Anodised aluminium is robust, versatile and easy to maintain. Due to the high resistance against solar radiation, chemical substances, scratches and humidity, this material ia popular both for indoor and outdoor application. Therefore, it is not surprising that this all-rounder is omnipresent in our lives and that is firmly established in the material lists for the industry as well as for household appliances and everyday objects.
During the anodising process, it is possible to create a thin or thick oxide layer. Relatively thick anodised layers (20 - 25 µm) mainly serve as corrosion protection in the building industry but also in the automotive industry and for household appliances.
Thin layers of 8 - 20 µm can be dyed and are mainly used for decorative purposes. This way, anodised aluminium is used as a surface for mp3-players, jewellery or other everyday object. Moreover, thin anodised layers ensure an improved heat dissipation for cooling elements.
In screen printing or anodised printing, the anodised aluminium is processed without being sealed. This means that the aluminium is not treated with hot water after the anodisation. This way, the pores of the aluminium remain open. The dyes are applied and only after that, the aluminium is sealed in hot water, locking the dye inside the pores. After this process, the material is solvent-resistant and scratch-proof.