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plating, anodizing, & finishing Q&As since 1989




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Architect needs to make aluminum look like blackened steel

2004

Q. Hello:

We're looking to clad a new structure in a relatively arid environment (Palm Springs, CA) in aluminum, most likely in a shingle arrangement, and I'm researching finishes. We're hoping to find a darkish grey finish, preferably matte, with some color variation, similar to blackened steel (but lighter). Right now it seems like anodizing is the obvious choice, although I'm wondering: is an additional step or process that will give the finish a rougher or more uneven look?

Thanks

Jake Nishimura
architect - New York, New York, USA

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2004

Alcoa, Kaiser, and Reynolds, and Kawneer, all have "doped" metal that comes right out of the anodizing tank black and color fast. Trades names are Duranodic, Permanodic, Kalcolor, and I forget the other one. Unlike dyed anodizing, these architectural coatings come right out of the tank gray or black and colorfast as no organic dye is involved. Special aluminum from one of those suppliers is alloyed with other metals that effect the color.

Robert H Probert
Robert H Probert Technical Services

Garner, North Carolina