Galvanising and anodising are two ways to protect metal from damage. They both make metal last longer but they work in different ways. Knowing how each one works can help you choose the best method for your project.
What Anodising Does
Anodising, such as the examples seen at https://www.poeton.co.uk/surface-treatments/anodising/, works by making the natural oxide layer on a metal thicker and stronger, and aluminium is the metal most often treated this way. First, the metal is cleaned. It is then placed in a liquid that contains sulphuric acid. The surface reacts with oxygen in the liquid and forms a harder oxide layer. This layer cannot peel off and helps stop scratches and everyday wear. It can also be coloured before sealing if a certain look is needed. The process is widely used because it is clean and safe but there are health and safety rules that need to be abided by.
What Galvanising Does
Galvanising protects metal by coating it with zinc and it is most commonly used with steel and iron. The usual method is hot dip galvanising. The metal is cleaned and then dipped into molten zinc and when it comes out, the zinc stops air and water from reaching the steel. This slows down rust and the zinc can also protect against small scratches because it reacts first before the steel does. This makes the metal last much longer and keeps it strong in outdoor conditions.
Knowing the difference between galvanising and anodising can help you make the right choice when treating metal products.