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Stay Bright - Polished Aluminium

2001

Polished Aluminium

Is there a downside to using polished aluminium as opposed to e.g. a chromium finish. i.e. Does it discolour?

a) with weathering?

b) over time?

c) if heated?

....and, if so, is there a treatment or dip to keep it bright?

Looking forward to answers to my question!

Patrick Weldon
- Hong Kong

2007

Bright aluminum is produced by "brite dipping", Patrick -- a chemical process which includes nitric and phosphoric acid to chemically brighten the aluminum. It is thin anodized to prevent corrosion.

Both bright anodized aluminum and chrome plating can be durable and attractive finishes. It's mostly a matter of taste, but I think chrome plating will stay fully bright for a longer time in most environments. Good luck.

Ted Mooney, P.E.
Striving to live Aloha
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey

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