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Q&As since 1989


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Aluminum clear finish

We are a manufacturer of aluminum tank trailers for hauling dry bulk material for the feed industry. For some time the issue of aluminum finish has been on our table. Our customers have been asking if there is a finish that can be applied to the natural aluminum that will prevent it from corrosion. Not a corrosion that breaks the aluminum down per se, but one that will help retain its original luster.

We have tried various forms of urethane with no success. Paint will not bond to the natural state of aluminum with out some form of etching and a primer base designed to bond to the aluminum. Is there or does any one know of a product that goes by a trade name of "armour jacket"? Any help in this matter will be very much appreciated.

Terry Medemblik
- Caledonia, Michigan
2005

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I'm not sure if I'm allowed to recommend a specific product but some of the larger paint manufacturers do have a clear coat process designed for aluminum.

Jono Chae
- Los Angeles, California, USA
2005

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Have you considered anodizing the parts? If you go with a clear anodize sealed in DI water it is approved for food use and adds a lot of corrosion and wear resistance to the aluminum.

Jim Gorsich
Compton, California, USA
2005