Summary for black anodized aluminum Discussion
Black anodized aluminum is the focus keyphrase here, and the question is whether a scratched black sailboat mast can be cleaned and polished during maintenance. Dawson L. Wurzel asks for a product or method specific to black anodized aluminum, noting that many commercial cleaners do not mention it. The excerpt provided does not include any substantive replies or a confirmed best method, so there is no consensus answer in the thread text shown. Based on the question alone, the practical concern is preserving the anodized finish while improving appearance, especially on a mast exposed to weather and handling. Because no answerer’s advice is included in the excerpt, no named recommendation can be attributed. The only visible thread fragment mentions “Lanolin-based Lubricant on Amazon or,” but it is incomplete and cannot be treated as a full recommendation.
Q. What is the best way to clean & polish black anodized aluminium? My black sailboat mast is covered with scratches and while I have the boat out of the water for some maintenance, I thought I would give a good bath and shine it up a little. There are several commercial products on the market but none say they are specific to black anodized aluminium. I would greatly appreciate your assistance in this matter.
Thanks,
Dawson L. Wurzel
– Atlanta, Georgia
May 31, 2016
A. With the way aluminium is anodised, it doesn’t matter what colour the dye is. Most coatings can not be successfully polished. Depending on how deep the scratches are, the layer may be broken through and leave areas prone to corrosion. A few of the marine racers and enthusiasts here regularly wipe the areas down with Lanox [lanolin based lubricant] or a residue leaving substance to assist in minimising corrosion and maintain looks. But the best way to ensure corrosion resistance and for it to be back to a showroom finish is to re-anodise the items.
Daniel Kingston
Metal coatings and finishing – Brisbane, Queensland Australia