SERVICES
WHAT IS ANODIZING ?
ANODIZING :
Sulfuric Acid Anodizing : most frequently used type of anodizing, this process will generate decorative and protective surfaces. This process adds minimal hardness and abrasion resistance. Sulfuric anodized film can be colored prior to sealing. Sulfuric anodize provides a minimum of 336 hours of 5% salt spray resistance per ASTM B117.
Anodizing ranges from .0001'' - .001'' thick; the overall thickness of the coating formed mainly in penetration of the substrate (67%). Considering the preparation of the part, etch and deoxidized, there is no modification of the final dimensions of the part.
APPLICATION :
Used in architectural extrusions and sheets, external structures (curtain wall), optical components, hydraulic valves bodies, as well as military applications, computers and electronic enclosures, mechanical hardware or paint/prime base.
SULFURIC ACID ANODIZING (SAA)
OUR PROCESS
ELECTROLYTIC COLORING
Electrolytic coloring also known as two step anodizing, provides a range of architectural colors such as champagne, light browns, browns, dark browns and black. This type of coloring is durable, resistant to weather elements and has thermal stability.
ACID ETCH
Acid etch provides an effective solution to minimize or eliminate dye lines, flow lines and minor defects. It provides a superior cosmetic appearance to clear and colored anodized products. The treatment will result in a matte finish and provide a more consistent and uniform appearance for repeat orders. Acid etch is an environmentally friendly solution as it results in much lower metal loss during the process. The sludge related to the process is 90% less etching compared to standard caustic etching. Acid etching also conserves water, using lower amounts during the rinsing process. Some of the processes' by-products are also recyclable and can be reused as one the components that is made into aluminum.
BRUSHING
Our Brushing solution provides a distinct decorative look as well as an effective method to eliminate minor surface defects. It can also eliminate minor surface corrosion. We provide brushing services on both aluminum sheets and extrusions.
CHALLENGES
THE FOLLOWING ARE THE MOST COMMON CHALLENGES THAT OUR CLIENTS FACE WITH ALUMINUM ANODIZING
AND OUR SOLUTIONS OFFERED.
EXTRUSION LINES
CONTACT POINT AND MOUNTING MARK
CORROSION AND WATER
SURFACE DEFECT PRIOR TO ANODIZING
EXTRUSION LINES
Extrusion lines are considered as a surface defect and will not be totally hidden by anodizing. They are caused by the wear of extrusion tools and unfortunately they will not disappear during processes. However, our acid etch solution will greatly reduce the appearance of lines. Our brushing service will also eliminate extrusion dye lines.
CONTACT POINT AND MOUNTING MARK
As your parts must be mounted on stands to be submerged in different solutions, and for anodizing, an electrical current will flow through your parts. There is no treatment without contact point and mounting mark. This being said, we make sure to minimize the visual impact and functionality of the latter and require your cooperation in order to properly identify the desired location in critical cases.
SURFACE DEFECT PRIOR TO ANODIZING
Anodizing will not hide surface defects. Unfortunately, anodizing tends to amplify the minor defects (holes and scratches). However, an aggressive etch could in some cases blend the surface finish but never eliminate it.
CORROSION AND WATER
Aluminum surfaces oxidize naturally in the free air. The presence of water or coolant will cause stains which are very likely to appear even after the treatments. Our recommendation is to protect and clean the aluminum before and after the operations. In case of a surface and minor corrosion, light brushing could be a great solution.
DESCRIPTION
ADVANTAGE
WARRANTY
ENVIRONMENT
COLORS VARIATION
MAINTENANCE AND CARE
DESCRIPTION
Anodizing is a surface treatment which allows to protect or to color aluminum by anodic oxidation. It allows greater resistance to UV, wear, to corrosion and abrasion.
ADVANTAGES
Anodizing remains the process for increased longevity and superior resistance to UV, abrasion and corrosion.
WARRANTY
Our warranty is based on the standards of AAMA (American Architectural Manufacturers Association).
ENVIRONMENT
Respecting our environment is a priority at MAS. Aluminum is easily recyclable and the choice of anodizing process does not impose any constraints when it comes time to recycle. In addition, this process is the most ecological, because it has virtually no adverse effect on the environment.
COLOR VARIATION
We ensure that anodizing colors will not vary more than 4dE compared to supplied sample.
MAINTENANCE AND CARE
Anodizing remains the best process for increased longevity and superior resistance to UV, corrosion and abrasion.
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Wash with clean warm water and wipe with a soft cloth.
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Wash with mild soap or non-alkaline detergent and scrub with a brush, rinse and wipe with soft cloth.
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Wash with water and mild abrasive powder such as "ajax", "vim". Rub with a cloth, always in the same direction, rinse with clean water and wipe with a soft cloth. Use a solvent for non-water soluble deposits such as "varsol", "M.E.K."