Aluminium Anodising

Custom Profiles are able to supply anodised aluminium in either long lengths, or anodised after cutting and machining. As well as the popular natural silver finish we are also able to supply in a variety of colours including black, bronzes, golds, blues and greens.

Anodising aluminium is an electrochemical process used to produce durable and decorative finishes on components made of aluminium or aluminium-based alloys. Extrusions that are anodised have an aesthetically appealing visual finish. The high quality smooth surface will not peel or chip and is easy to clean. These properties enable anodised aluminium extrusions to be used in the following applications: curtain walling and windows, electrical components, lighting, poster frames, machinery parts, heatsinks, office furniture and many more.

Further benefits of anodised aluminium are:

• Even matt or semi matt appearance
• Corrosion prevention
• Dirt repellent surface for high hygiene
• Smooth Surface
• Electric insulating surface
• Good basis for adherence of glue and paint
• Easy to recycle

Aluminium, in an untreated form produces a protective oxide coating on exposure to the atmosphere. This coating is inherently protective, but very thin and can be thickened by the anodising process. The aluminium anodising process can increase between 5 microns to 25 microns this naturally occurring oxide layer. How much you need to thicken the oxide layer will depend on the demands of your application.

Anodised Aluminium Extrusion Guidelines

• Aluminium extrusions used for indoor applications such as picture frames usually only require 5 to 10 microns thickness unless colour anodising is specified which will require a greater layer thickness.
• Aluminium extrusions used for external applications such as curtain walling usually require 15-20 microns.
• Aluminium extrusions used in polluted or harsh environments can require 25 microns.