The industrial mill finish represents the most basic and natural form of aluminum after the extrusion process. This finish is achieved through a simple process that involves degreasing to remove any oily residues, followed by an oxidation treatment that provides minimal surface protection.
Key characteristics:
Natural appearance: The surface of industrial mill finish aluminum remains virtually unchanged from its post-extrusion condition. This gives the material an authentic and natural appearance, with a texture that may display slight imperfections or marks from the extrusion process.
Basic protection: While the oxidation treatment offers minimal protection against oxidation and corrosion, industrial mill finish aluminum does not undergo additional aesthetic or finishing treatments.
Typical applications: This finish is ideal for applications where aesthetics are not a priority or where maintaining the natural appearance of aluminum is desired. It is common in manufacturing and sectors where components do not require a particularly refined appearance.
The chemical satin finish, on the other hand, represents an aesthetic and functional evolution of the industrial mill finish. This treatment is performed by immersing the aluminum in a solution based on caustic soda, which chemically reacts with the metal's surface. The result is a matte and uniform finish, offering an elegant and refined appearance.
Key characteristics:
Matte and uniform surface: The chemical treatment removes surface imperfections and gives the aluminum a homogeneous texture. The result is a matte finish that reduces reflections and provides the material with a more sophisticated aesthetic.
High uniformity: The chemical reaction ensures a uniform finish across the entire profile surface, eliminating extrusion marks or other irregularities. This makes the chemical satin finish particularly suitable for applications where aesthetic appeal is crucial.
Typical applications: Chemical satin finish aluminum is widely used in sectors such as furniture, lighting, and architecture, where a high-level aesthetic finish is required. The uniform and matte surface is ideal for modern and refined designs, offering a premium look that fits various contexts.
The choice between industrial mill finish and chemical satin finish aluminum depends on the specific needs of the project and the expected aesthetic and functional outcomes.
Both finishes offer distinct advantages, and understanding their differences is essential to optimizing the use of aluminum in any industrial or design application.