![]() On of the more common methods of protecting aluminum is the use of clear coating, where a protective layer is pre-installed at the factory. Photo Credit: Micah Wright Is there a way to prevent aluminum from pitting and corroding?įortunately, there are several ways of protecting an aluminum surface from the damages associated with pitting and corrosion. Media blasted aluminum automotive and motorcycle components, sitting in bins prior to receiving a protective powder coating. This oxidized outer layer is not detrimental to the alloy, as it forms a shell-like barrier that prevents pitting from forming. Quick Nerd Note: Aluminum alloys naturally form a smooth layer of surface oxidation measuring anywhere from 0.001 to 0.0025 of an inch in thickness. Like many other materials, aluminum is only as strong as its weakest link, so when pitting forms in a particular area, it will eventually spread both outward and inward if not neutralized and/or removed. ![]() In layman’s terms, aluminum pitting and corrosion begins when surface flaws allow contaminants and moisture to creep into crevices. While this nerd jargon will more than likely trigger nods of affirmation from all of the science buffs who are reading this article, those of us who snoozed through chemistry class will likely require an abbreviated version. The anode is the material which corrodes.” -Fastenal When two metals are in contact with each other in the presence of some electrolyte, the less active metal will act as the cathode and attract electrons from the anode. “ Corrosion can be thought of as an electro-chemical action in which one metal is changed into a chemical or simply eaten away. So if aluminum won’t rust, why does it corrode?įor the answer to this puzzling question, we turn toward none other than Minnesota-based bolt and hardware specialist, Fastenal, who provides us with the following explanation. Aluminum is also super lightweight, which from a manufacturing standpoint, makes it incredibly easy to transport and manipulate. Quick Nerd Note: According to a report by Monroe Engineering, aluminum accounts for about 8% of all elements in the Earth’s crust, making it the most readily available metal. While both of these cancers consume metal at a snail’s pace, they are a royal pain in the ass to remove, and can be a challenge to quarantine if allowed to embed in a surface. Instead, aluminum is susceptible to something called “corrosion,” which if allowed to fester, can also be quite detrimental.Īs aluminum corrodes, it forms lesions on its surface and slowly begins to weaken, much like how a rust-riddled piece of iron slowly becomes brittle over time. One of the main reasons for its popularity, is that aluminum does not contain iron, and therefore will never rust. From automobiles, airplanes, farming equipment, roofing materials, assault weapons, and elevators, to electronics, hardware, appliances, and that can of craft beer you’re sipping… aluminum’s applications are endless. Today, you can find aluminum in virtually every aspect of daily human life. Photo Credit: Micah Wright Wait… Isn’t Aluminum Supposed to Never Rust?īalancing strength and lightweight rigidity with rust resistance and ductility, aluminum alloys are modern man’s space-age material. In order to keep aluminum looking and performing at its best, you have to start somewhere, and a good place to begin is with the right information.Īluminum corrosion can happen to pretty much any component on a car, as even things like powder coated center caps aren’t safe. In the following sub-sections, we will cover the common causes of aluminum pitting and corrosion, as well as a few of our favorite removal and preventative maintenance tips. ![]() But for whatever reason we have yet to tackle the topic of aluminum pitting and corrosion… until now. Over the years, we’ve covered everything from undercarriage rust removal and protection tips, to discussing the side-effects of road salt and de-icing sprays. Regardless as to whether you prefer planes and trains, or boats and automobiles, we all rely upon modes of transportation to get from one place to another.ĭespite their differences, all four of these forms of transit are susceptible to corrosion and rust, and yes, there is a difference between these cancerous occurrences. ![]()
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