What is anodised aluminium?
Anodising is an electrochemical process that converts the metal surface into a decorative, durable, corrosion-resistant, anodic oxide finish. The anodic oxide structure originates from the aluminium substrate and is composed entirely of aluminium oxide. This aluminium oxide is not applied to the surface like paint or plating, but is fully integrated with the underlying aluminium substrate, so it cannot chip or peel. It has a highly ordered, porous structure that allows for secondary processes such as colouring and sealing to create a bespoke finish.
Anodising aluminium is accomplished by immersing the aluminium in an acid electrolyte bath and passing an electric current through the medium. A cathode is mounted to the inside of the anodising tank; the aluminium acts as an anode so that oxygen ions are released from the electrolyte to combine with the aluminium atoms at the surface of the part being anodised.
What are the benefits to anodising aluminium?
High wear resistance
Available with quick lead times or even from stock
Improves insulation properties
Superior appearance
Corrosion resistance
Advice and recommendations
As an established aluminium supplier, we specialise in delivering high-quality material that meets and exceeds your expectations. However, before using our services, we’ve detailed some advice below on what you need to know before choosing anodised aluminium.
Large surfaces receive more abrasions:
Due to the nature of aluminium, large surface areas aren’t ideal for anodising as abrasions can sometimes be visible.
Jig marks are unavoidable:
Jig marks normally appear at the end of the bars and are a natural effect of the reactive process. However, if required, they can be cut away.
Chemical brightening & colour anodising
Our standard anodised aluminium features a matt silver finish, however, the L.A. Metals team can chemically brighten or colour anodise your aluminium to obtain a brightness or a colour that suits your project. We can offer a variety of colour finishes, simply specify with the helpful L.A. Metals team.
A bright, specular finish applied to pre-polished material can achieve a high gloss finish. We can also achieve gold, brass, black and many other colours by immersing the aluminium in a concentrated acid solution. We can even offer powder coating services for your aluminium extrusions!
The anodising process
Anodising aluminium is achieved by passing an electrical current through the aluminium to produce a protective oxide film on the surface. Suitable for all good quality 6063T6 items, the attractive natural matt silver finish (bronze, gold and black also available) provides extreme durability, long long-term resistance to the elements and is easily maintained. We always ensure the team selects the best bars available to guarantee the highest quality anodised aluminium extrusions are delivered to the customer.
Have more questions about anodising aluminium?
Anodised aluminium is created by placing an aluminium section, to act as an anode, into a bath of acid acting as an electrolyte, with lead or stainless steel placed as a cathode. A direct current between the anode and cathode allows oxygen ions to form from the electrolyte and combine with the atoms at the surface of the anode. This is the aluminium extrusion you are anodising.