During this electrochemical process, the natural oxide layer that exists on a metal surface is thickened. Here are some commonly asked questions about the anodising process.
1-What are the benefits of anodising?
Anodising offers a number of benefits, including corrosion and wear resistance, improved adhesion, heat dissipation, and aesthetics. Aluminium oxide has a Mohs score of 9, which makes it an extremely hard and therefore durable material.
2-Which metals can be anodised?
Aluminium is the most commonly used base metal, however magnesium and titanium are also suitable. Stainless steel and steel are not suitable.
3-Is anodising safe for the environment?
As the process doesn’t create toxic waste products or utilise heavy metals, the anodising process adheres to safety and environmental directives set out by a number of regulatory bodies.
4-What is hard anodising?
Sometimes referred to as Type III, hard anodising produces a denser layer of aluminium oxide.
5-Does anodising add thickness to products?
Unlike coatings which can add bulk to a product, the anodising process will only increase the dimensions of a product by between 0.5 mm and 2 mm.
6-How long does anodising last?
When executed to a high standard, anodising can last for an indefinite period of time. This is why anodised aluminium is used so widely in architectural products, as it won’t peel or rust. To ensure your products are properly anodised, always use services from experienced providers, such as //www.poeton.co.uk/surface-treatments/anodising/.
7-Can something be partly anodised?
Yes, it’s possible to mask parts of a product so that certain areas are not exposed to the anodising process.