Oxidation Aluminium Production Methods
Aluminium oxidation, commonly known as anodizing, is a process used to increase the surface protection of aluminum products. Oxidizing aluminum can create a range of finishes, from matte to glossy, and the anodized layer on aluminum provides better scratch and chemical resistance than the untreated surface. It is a relatively simple process and can dramatically improve the appearance and long-term performance of aluminum products.
Aluminium oxidation occurs when a current is passed through a tank containing an aluminium alloy. This flow of electric current induces a strong electrochemical reaction between the alloy and an electrolyte, usually acids or bases. The electric current causes electrons to be removed from the aluminum atoms and replaced with ions from the electrolyte. These ions form a tightly bonded organic layer on the aluminum surface, protecting it from corrosion and wear.
The first step of aluminium oxidation is pre-treatment. The aluminum alloy must be properly cleaned and pre-treated before undergoing oxidation. This includes grit blasting the surface to prepare it for the oxidation process. Grit blasting creates micro-hairs on the surface of the aluminium, which allows the anodization process to better penetrate the alloy and form an even coating.
Once the surface is prepared, the next step is to add a bath of acids or bases to the tank for anodizing. The bath should contain several components that react to the electric current and create an anodized layer. These components include acids, bases, and salts. For example, one of the most common types of aluminium oxidation is sulfuric acid anodizing. To create a sulfuric acid bath, sulfuric acid and either aluminum sulfate or ammonium sulfate are added to the tank. The electrolyte charges the aluminum particles, creating an anodization layer that coats the aluminum surface.
After the bath is added to the tank, the aluminum alloy is placed inside the tank and connected to an anode. This process may take several hours, while different electric currents are passed through the tank. Depending on the desired finish, the current may range from a few amps to several thousand amps. As the current passes through the aluminum alloy, the anodized coating forms an organic protective barrier that is corrosion and wear resistant.
When the process is done, the aluminum alloy is removed from the tank and rinsed off. The bath remains in the tank for the next cycle of aluminum oxidation. It is important to maintain the acidity and electrolysis levels of the bath in order to get the best results from the anodizing. After rinsing, the aluminum may be further treated with a sealant that further strengthens the anodized layer and gives the aluminum product the desired finish.
With the right tools and techniques, aluminium oxidation is an effective and efficient process to improve the appearance and performance of aluminum products. The process creates an organic anodization layer that is highly resistant to corrosion and wear, and can significantly increase the life of the product. This process is fairly simple and can be easily done at home with a few simple steps to following. With a few simple steps, aluminium oxidation can help to protect, preserve, and beautify aluminum products.
