What is aluminum anodizing?

Aluminum anodizing changes the surface of aluminum by creating a protective oxide layer, enhancing its properties and appearance.

How does the anodizing process work?

Metal fabricators anodize aluminum by immersing it in an acid solution (chromic, sulfuric, or hard coat sulfuric) and applying an electric current, which stimulates the formation of the oxide layer on the metal's surface. Sulfuric acid anodizing is the least expensive method, including waste treatment, making it the most commonly used. It provides an oxide layer suitable for building material and is porous enough to absorb dyes.

Does anodizing increase resistance to wear and tear?

Yes. During the anodizing process, a durable oxide layer forms as a protective barrier, shielding underlying metal from scratches, abrasion, and other forms of mechanical wear. This makes anodized aluminum well-suited for applications exposed to harsh environments, where maintaining the integrity and appearance of the material over time is essential.

Does anodizing affect the strength of the aluminum?

The thicker the oxide layer, the harder the surface. Hardcoat anodizing uses a stronger acid mixture and a higher voltage, creating a thicker oxide layer while reducing the malleability of the metal. In most cases, anodizing enhances the surface durability and other characteristics while preserving its inherent strength and mechanical properties.

Premium Anodized Aluminum Fabrication

Premium Anodized Aluminum Fabrication In Calgary

Phoenix Metals’ anodizing process increases corrosion resistance. Anodizing creates a hard, wear-resistant surface layer that protects the underlying aluminum so it can retain its appearance for longer.

Give Your Project A Modern Look With Unmatched Corrosion Resistance

Anodized aluminum offers a sleek and contemporary aesthetic that elevates any project. Sophistication and innovation with its smooth, metallic finish and colour options captivate the eye.

Anodized aluminum provides unmatched corrosion resistance, ensuring longevity and reliability with a protective oxide layer on the aluminum’s surface. It creates a barrier shielding against moisture, chemicals, and other corrosive elements, making it ideal for projects subject to outdoor exposure, high humidity, or corrosive atmospheres.

Anodized aluminum is versatile for projects of any scale and is a favourite among designers looking to give their creations a cutting-edge appeal. Enjoy the peace of mind that comes with superior corrosion resistance, ensuring lasting beauty and performance for years to come.

Features and benefits of Anodized Aluminum Fabrication

Increased Durability

Anodized aluminum fabrication provides superior durability compared to untreated aluminum. During the anodization process, a protective oxide layer forms on the surface of the aluminum, increasing its resistance to corrosion, scratches, and wear. This makes anodized aluminum preferred for applications exposed to harsh environments or frequent use, ensuring longevity and reducing maintenance costs.

Aesthetic Enhancement

Phoenix Metals’ anodized aluminum fabrication offers various colour options to suit design preferences and branding requirements. The anodizing process allows pigments to integrate into the oxide layer, resulting in durable, fade-resistant colours that enhance the visual appeal of aluminum components.

Environmental Sustainability

This type of metal aligns with sustainability goals due to its eco-friendly characteristics. The anodizing process is non-toxic and produces minimal waste, making most by-products easily recyclable. The enhanced durability of anodized aluminum reduces frequent replacements, contributing to resource conservation and minimizing its environmental footprint.

Improved Surface Properties

Anodized aluminum fabrication enhances the surface properties of aluminum components, providing increased hardness, less friction, and electrical insulation (the aluminum-oxide layer doesn’t conduct electricity). The smoother, more uniform finish also makes cleaning and maintenance easier.

Preserve the Natural Metallic Appearance Of Your Aluminum

Make your next aluminum project look better and last longer by choosing Phoenix Metals’ anodized aluminum panels. Fabrication occurs in their state-of-the-art facility, and the anodizing process turns out premium quality products suitable for residential, commercial, industrial, and agricultural applications.

Calgary’s Phoenix Metals is your trusted partner for quality materials, service, installation, and customer service.

Get a free quote

Frequently Asked Questions

What is aluminum anodizing?

Aluminum anodizing changes the surface of aluminum by creating a protective oxide layer, enhancing its properties and appearance.
How does the anodizing process work?

Metal fabricators anodize aluminum by immersing it in an acid solution (chromic, sulfuric, or hard coat sulfuric) and applying an electric current, which stimulates the formation of the oxide layer on the metal's surface. Sulfuric acid anodizing is the least expensive method, including waste treatment, making it the most commonly used. It provides an oxide layer suitable for building material and is porous enough to absorb dyes.
Does anodizing increase resistance to wear and tear?

Yes. During the anodizing process, a durable oxide layer forms as a protective barrier, shielding underlying metal from scratches, abrasion, and other forms of mechanical wear. This makes anodized aluminum well-suited for applications exposed to harsh environments, where maintaining the integrity and appearance of the material over time is essential.
Does anodizing affect the strength of the aluminum?

The thicker the oxide layer, the harder the surface. Hardcoat anodizing uses a stronger acid mixture and a higher voltage, creating a thicker oxide layer while reducing the malleability of the metal. In most cases, anodizing enhances the surface durability and other characteristics while preserving its inherent strength and mechanical properties.