WHAT SURFACE TREATMENTS ARE THERE FOR ALUMINIUM PANEL?

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A surface treatment consists of a coating or a process in which a coating is applied to or in the material. There are various surface treatments available for aluminium panel, each with its own purposes and practical use..acm panels

As such, the treatments can be used to protect the surface of the material, but also to embellish it or to ensure better adhesion if it requires gluing or painting.

In this blog we will discuss the most common surface treatments for aluminium panel: anodising, powder coating and wet painting.

Anodising Aluminium Panel

When anodising aluminium panel, an electrochemical process is used to form an oxide layer in/on the material. As such, this oxide film forms a protective layer in/on the aluminium panel.

What’s interesting about this, is that no additional layer is applied to the aluminium panel when anodising. This is because anodising provides a protective layer that is built up from the already existing aluminium panel. The oxide film is fully integrated into the aluminium board, thanks to a strong molecular connection.

brushed aluminum signs

The main reason for anodising is to protect the aluminium board. Thanks to the anodising process, corrosion resistance increases and the material retains its appearance for longer. The hard, wear-resistant anodising layer that is created protects the underlying aluminium board, making it a more durable end product.

The oxide layer can also have great decorative value. Anodisation also makes it possible for aluminium board to take on various attractive colours. While the unique metal character of the appearance is retained, it also acquires a nice look. The aluminium board is therefore not only better protected, but also embellished.

Want to know more about anodising? Then read our detailed blog about anodising aluminium board.

POWDER COATING Aluminium Panel

To provide the aluminium board with a decorative and protective layer, a powder coating can be opted for. After a number of pre-treatments, which include degreasing and rinsing, the powder coating is applied by means of an electrostatic process.

aluminum composite panel

Because, unlike with wet paint, no solvents are used when applying the powder coating, it is also a more environmentally friendly alternative. On the other hand, the end result following powder coating is slightly rougher, as the texture of the granules used remains somewhat visible.

WET PAINT

Wet paint is an interesting alternative where aesthetics takes precedence. It produces the best end product, as a much smoother result is achieved. Also, certain decorative effects that are not feasible with powder coating, can be applied to wet paint.

What’s also convenient, is that with this surface treatment there are no maximum dimensions to take into account. This is the case with powder coating, as a spray booth is used. As this is not needed for wet paint, maximum dimensions of the aluminium board to be coated don’t require consideration. That is why wet paint is a practical solution for colouring large aluminium parts.

PRE-TREATMENT IS ESSENTIAL

Whether you opt for anodising, powder coating or wet paint; the right pre-treatment is always very important. Without the pre-treatment, the anodising layer, powder coating or wet paint may not adhere well to or integrate into the aluminium plate, causing it to peel off quickly or not be evenly applied.

To ensure optimum adhesion, the aluminium plate is passed through a spray tunnel, or the material passes through several baths in which it is degreased and stained. A conversion layer is applied in a final bath, which ensures that the best possible adhesion or integration can occur between the aluminium plate and the anodising layer, paint or coating.

 

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