Oxidizing Alumnium

By Lawrence (*****)

Date 06-28-2007 16:10

Your aluminum became oxidized the moment you stop removing oxides... The process of oxidation of aluminum begins instantly and over a short time slows as the oxide layer thickens.

My question would be; Why does your engineer not know this? :)

By reddoggoose (**)

Date 06-28-2007 16:57

Do you mean oxidized or anodized. Aluminum forms a passive oxide layer that protects the material from corrosion. Like Lawerence said the moment you stop polishing of the oxide layer it will start to reform. Anodize is essentially an oxide layer that is colored, and will help prevent corrosion, but looks more appealing.

By drifter57 (**)

Date 06-28-2007 17:37

They want the dull gray finish look again. Wear pads run on this and they say it is a harder layer with the the oxidized gray look to it. How long will it take to acheive this or will it?

By reddoggoose (**)

Date 06-28-2007 17:49

It will oxidize again, may take a little time depending on how thick the oxide layer will become. Judging by the rate of oxidation on the wheels of my truck, some water and salt would probably help it along . (chlorine will help speed up the oxidization)

By aevald

Date 06-28-2007 17:52

Hello drifter57, if they are truly after a surface condition that is "harder", having it anodized will indeed give the surface more resistance to wear than just simply letting it oxidize on it's own. IMHO. Regards, aevald

By Molten Metal (**)

Date 06-29-2007 03:03

There is " Hard-Anodizing".You can get it in almost any color nowdays.To tell you the truth,I've never -ever heard of an engineer or anyone else for that matter,wanting thier aluminum "oxidized".Like everyone else has said.it will oxidize from moment one.I really am having a hard time envisioning this logic by your engineer...hmmm.

By DaveBoyer (*****)

Date 06-29-2007 03:08 Edited 06-29-2007 03:13

If they want a really durable surface ask for type 3 hardcoat anodising,one trade name is Martincoat. It is a grey/green color and much thicker & durable than a natural oxide or normal anodizing. I don't think the natural oxide layer will add apreciably to the wear resistance. You can get a kit to do small parts in house, but for the type 3 hardcoat You will need to send out to a jobber.