The American
Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA) has released an updated document
laying out the anodizing process with reference to architectural work.
According to AAMA, this standard describes the anodizing process, which
produces a coating that is thicker than nature's version, harder and very
durable. The AAMA Anodic Finishes/Painted Aluminum (AFPA) document has been
updated to reflect newer technologies now available for the process involved.
The appearance and physical properties of anodic finishes are discussed as
governed by three factors, which are aluminum alloy and temper, surface
treatment prior to anodizing and the type of electrolyte and operating
techniques used in the anodizing process.
“AAMA AFPA-1 was a
retired AAMA document,” says Andy Joswiak (Apogee Enterprises/Linetec), chair of the AMC Anodic
Finishes/Painted Aluminum Task Group. “When the AAMA document CW-10 [Care and
Handling of Architectural Aluminum from Shop to Site] was recently updated, it
was decided to be streamlined by removing information that was not relevant to
that specification. That information was important and was only available in
the CW-10 specification.”
Joswiak says it was
then decided to bring the AAMA AFPA reference document out of retirement and
update it to include the important information removed from AAMA CW-10.
“It took a lot of
hard work by many, but ultimately, AAMA has provided an excellent reference
document that gives users and specifiers expert information on paint and
anodized finishes for aluminum building components,” says Joswiak.
Carl Troiano (Trojan Powder Coatings), vice chair of the AMC Anodic
Finishes/Painted Aluminum Task Group, adds that the document also was updated
based upon current technology and processes. “There were certain finishes that
were outdated and not used in the current architectural specifications,” says
Troiano. “There were tests and procedures that needed to be verified or
modified along with clarifying and identifying the specifications. This
revision streamlined the current specification.”
More information
about AAMA and its activities can be found via the AAMA Media Relations
page or on the
AAMA website.