FAQs

Anodizing is a process of electrolytic passivation, greatly increasing and enhancing the oxide layer that naturally forms on aluminum.

What are the advantages of anodized aluminum?

An anodized surface actually improves the natural aluminum surface, making it more attractive, scratch resistant, corrosion resistant, and giving it the ability to add color the natural aluminum surface.

What applications utilize anodized aluminum?

The number of applications is virtually unlimited. Some applications are: reflectors, appliance and automotive trim, decorative trim, signage, cookware,  interior architectural, ceiling panels, nameplates, and electronic uses.

Why would someone choose anodized aluminum?

Anodized aluminum is chosen for its decorative and functional properties, when bare or coated aluminum is doesn’t have sufficient performance, doesn’t provide sufficient protection, or doesn’t have the desired aesthetic properties.

Are there other metals besides aluminum that can be anodized?

Metals like magnesium and titanium can be anodized, but they do not have the same advantages found in anodized aluminum.

Is the anodizing process/product environmentally friendly?

The anodizing process is very environmentally friendly.  Unlike other metal treatments, there are heavy metals, halogens, or volatile chemicals used in the process.  The anodized aluminum itself is 100% recyclable.

Does anodizing affect the mechanical properties of the aluminum substrate?

Generally speaking, anodizing has no effect on the mechanical properties of the aluminum substrate.

What aluminum alloys are recommended for anodizing?

ACA stocks high-purity alloys for the best anodized results.  Typical alloys are 1090, 5657, 5005, and 5205.

Is an anodized surface easy to clean?

Anodized aluminum can be easily cleaned with most common cleaning solutions, or even just water.  Caustic solutions should be avoided.

Can anodized aluminum be easily formed?

Anodized aluminum can be easily formed.  Severe forming can cause crazing, a whitening of the anodized layer as it is stretched that can be visually objectionable.

Does ACA only sell anodized coil and sheets?

While virtually any aluminum shape can be anodized, ACA is a continuous coil anodizer, which means we anodize only coiled aluminum.  ACA sells coils, sheets, and blanks.

What is Bright Dipping?

Bright Dipping or chemical brightening, is an electrochemical process that smooths and brightens the suface of the aluminum sheet.

Is anodized a superior surface for bonding/laminating?

Conventional anodize aluminum is an excellent substrate for coating, bonding, or laminating.  In addition, ACA manufactures UltraBond, a very special anodized surface that provides the ultimate in adhesion.

Why is anodized aluminum the preferred surface for commercial lighting applications?

The durable, highly reflective, static-free surface of anodized aluminum his preferred for its high performance at an economical cost. Anodized aluminum can be stamped, cut, and formed without fear of the finish scratching, peeling, or cracking.

What is Total Reflectance (TR)?

Total reflectance is the measurement of the total amount visible light that is reflected off a surface.

What is Specular Reflectance?

Specular Reflectance is the reflection of light from a surface in which light from a single incoming direction is reflected in a single outgoing direction, without diffusion of light.

Does ACA carry other lighting finishes besides anodized aluminum?

In addition to a wide variety of anodized aluminum surfaces, ACA also supplies Super UltraWhite LED and Super UltraBrite 95 (PVD – Physical Vapor Deposition) high reflectance enhanced aluminum on a variety of surfaces, High Reflectance Gloss and Matte White Painted aluminum and steel.

Where is anodized aluminum used for architectural applications?

Anodized aluminum is unmatched for the durable, elegant look of real metal.  Available is a variety of surfaces and colors, anodized aluminum is a smart choice for interior architectural applications.

Can it be used for exterior applications?

Anodized aluminum can be used for exterior applications, but the heavy anodic layer required for corrosion resistance can detract from the attractive metal look.

Does ACA have a product with unique bonding properties?

ACA’s Ultrabond is the ultimate surface for coating, laminating, or bonding.  UltraBond provides fantastic adhesion without sacrificing the decorative metal look.