Advantages of Anodizing

Anodizing aluminum, one of the several metals capable of undergoing this electrochemical conversion process, permanently changes the outer structure of the metal. Anodized aluminum is used in numerous applications given its fine aesthetic qualities, ideal mechanical properties, and low cost.

Naturally, when aluminum is exposed to air, it develops a thick layer of aluminum oxide film which seals the aluminum from further oxidation. The anodizing process creates a much thicker oxidized surface, which makes the aluminum more corrosion resistant, easier to clean, and easier to dye a variety of colors.

Advantages of Anodizing:

• Durability- Most anodizing parts experience no wear from handling, installation, usage and maintenance adhesion-Anodizing is part of the aluminum for total bonding and unmatched adhesion.
• Color- Anodized parts maintain good color stability when exposed to ultraviolet rays, do not have an applied coating that is subject to chipping or peeling, and have a repeatable coloring process.
• Quality of original finish- Parts are not subject to marking from the original anodizing process.
• Maintenance- Mild soap-and-water cleaning usually will restore an anodized profile to its original appearance.
• Aesthetics- Anodizing offers a large number of gloss and color alternatives, while allowing the metallic appearance of the extruded aluminum to show through.
• Cost- Anodizing is a very cost-effective value compared to other finishing methods. In addition to low processing and maintenance costs, durability minimizes replacement costs.
• Environment, health and safety- Anodizing is favorable towards current environmental regulations because it is one of the most environmentally friendly industrial processes and is typically not harmful to human health. An anodized finish is chemically stable, will not decompose, is nontoxic, and is heat-resistant to the melting point of aluminum. Since the anodizing process is a reinforcement of a naturally occurring oxide process, it is non-hazardous and produces no harmful or dangerous by-products. Chemical baths used in the anodizing process often are reclaimed, recycled, and reused.

Anodized Railings Gallery:

For more information on anodizing for aluminum railings, please see our anodizing page.