Choosing Mill Finish or Anodized? Anodized Aluminum Structurals and the Benefits of an Anodized Product

What is Anodizing?

Anodizing is an electrochemical process that converts the metal surface into a decorative, durable, corrosion-resistant, anodic oxide finish. Aluminum is perfectly suited to anodizing.
The anodic oxide structure originates from the aluminum substrate and is composed entirely of aluminum oxide. This aluminum oxide is not applied to the surface like paint or plating, but is fully integrated with the underlying aluminum substrate, so it cannot chip or peel. It has a highly ordered, porous structure that allows for secondary processes such as coloring and sealing. Immerssing into an acid electrolyte bath and passing an electric current through the medium creates an anodized finish on the aluminum. A cathode is mounted to the inside of the anodizing tank; the aluminum acts as an anode, so that oxygen ions are released from the electrolyte to combine with the aluminum atoms at the surface of the part being anodized. Anodizing is, therefore, a matter of highly controlled oxidation the enhancement of a naturally occurring phenomenon.

Benefits of Anodized Aluminum
• No possibility of fading
• Corrosion and Rust Resistant
• Excellent Abrasion Resistance
• Lower Risk of Adhesion Failure
• Longer Life 40+ Years durability
• Perfect for Outdoor Applications especially if exposed to salt water or near bodies of salt water.

Should I choice Mill Finish or Anodized for My Project?
At Randall Manufacturing Co., Inc we give the customer the choice between Anodized and Mill Finish, on our Aluminum Structural Page which can be found at https://www.randallmanufacturing.com/product-category/structurals most shapes have the choice between mill finish and anodized.
Here we will compare mill finish and anodized structurals:

Shop Aluminum Structural Shapes now at https://www.randallmanufacturing.com/product-category/structurals/