Anodized Aluminum. Clean anodized profiles for building use.
Anodizing in Simple Words
Anodizing is a finish for aluminum. It grows a hard layer of aluminum oxide on the surface. This layer is part of the metal. It is not paint, so it does not peel the way paint can.
Anodized aluminum resists rust and wear. It can also take color. You can see it on window frames, machine parts, brackets, electronic cases and kitchen tools. Read about our work on the anodizing page.
How Anodizing Works
First we clean the aluminum. Then the part goes into an acid tank with electric current on. The surface changes into a hard oxide layer with tiny pores. If the part needs color, the pores take in dye. Last we seal the pores so the finish stays strong.
Main Types
| Type | Look | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Clear Anodizing | Natural silver color | Frames, panels, brackets |
| Colored Anodizing | Dyed shades such as gold, red or blue | Decor, signs, consumer items |
| Black Anodizing | Deep black matte or satin | Machine parts, camera and electronic cases |
| Hardcoat Anodizing | Dark gray, very thick and very hard | Pistons, moving parts, heavy wear |
Why Use Anodizing
Strong Surface
The layer is very hard and handles scratches better than paint.
Rust Protection
The oxide layer protects aluminum from weather and salty air.
Lasting Color
Dyed color sits inside the layer, so it does not flake off.
Clean Look
The metal still shows through, so brushed and satin looks stay visible.
Anodizing Compared With Paint
Here is a short comparison.
| Point | Anodizing | Paint or Powder Coat |
|---|---|---|
| Bond | Part of the metal | Sits on top of the metal |
| Peeling | Does not peel | Can chip and peel |
| Metal Look | Metal texture stays visible | Hides the metal |
| Color Choices | Good, but more limited | Almost unlimited |
| Base Metal | Aluminum only | Many metals |
Limits To Know
Anodizing works on aluminum only. It cannot be used on steel or brass. Different aluminum alloys can take color slightly differently, so parts from different batches may not match exactly.
The layer is thin, so sizes change only a little. Tell us if your part has tight size limits. For steel parts, ask about zinc plating, nickel plating or black oxide instead.
Frequently Asked Questions
It does not peel like paint because it is part of the metal. A hard hit or deep scratch can still wear through it.
No. Anodizing is only for aluminum and a few rare metals. Steel and brass need other finishes such as plating.
A little. The layer is thin, so tell us if your part has tight size limits.
Many colors are possible, such as black, gold, red and blue. Very bright colors can be harder to match from batch to batch.
Use a soft cloth with mild soap and water. Avoid strong acids, bleach and rough pads.
Need Help With Your Project?
Send us photos, sizes and quantity. Our team will suggest the right finish and send a quote.
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