Anodized
Eloxal is short for electrolytic oxidation of aluminium. Anodizing, also known as anodic oxidation, is an electrochemical process in which the surface of aluminium is converted to aluminium oxide. The dense and very hard anodized coating that is produced in the process is firmly joined to the substrate and is highly resistant to mechanical, chemical and thermal loads.
Because of the porous nature of the oxide coating, printing methods or dye baths can be used to embed inorganic or organic colourants directly in the transparent anodized coating to protect against environmental conditions. This method is also known as anodic subsurface printing.
Properties and benefits
- The colour does not sit on the aluminium sign, on the aluminium front or on the aluminium label, but it is protected, embedded and sealed in the anodized coating
- Decorative, metallic character
- Glass-hard, corrosion resistant, scratch-proof and smooth surface
- Easy to clean
- Resistant to oils, greases, fuels and solvents
- Can be combined with the etching method
Uses
Type plates, rating plates • Brand mark signs, emblems • Scales, gauges, dials • Blanks, die cut parts, functional parts • Barcode signs • Dog license fee tags • Front plates, front panels • Front films, keyboard films • Technical labels • Advertising labels • Inscribable labels
Material
Print colours
Large selection of standard colours available. Within certain colour tolerances, special colours can be supplied by you or mixed individually. The colour "white" is not possible for anodic subsurface printing, because white colour pigments are larger than the pores on the anodized surface. For that reason, the basic silver colour of the anodized aluminium is usually used for white.
Variable information
Sequential numbering, sequential barcodes and alternating inscriptions using embossing, engraving, laser inscription or digital printing
