Aluminum profiles can be treated with various paints, anodized, or subjected to mechanical processing if additional surface protection or an enhanced appearance is required.
There are the following types of coatings:
Sublimation
Sublimation is an industrial process of applying special paints to aluminum profiles, which, when heated, transfer onto the material and accurately reproduce the texture and various shades of wood, marble, granite, and other decorative effects. Thanks to this process, it is possible to obtain any aluminum coating with all the guarantees of durability, maintenance, and protection that lacquer coatings offer, but without all the drawbacks of wood or other natural materials. This coating is durable, non-toxic, and safe for pets.
Sublimation is one of the most reliable types of coatings available in Ukraine. It has excellent resistance to ultraviolet rays and other atmospheric factors, which is why it is widely used in the production of windows and doors, as well as for interior and exterior finishing.
Thanks to constant innovations and the use of the best modern technologies, "Alupro" is capable of reproducing any type of wood: a wide range of finishes allows customers to choose between different shades and textures that best meet their needs.
The process of sublimation is quite simple and consists of the following stages:
- Powder coating. At this stage, the profile is being coated with a powder in the required shade.
- Coating with decorative film. At this stage, the profiles are coated with a film printed with special inks featuring wood textures or any other desired pattern.
- Vacuum removal of air from under the film.
- Sublimation. Profiles are placed in an oven, where at a temperature of 190 to 220º C, sublimation occurs on the aluminum, causing the inks from the film to transition from a solid state to a gaseous state. In a few minutes, the drawing will be transferred to the profile.
- Removing the film. The film is removed from the profiles, and appropriate quality control is carried out.
Anodizing
Anodizing is an electrochemical process that enhances the corrosion resistance and wear resistance of aluminum, as well as allows for the coating of the metal surface in a variety of bright colors. It should be noted that the paints used for this process are predominantly resistant to sunlight. Any aluminum alloy can be anodized. Specific working characteristics, such as hardness and porosity, depend on the alloy used, the specific anodizing process and chemistry, as well as the duration of treatment.
The anodizing process is as follows. Ready aluminum profiles – after a series of cleaning, washing, and etching stages – are immersed in a bath with an acidic electrolyte, and an electric current is passed through the solution. The cathode is installed inside the tank for anodizing, while the aluminum parts act as the anode. Oxygen ions are released from the electrolyte and combine with aluminum atoms on the surface of the profile, thereby creating a layer of aluminum oxide that is fully integrated with the aluminum beneath it. Subsequently, dyes can be applied, and the final stage is the sealing phase to enhance durability and prevent corrosion. The resulting oxide layer will not chip or peel off; it is extremely hard and resistant to corrosion, providing exceptional durability and low maintenance costs. Thanks to these properties, anodized aluminum profiles are a popular finishing element in areas such as architecture and design, the manufacture of household appliances, furniture, boats and sports goods, as well as personal electronics.
Alupro offers a standard range of anodic coatings: silver, gold, and bronze.
Laminating
The laminating of aluminum profiles is carried out by adhering a decorative protective film to them, which significantly strengthens their surface, extends durability, and provides the desired color and texture, mimicking the appearance and feel of almost any natural material (wood, stone, ceramics). The laminated aluminum profile is popular for high-quality interior and exterior finishing, as it can last more than 20 years even outdoors.
We offer many laminating options for you to choose from.
Coloring
Coloring is one of the most common finishing coatings for aluminum profiles. For this, liquid paint and powder coating are used.
Advantages of using liquid paint
First of all, there is a wide selection of types and colors of paints. Secondly, this method of application is economically advantageous for producing small batches of goods.
The disadvantages of liquid paint include that it contains harmful volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and that more waste is generated during its use compared to working with powder coatings. In addition, the color shade may vary from party to party.
Powder coating is the process of spraying electrostatically charged paint (in powder form) onto an aluminum profile.
Unlike liquid paint, powder coating does not require a solvent. Therefore, the surface of the profiles must be properly pre-treated: dust, grease, and any other foreign particles must be thoroughly removed. The powder is sprayed onto the profile using an electrostatic gun, after which the treated profiles are placed in a hot oven, where they remain until the coating evenly melts onto the surface and cures. After cooling, a smooth, hard coating will result.
The main advantages of powder coating aluminum profiles:
- A wide selection of beautiful, vibrant colors (especially in combination with anodizing).
- The coating is applied in a thick layer and bonds with the aluminum, making it not easy to chip or peel off.
- More environmentally friendly than liquid paint.
What makes powder coating environmentally friendly?
One of the main reasons why powder coating may be better than paint is the absence of solvents or VOCs. This means that spraying does not harm the environment.
Mill finish
The choice of coating for aluminum profiles depends on several factors, including the desired appearance and the conditions of use for the product. Aluminum has a natural protection against many environmental influences, as a protective oxide layer begins to form naturally when untreated aluminum comes into contact with the atmosphere. For many applications, aluminum profiles do not require more protection than this transparent oxide film.
Mill finish products are often used for further individual decorative finishing or interior solutions in the Loft style.
