog

Myths and Facts About Aluminum Sheeting

Every day our team receives questions about our aluminum sheeting products from clients around the country. As the leading supplier and distributor in aluminum sheeting in the US, we pride ourselves on assisting our clients with whatever questions they have about our products. Surprisingly, we tend to see prospective partners inquiring about some of the most common myths surrounding aluminum sheets. Thankfully we here at Wrisco are here to dispel these myths and provide you with the facts about aluminum sheets and how they can be a huge benefit to your next project.

Myth: Aluminum Rusts Just Like Iron and Steel
Fact: Rusting is a type of corrosion that’s specific to iron, steel, and other ferrous metals. In fact, rusting is just another name for “iron oxide”, or when iron and iron-based alloys bond with oxygen. As aluminum sheets do not contain iron, rusting is not a concern. The oxidation process is a major benefit for aluminum. When aluminum bonds with oxygen, it forms aluminum oxide, which creates a very hard layer that protects the aluminum from being damaged indefinitely.

Myth: Aluminum Is Not Readily Available, Making It More Expensive Than Alternatives
Fact: There is a major misconception that aluminum sheets are far more expensive than typical materials like steel when in actuality one of the most cost-effective building materials available. Aluminum sheeting’s strength-to-weight ratio provides customers with a lower overall cost per square foot use. Anodized aluminum weighs 60% less than stainless steel, brass, and copper allowing you to get far more bang for your buck. Aluminum sheeting can keep its cost down since there is such a high volume available worldwide compared to traditional materials.

Myth: Aluminum Does Not Hold Up To The Durability Of Steel
Fact: While steel is rather durable, aluminum can be just as tough. Thanks to Wrisco’s coil anodizing process, anodized aluminum creates an oxidized layer that is three times stronger than standard aluminum sheeting. This allows our aluminum sheeting to withstand even the toughest environmental stresses. You will never have to worry about your aluminum sheets getting weathered or rusted. While highly durable, anodized aluminum is also highly versatile, capable of being utilized in several different applications, such as:

  • Architectural Exterior
  • Windows and Doors
  • Rail Cars
  • Storefronts
  • Interior Wall Panels
  • Appliance
  • Curtain Walls
  • Ceilings
  • Food Service
  • Architectural Interior
  • Lighting
  • Signage and Nameplates
  • Exterior Panels
  • Recreational Vehicles
  • Solar
  • Roofing
  • Automotive
  • Electronics

The team here at Wrisco is more than happy to help dispel any other myths you may have heard about aluminum sheets and showcase their variety of uses and benefits for your upcoming project. Have a question, or ready to inquire about an order? Contact us today and a team representative will assist!

Blog, Product News

Product Spotlight: Endurex™ 555 High Impact Hurricane Panels

Here at Wrisco, we pride ourselves on offering only the best and most advanced solutions to our clients nationwide. From our sheet metal fabrication systems to our custom painted aluminum, we are constantly looking for the best available resources and products to provide. Wrisco clients get to take advantage of this with our Endurex™ 555 High Impact Hurricane Panels. 

With hurricane season a constant threat to the Southeast coast of the US, commercial properties are subject to extreme winds, torrential downpours, and the potential danger for large trees and vehicles to be thrown around as if they weighed nothing. To combat these threats, our competitors offer and rely on heavy steel sheeting to provide the protection needed for your property. Unfortunately, these steel plates are difficult to work with and make installation a hassle. Through our partnership with Nudo, we’ve created a lightweight and extremely durable composite material guaranteed to outperform every other product available. 

Benefits of Endurex™ 555 Panels

Our Endurex™ 555 panels offer a wealth of advantages over traditional steel panels. From the installation process to counting on them in the harshest conditions, the Endurex™ 555 panel system is designed to be both simple and reliable. Some of the main benefits of the Endurex 555 panel system include:

  • Lightweight Installation: Our panels are much lighter than our competition’s steel plates. This cuts down installation time significantly as transportation and the actual installation of each panel does not require as much effort. Our Endurex™ 555 panels cut easily and quickly, so whether your team is working on them in your shop or at the job site, they can shape them as needed without slowing down the team. Additionally, as there’s no steel side to Endurex™panels, there’s no front or back installation guideline required. Simple, lightweight, and efficient. That is our guarantee.
  • Advanced Stabilizers: The Endurex™ 555 panels were designed with advanced stabilizers, making them impervious to any moisture. The Endurex™ stabilizers are also thinner than traditional steel plate stabilizers. That said, they have been built to be stronger than steel, allowing for higher R-Values in 1” panels.
  • Several Customization Options: As mentioned previously, Endurex™ panels can be cut and customized to fit any job’s needs and requirements. Their lightweight build makes them easy to work with, even when you need a quick cut done while at a job site. Additionally, our panels come in a wide variety of colors. All 48” width aluminum panels are available in every color, while our 60” variations only come in a limited selection. To learn more about our available colors, simply give us a call and a team member will assist.

Approved Against The Strictest Hurricane Requirements

Every year from June to November, the Gulf and Southeastern United States faces off against hurricane after hurricane, all varying in strength. Even a category 1 storm can cause severe damage to your property, which leads to unnecessary and costly repairs. With the Endurex™ 555 system, those stresses and worries become a thing of the past. The Wrisco Endurex™ 555 panel system has surpassed all national hurricane testing requirements, meaning they’re more than capable of standing up to the toughest storms. Additionally, our Endurex™ panel systems have met Miami Dade Testing Requirements, allowing architects, buyers, and Authorities Having Jurisdiction to utilize our panels even in a hurricane-prone zone. When the difference of choosing the right panels could be the difference between homes, businesses, and lives, there is no substitute for the best.

Perfect For Commercial and Residential Applications

Whether it be for a new construction neighborhood, an apartment complex, or a multipurpose tower, the Wrisco Endurex™ 555 panel systems are the perfect choice for them all. Our panels provide the necessary protection and peace of mind no matter what gets thrown at them. To learn more about the Endurex™ 555 Panel Systems, make sure to contact the Wrisco Team. With over 100 years of experience in providing the most advanced aluminum sheeting solutions, we will make sure to answer any questions you may have and walk you through every step of the ordering process, simply contact us today!

 

Product News

The Different Types Of Prefinished Aluminum And Their Uses

There are many beneficial reasons to choose aluminum extrusions for your next project. Firstly, aluminum is quite versatile. Meaning, it can quickly be processed to be lightweight, thin, bendable, and crushable by human hands. Aluminum can also be one of the toughest metals on earth. From vehicles to aircrafts, trust knowing aluminum is capable of keeping you safe and secure.

One decision you may come across is deciding which type of prefinished aluminum is right for your project. Prefinished aluminum can improve corrosion resistance as well as enhance the appearance of the aluminum the choice is up to you.

Here are the types of prefinished aluminum that we at WRISCO offer. 

Top Prefinished Aluminum and Its Use

With more than fifty color choices to select from, WRISCO’s prefinished aluminum is sure to benefit your business. We process the aluminum using the highest quality aluminum coil on a computerized cut-to-length production line.

The aluminum sheets are then leveled, sheeted, and blanked to guarantee slit-metal excellence. We also provide special widths and lengths of aluminum sheet metal when you need it.

At WRISCO Industries Inc, we offer a wide assortment of prefinished aluminum sheets and sheet metals that include:

Pre Painted Aluminum   

Also referred to as painted aluminum or painted aluminum sheet finishes, our Pre Painted Aluminum Sheet Finishes offer excellent durability for indoor and outdoor exposures.

The pre-painted aluminum sheets we offer are hard, abrasive, and have high resistance to coating. However, the flexibility allows for extensive forming as well as fabrication.

Anodized Aluminum Sheet

The anodized aluminum sheet is a state-of-the-art process that creates perfectly colored aluminum sheets for exterior uses. Having aluminum anodized increases the resistance to abrasions as well as improving brake forming characteristics.

Applying a bright anodized finish to aluminum maximizes the reflective traits of the metal sheet.

The anodized aluminum sheet is highly recommended for outside use requiring high fade resistance.

Pre Painted Aluminum Fluropon® – 70% PVDF

Are you in need of aluminum sheet metal that offers superior, lifelong durability? Pre-painted aluminum fluropon® is the best option for forming and fabricating sheet metal.

Fluropon® – 70% PVDF allows the sheet metal to maintain excellent color consistency as well as providing superior opposition to the most damaging pollutants.   

Mill Finish Aluminum Sheets

When you need to fabricate or custom paint finish aluminum, mill finish aluminum sheets are the ideal solution.

Mill finish aluminum sheets are capable of providing an array of job demand possibilities due to its range of application possibilities.

Aluminum Tread Brite

Aluminum tread brite is the perfect option for architectural and industrial uses. No matter the size or gauge of aluminum brite tread you need, the result is always a high-quality product.

From pre-painted to tread brite aluminum, no matter what type of aluminum sheets you need, WRISOC has got you covered. We have the aluminum sheet metal options with the most durability and versatility.

At WRISCO, we take immense pride in being the industry leader in aluminum and stainless steel products with over 100 years of supplying unmatched quality for our customers.

Get In Touch With WRISCO At (800) 627-2646 Today!