Preventing Aluminium Corrosion

Corrosion is the process where a refined metal naturally converts to a more stable form. This form can include oxide, hydroxide or sulphide which eventually leads to the deterioration of the materials. 

Aluminium Corrosion is therefore the process of decay in Aluminium molecules. This is, however, a slow process and can take many months or years to form. There are also many types of corrosion which are important in dictating how to prevent or slow down the process. 

The difference between rusting and corroding can depend on the material used. For example, rusting will occur in iron whereas corroding occurs on ceramics or polymers. Although both processes result in the disintegration of a material, it’s important to know the differences so you can resolve the issue effectively. 

• Rusting only occurs on iron metal-based materials 
• Rusting may appear red or orange 
• Corrosion appears on different surfaces 
• Rusting is caused by moist air, corrosion is caused by any chemical
• Corrosion can be different colours 

In short, technically no aluminium doesn’t rust. Aluminium is known for being strong, lightweight and able to last the test of time and weathering as it doesn’t rust.

Why it doesn’t rust is a very interesting thought. Aluminium in its purest form is a very reactive metal, it can dissolve when exposed to water. However, it is this reactive nature that acts as its saving grace. When aluminium is exposed to air, water or soil aluminium reacts with the oxygen and creates a thin coat of aluminium oxide which chemically bonds to the surface of the metal. This hardens and doesn’t flake which helps to keep the metal from rusting or corroding.

Atmospheric Corrosion

Acting as the most common form, this process occurs as a result of natural element exposure. The cause of Atmospheric corrosion means that it can appear in most places and environments. This process is then divided into three subcategories wet, dry and damp depending on the moisture levels of the surroundings. 

Other factors which can cause atmospheric corrosion include wind direction, temperature, precipitation, pollution, water bodies and design drainage. 

Galvanic

Also named dissimilar metal corrosion, galvanic corrosion can affect aluminium when it is either physically or electronically connected to noble metal. The positioning of the noble metal can also have an impact on the severity. 

Galvanic can be a much quicker process. 

Pitting 

Pitting is the process whereby a surface forms small holes or pits on its surface. Although these pits don’t necessarily affect the overall strength of the product, it forms more of an aesthetic issue. 

This normally occurs in regions where salt is present in the air. 

Crevice Corrosion 

This is the form of localised corrosion. Crevice happens when there have been overlapping or unintentional design mistakes. Small gaps in designs can kick start this process and the material will eventually dissolve. 

Intergranular

By also starting out as a pit, intergranular corrosion occurs much quicker and can also perform at different degrees in different aluminium alloys. 

Stress Cracking 

This is a form of intergranular corrosion and can result in the complete failure of a part. For an aluminium part to experience this type of corrosion, they will have high yield strength, have a humid or wet service environment or experience tensile stress. 

Exfoliation 

This form can be found in aluminium alloys that have marked directional structures, particularly products that have undergone hot or cold rolling. It can also look slightly different, with a more voluminous surface through expansion and sideways. 

General Corrosion 

General Corrosion takes place on an aluminium surface and occurs when a product is exposed to highly acidic conditions or electrolytes. 

Deposition 

When a dissimilar metal is deposited on an aluminium surface. It’s also worth mentioning that this is caused by acidic solutions rather than alkaline solutions. 

Erosion 

Erosion is caused by high-speed water jets. This can be avoided by reducing the water velocity or maintaining water quality. 

Fatigue 

Fatigue cracks act as initiation sites for the pitting process. When the material is repeatedly exposed to minimal stress for a long period of time and also cannot occur without water in the atmosphere, fatigue begins to appear. 

Microbiological Induced 

This is caused by microorganisms and fungi, typically noticed in fuel and oil tanks. Sometimes, these organisms can consume oil and acid which leads to both putting and leakage. 

Although corrosion is extremely hard to stay away from, there are still many steps to prevent it from occurring or potentially becoming harmful. 

• Apply a protective coating  – paint, powder coat or anodize 
• Consider the grade of aluminium 
• Prevent galvanic 
• Surface treatments 
• Regular cleaning of surfaces
• Avoid areas where water can accumulate
• Plenty of ventilation

To keep your windows looking brand new, have a read through our blog on how to care for aluminium windows and keep corrosion dirt, dust and bacteria away!

ABS is a UK based manufacturer and installer of aluminium windows, offering a much longer lifespan compared to the use of uPVC or wooden windows. We offer the production of curved/arched windows and doors, gothic arch and aluminium round windows.

If you’re a business or property owner looking to upgrade your look, check out your options and give us a call on 01623 721 172