Cleaning Aluminum: How to clean anodized metal aluminium
Anodized surfaces are produced by the anodic oxidation of aluminium. The process creates an oxide layer on the metal surface with a very high hardness (Mohs hardness of 9, cf. diamond = 10). Anodized surfaces do not corrode, protect against mechanical impact and are relatively insensitive to the effects of weathering. However, if anodized surfaces are not cleaned and not maintained over a longer period of time, the effects of the weather will also leave their mark.
This oxide layer not only protects the metal from external influences, but also increases its hardness and abrasion resistance. Together with aluminum oxide, aluminum hydroxide forms a protective layer that can trap dirt and dust particles.
Regular maintenance cleaning with subsequent preservation must therefore also be carried out on anodized aluminium. The interval depends on the location and weather conditions. After approx. 10 years at the latest, basic cleaning and preservation should be carried out to avoid major damage and prevent expensive renovation of the building parts.
The surface consists of façade elements made of anodized aluminium. The oxide layer has been attacked by many years of environmental influences. To prevent this, regular cleaning with subsequent preservation is essential to maintain the value and keep the appearance as good as new. Cleaning was carried out here with GRUNDREINIGER & KONSERVIERER GR-K-M.
BEFORE / AFTER
Application BASE CLEANER AND CONSERVATIVE CLEANER METALS GR-K-M
Apply pure with cleaning pad and process.
Then rinse with REINIGER VARIO RV (1:10) and rinse with water.
Recommendation: Follow with long-term preservation with:
Application KONSERVIERER K2-VARIO
Only use on a clean and dry surface. Apply pure with a cotton cloth and polish with a polishing cloth.
Definition of aluminium and anodizing
Aluminum is a versatile light metal that is used in many areas due to its excellent corrosion resistance and its ability to form a protective oxide layer. In anodizing, also known as anodic oxidation, aluminium is treated in an electrolytic bath, creating a durable and corrosion-resistant layer of aluminium oxide. This oxide layer not only protects the metal from external influences, but also increases its hardness and abrasion resistance.
Anodized aluminium offers numerous advantages that make it a preferred material in architecture and design. The anodized layer significantly improves corrosion resistance and protects the aluminium from weathering and mechanical damage. In addition, the surface is abrasion-resistant and can be designed in various colors and patterns, which opens up additional aesthetic possibilities. These properties make anodized aluminium a durable and attractive choice for façades, window frames and many other applications.