Linetec’s New, Environmentally Friendly, Acid Etched Anodise Conceals Imperfections with a 'Frostier' Matte Finish

Linetec has announced a change in its anodise etch chemistry from traditional, caustic etch to a more environmentally-friendly, acid etch process. In addition to its green attributes, acid etch creates an aesthetically appealing, 'frostier' matte finish that helps hide small defects, such as die lines, flow lines, minor corrosion and scratches, that may occur on the aluminium surface of architectural products.

'We’ve been researching this newer etching technology for some time and are excited to be one of the first companies to bring this process to market,' says Linetec’s Andy Joswiak, vice president of operations. 'Although neither traditional nor acid etch removes irregularities in the aluminum, acid etch does a better job of concealing them. This gives the material a better aesthetic finish on both primary aluminum and secondary (recycled) billet.'

Unlike other finishes, anodising highlights aluminium’s metallic appearance. Because it is an integral part of the substrate, the anodic coating results in a hard, durable substance providing excellent wear and abrasion resistance with minimal maintenance. Joswiak adds, 'For the short term, Linetec will continue to offer both the caustic and acid etch process. Anodised aluminium also can be stripped back to raw aluminium through our traditional etch process and then can be painted, or re-anodised with acid etch.'

The process byproducts from the acid etch bath are recyclable. The acid etch anodise process also reduces waste and energy used with traditional etch processes. Furthermore, acid etch has the viscosity of water and will not collect in the small recesses of aluminum extrusions or narrow aluminum tubes, enhancing the durability and lifecycle of the finished product.

Supporting green building and sustainable design goals, Linetec also provides thermal barrier systems and no-VOC (volatile organic compound) architectural finishes such as Kynar 500®. These also can assist building projects seeking certification under the LEED® (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Green Building Rating System™.

Architects, building owners and other professionals engaged in green building practices can learn more about the role of finishes and thermal barrier systems by visiting Linetec’s online Architectural Reference Centre at http://www.linetec.com