Summary for clear anodizing of welded joints Discussion
Clear anodizing of welded joints is unlikely to produce a truly seamless look, according to the thread. Dan Moalli asked whether mitered, welded aluminum U-channel frames could be clear anodized so the ground and polished welds would disappear visually. One responder, Madhav, advised approaching the right extrusion supplier, an aluminum welding expert, an anodizer, and the designer together so the material, welding, and finish are coordinated from the start. However, Robert H Probert gave the blunt practical answer: the welds will show a slightly different shade after anodizing, and there is nothing you can do about it. The discussion therefore suggests that while careful fabrication and finishing may improve the result, clear anodizing does not eliminate the inherent color difference at welded areas, so a perfectly seamless appearance should not be expected.
Q. I work for a museum exhibit fabrication firm. We have recently received a request from a designer to produce frames constructed of U-Channel Aluminum, with mitered corners, and welded joints. (No real specifications given for alloy of extrusion, etc.) They have requested a clear anodized finish, and want the face of the frame (where the ground, polished welds are) to appear “seamless”. We’re aware of the need to use the 5356 welding rods…but are not sure if this “seamless” look is achievable with a clear anodized finish (as opposed to powder coating or painting them). We want to give the designer the look they want… Any thoughts?
Dan Moalli
Fabricator – Lorton, Virginia
2004
First of two simultaneous responses — 2004
A. You should solve your problem by approaching the right companies, who deal with
[1] Extrusion of Aluminum,[2] who are Expert in Aluminum Welding, and
[3] Expert Anodizer for better finish.
[4] of course designer too, what your client needs from you. [1] There are many Extrusion Companies, who can guide you for right kind material, still you can visit https://www.secat.net/SS-extrusion-tech.php
[2]https://www.lincolnelectric.com this site, where you will find the solution for Aluminum Welding
[3]finishing.com are the masters to solve your anodizing problem still you can visit many sites like https://www.anodizing.org also you visit your local anodizer shop.
[4] you must have design in mind, what your client needs, put the basic idea with any expert designer for guideline.
Madhav
– Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
Second of two simultaneous responses —
A. The welds will have a slightly different shade and there is nothing you can do about it.
Robert H Probert
Robert H Probert Technical Services
Garner, North Carolina
2004
A. I would machine the joints and try to join them mechanically. There are innovative alum joint fasteners from two major companies in Italy. I have machined 1″ x 4″ thick alum joints , mechanically fastened and anodized to be invisible.
Norm Stavin
– Amagansett, New York
2004