Powder-Coating vs Anodising
Powder-coating is an organic finish, paint, while anodising is an inorganic finish.
Words by Advance Flooring Systems30 June 20201 min read
So, what is the difference? Anodising is an inorganic finish that is a straightforward electrochemical process, which increases the thickness of the natural oxide layer on aluminium. Powder-coating conversely is a technique used to apply decorative finishes, in a process that electrostatically charges the powder, spraying it onto the aluminium and then it cures in an oven into a smooth coat.
Advantages of Anodising
- Easy maintenance with periodic cleaning with water and a mild detergent
- The anodic coating will not peel or flake because it is part of the metal
- Anodising gives of a translucent metallic appearance because the base metal can be seen underneath the coating
- Sunlight does not affect it and is predominantly fade resistant
- Consistent finishing, regardless of angle viewed from
- There are no VOC’s emitted
- Surface can be affected by acidic pollutants
- Potential for colour variation between batches
- Usually only available in a matt or polished finish
- Can only be applied to aluminium
- Dents and scuffs can be easily repaired using liquid coating that matches the original colours
- Powder-coated aluminium will look the same as other components powder-coated in the same colour/s
- Huge range of finishes available
- More colour uniformity between batches
- No air pollution from the finish
- Filiform corrosion resembling threadlike filaments may form under the finish if incorrect pre-treatment methods are used
- If the applied coating film is either too thick or thin, or if the powder coating material is too reactive, orange peel may occur
- Chalking which looks like white powder on the surface, may appear if the incorrect curing process is used
View our anodising and powder-coating options HERE.