The Many Surprising Uses for Anodized Materials

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Anodizing is an electrochemical process that alters a metal (most commonly aluminum) to make it more durable and resistant to corrosion. The process has been around since the early 1920s, when it was used primarily in architecture. Since that time, anodized materials have been somewhat replaced with cheaper powder coating and plastics. However, anodized materials are still valued for their high levels of resistance to abrasion and corrosion. Anodized aluminum, in particular, is still used in modern architecture and many other projects that require durability and weather-resistance. While the list of uses for anodized materials is long, here are a few industries that rely heavily on the attractive material.

Industrial Uses

Anodizing is often used in industrial settings to produce a protective finish. Industrial anodizing is used to obtain electric insulation, resistance to corrosion, thermal insulation and/or resistance to erosion and wear.  Industrial anodized products include automotive parts, kitchen appliances and washers and dryers.

Architectural Uses

An anodizing tank can be used to add durability and weather-resistance to a wide variety of architectural components. Roofing systems, storefronts and curtain walls are frequently composed of anodized materials. Customers who order anodized products for architectural applications are interested in both the durability and the appearance of the finished product, so the anodizing process must be done to certain standards. The coating quality, thickness and color must all meet certain criteria to be worthy of architectural use.

Decorative Uses

Anodized materials are commonly used in art, cosmetic containers and home products that are designed primarily for aesthetic appeal. A variety of anodized textures can be obtained on aluminum (including mirror-like, matte and brushed finishes) by using different manufacturing processes. Dyes and colorants can also be added during the anodizing process to produce vibrant and stable coloration. Durability may not be as important in decorative uses as visual properties.

The requirements for appearance versus performance in anodized materials differ depending on the industry in which the material is being used. For best results, it’s important to determine the right type of anodized material for your project before you begin.

Industrial UPS Systems

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Thomas & Betts Power Solutions has been a market leader for nearly 50 years. Cyberex industrial UPS systems from Thomas & Betts Power Solutions are reliable and innovative to maximize protection against power failure. An industrial UPS (uninterrupted power supply) must provide an unlimited supply of power just as the name reflects. A power failure could result in failure of a system which could mean disaster. The Cyberwave Single Phase UPS systems are equipped with features that are two firsts in the world for industrial applications. The first is the digitally controlled system and second is the full color touch-screen control panel. The Cyberwave Three Phase UPS system is the optimal solution for applications in power generation, heavy manufacturing processes and oil and gas.

The standard assets on Cyberex UPS systems are unrivaled by any other manufacturer. Other features of the Cyberwave Single Phase UPS systems include IGBT-Based PWM inverter, industrial grade frame/cabinet and a fully rated static switch. All systems are manufactured in accordance with NEMA/UL-1778. The Cyberwave Three Phase UPS systems state of the arts topology includes high online efficiency, advanced patented Cyberex static transfer switch design and standard harmonic mitigating output transformer. Thomas & Betts Power Solutions service doesn’t end with delivery of the sale. They offer a wide range of power quality services for your employees that include extensive instruction, trouble-shooting, and guidance. When you purchase a UPS system from them you can count on these services: start-up; preventative maintenance; and break-fix/emergency response.