Page 12 - Metro Glass Catalogue

Anodizing is the process of electrochemically controlling, accelerating and enhancing oxidation of an aluminum substrate. The anodizing process, because it is an integral part of the substrate, produces an oxide film that is uniform, hard and protects the rest of the aluminum substrate from deterioration - providing excellent wear and abrasion resistance with minimal maintenance in most environments.
The coating produced is extremely durable, and the hardness of the surface is comparable to a sapphire--the second hardest substance on earth. This characteristic makes anodize an excellent choice for use in high-traffic areas where resistance properties are important.
Anodized aluminum resists the ravages of time, temperature, corrosion, humidity and warping, adding to its long life cycle. Anodized aluminum is an inert material that is not combustible, 100% recyclable and poses no health risks.
Electrolytic Two-Step Anodizing Process
The typical anodizing employed in the architectural industry is called two-step electrolytic.” The actual anodizing and coloring of the aluminum occur in separate steps of the process. The anodizing step takes place in a tank that contains a solution of sulfuric acid and water. The tank is charged with electrical current and aluminum oxide is formed on the surface of the aluminum.
After anodizing is complete, the parts can be immersed in an optional coloring tank, to achieve bronze or black tones instead of the standard clear or silver finish. In the coloring tank, the anodized aluminum is immersed in a bath containing an inorganic metal such as tin, cobalt or nickel, which is deposited in the anodic pores by means of electrolytic current. The amount of time the part is immersed will determine the color achieved. Darker colors are created by extending the immersion time and increasing metal deposition. The colors commonly seen on architectural products range from champagne to dark bronze and black.
Architectural Class I and Class II Anodize
Class I and Class II anodic coatings are designations created by the Aluminum Association for the purpose of codifying the specification of anodized aluminum.
Class I coating has a mil thickness of 0.7 (18 microns) or greater
Class II coating has a minimum mil thickness of 0.4 (10 microns)
Class I coating is a high performance anodic finish used primarily for exterior building products and other products that must withstand continuous outdoor exposure.
Class II coating is a commercial anodic finish recommended for interior applications or light exterior applications receiving regularly scheduled cleaning and maintenance such as storefronts.
Coating thickness can be measured by an "eddy current", a nondestructive test instrument, or by cutting a cross-section of the anodized aluminum, mounting it in a slide, polishing the edge, and reading the coating thickness directly with a microscope.
Class I and Class II coatings should not be confused with Type I, Type II, and Type III anodic coatings as described in the authoritative anodizing standard, MIL-A-8625. Type I anodize refers to chromic acid anodizing. Type II is normal "clear" sulfuric acid anodizing. Type III is "hardcoat" using sulfuric acid or mixed chemistry electrolytes.things.
METRO GLASS CARRIES ONLY CLASS 1 ANODIZED ALUMINUM
50 Years of Manufacturing Innovative Aluminum Doors, Frames, Curtain Walls, Windows and Vents
Bay 108 - 1626 115 Ave. N.E. Calgary, Alberta T3K 2E4 Phone: 403-250-9290 Fax: 403-291-0599 Toll Free: Phone: 1-877-919-0906 Fax: 1-877-919-0905
www.metroglass.ca