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Aluminium Finishing Options
Aluminium is a popular choice in the sign industry due to its unique qualities. The strength to weight ratio, malleability and natural corrosion resistance provide a fantastic base material to create sign blanks, sign posts, profiles and channel which become the foundation of many sign systems available in the UK.
When choosing aluminium components for your project or sign installation it is important to understand the different surface finishes available. Aluminium finishing techniques are employed to enhance the appearance, protect against corrosion, and improve the overall performance of the product. Each surface finish have advantages and disadvantages that can really make a difference to the final installation.
Different Aluminium Finishes
Mill Finish (bare aluminium)
Mill finish aluminium refers to the surface condition of aluminium products as they come directly from the manufacturing or milling process, without undergoing additional surface treatments. It is essentially the raw, untreated state of aluminium after it has been extruded, rolled, or otherwise processed. In this state, the aluminium typically exhibits a matte appearance with a slightly rough texture, resulting from the mechanical processes used in its production. Mill finish aluminium is popular for its natural, industrial look and is often used in applications where aesthetics are less critical, or where subsequent finishing processes are planned.
Advantages:
Cost-effective, maintains a natural appearance.
Disadvantages:
Limited corrosion resistance, less aesthetic appeal
Anodising
Aluminum anodizing is a surface treatment process that involves enhancing the natural oxide layer on aluminum by electrolytically creating a thicker, more durable layer of oxide. The aluminum is immersed in an electrolyte bath, serving as the anode, while an electric current is applied. This process induces controlled oxidation, resulting in the formation of a protective and corrosion-resistant layer called an anodic oxide coating. Anodizing can be tailored to achieve specific thicknesses and finishes, offering benefits such as improved resistance to wear, corrosion, and fading. The process can also be used for decorative purposes, as it allows for the introduction of various colors and textures to the aluminum surface. Overall, aluminum anodizing enhances both the aesthetic and functional properties of the metal.
Advantages:
Improved corrosion resistance, increased durability, decorative, retains metallic appearance.
Disadvantages:
Limited colour options, potential for colour fading over time.
Powder Coating
Aluminium powder coating is a finishing process used to apply a durable and decorative coating to aluminium surfaces. The process involves applying a fine powder made of pigments and resin onto the aluminium substrate. The aluminium item is electrically grounded, and the powder is sprayed onto the surface. The coated item is then cured in an oven, where the powder melts and forms a smooth, even, and resilient finish. This method provides a protective layer that enhances the aluminum's resistance to corrosion, UV rays, and general wear and tear. Powder coating is favored for its versatility, allowing for a wide range of colors and finishes, and it is commonly used in applications ranging from architectural elements to automotive parts due to its durability and aesthetic appeal.
Advantages:
Wide range of colour options, gloss or matt finish, durable, corrosion resistant.
Disadvantages:
Initial set up costs can be higher, not always suitable for small intricate designs.
PVDF Coating
PVDF coating, or polyvinylidene fluoride coating, is a high-performance finish applied to aluminum and other materials to enhance their durability and resistance to environmental elements. PVDF coatings are known for their exceptional weather resistance, UV stability, and chemical resistance. The coating is typically applied through a liquid spray or coil coating process, and once cured, it forms a tough and long-lasting protective layer on the surface. PVDF coatings are widely used in architectural applications and is the most popular finishing coat applied to aluminium composite panels used as sign blanks. The coating's ability to maintain color stability, resist fading, and withstand harsh weather conditions makes it a popular choice for surfaces exposed to the elements.
Advantages:
Exceptional weather resistance, UV stability, chemical resistance, maintains colour in exterior applications.
Disadvantages:
High initial cost and coating cost, mostly used in sheet coating processes such as ACM or cladding.
Wet Spray Paint
Aluminium wet spray coating is a finishing process where a liquid coating, typically a paint or a protective layer, is sprayed onto aluminium surfaces. Unlike powder coating, which involves applying a dry powder that is later melted and cured, wet spray coating uses liquid formulations that adhere to the aluminium upon application. The aluminium substrate is prepared, and the coating is sprayed evenly onto the surface. The coated aluminium is then allowed to dry and cure, forming a protective and decorative finish. Wet spray coating offers versatility in terms of colour options and finishes, making it suitable for a range of applications, from industrial components to architectural elements. The process is adaptable to different coating materials and can provide a smooth and uniform appearance on the aluminium surface.
Advantages:
Vast colour options, can be used to coat wide range of materials, low initial cost, available for short run projects.
Disadvantages:
Not as durable as other coatings, thinner protective coat, can fade quicker than other methods.
Wood Grain Aluminium & Special Texture Coatings
Cutting-edge coating technology allows for the application of special effects, such as wood grain, marble, or stone, onto aluminum profiles, expanding design possibilities for signage and architectural components. The process involves applying a corrosion-resistant base coat followed by the use of a strong vacuum system to apply a printed design. Next the profile undergoes baking in an industrial oven, resulting in a finish that convincingly mimics natural materials like wood. The outcome not only achieves the aesthetic appeal of authentic materials but also ensures the durability and uniformity characteristic of aluminium profiles, offering a versatile and long-lasting solution.
Advantages:
Can produce high quality aesthetic effects, removes the need to use vinyl overlay to create texture, good durability and UV resistance.
Disadvantages:
Time intensive process, increased initial and coating costs. Limitations of available effects.
Our sign industry aluminium profiles
Aluminium Sign Posts
Aluminium sign posts are one of our biggest ranges. We provide a nationwide delivery service of aluminium tubes up to 6000mm in length. With diameters including 50mm, 76mm, 89mm, 102mm, 114mm and more.
We offer a range of finishes for these profiles to suit all budgets and requirements. With powder coated sign poles being the most popular, we are also provide anodised, mill finish and wood grain effect.
Aluminium Sign Channel
Sign channel is one of the most common extrusions in the UK sign industry. With a number of different names in the trade, it can be called: sign stiffener, sign rail, sign fix.
Whatever you choose to call it, Sign Trade Supplies is ready to supply it. With mill finish and powder coat finishes to choose from, you can match your sign channel with your channel blank.
Bespoke Aluminium Profiles
We are also able to provide a bespoke extrusion service. Our inhouse design team will help bring your idea to life and work with you from sketch to extrusion.
With an extensive history in the aluminium market we have a wealth of experience we are happy to pass onto clients looking to develop their own aluminium extrusions and systems.
Our Low Carbon Aluminium Offering
Sign Trade Supplies Ltd has truly committed to extruding sustainable aluminium profiles. All of our standard aluminium posts, channel and profiles use a low carbon aluminium billet with a CO2 footprint of 5.1kg per 1kg of aluminium. In comparison to the world average this is a 68% saving in CO2 emissions.
Our low carbon aluminium is provided at no extra cost and has saved thousands of tonnes of CO2 entering the atmosphere to date. However, we don't stop there, we also have the ability to take it one step further with the ultra-low carbon billet. The ULC billet achieves a staggering 81% saving on the world average and can be incorporated into bespoke profiles and projects with even greater emphasis on sustainable credentials.
Are you ready to start your aluminium journey?
Join us in your journey towards enhanced aluminium sustainability! Reach out to one of our dedicated team members today, and we'll gladly explore the array of options at your disposal. Let's collaborate to ensure your aluminum profile procurement aligns with lower climate and environmental impact, fostering a greener and more responsible approach
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