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Akadize is a remarkable metal surface technology that
vastly expands the usefulness of aluminum and its alloys. Akadize creates
a permanent surface on the aluminum that is exceptionally hard, slippery
and dense. It adds anti-corrosion, thermal resistance, and dielectric
properties that are beyond the measure of conventionally-coated aluminum.
The improved performance characteristics of Akadized aluminum make it
the functional equal of more expensive and heavier metals. Indeed, in
hundreds of applications, Akadize has surpassed performance challenges
that were never before approached by aluminum. Akadize is an electrochemistry
technology developed for use by NASA and aerospace programs. It utilizes
unique circuitry and special additives to transform the molecular structure
of the aluminum base. The new surface is half penetration and half buildup
and becomes an integral, permanent part of the aluminum.
Akadized aluminum has been commended for its superb performance in the
most demanding conditions. It has proven itself in space and undersea,
in extremes of temperature and harsh environment.
Among the many current applications for Akadized aluminum are:
Aerospace components
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Chemical processing
equipment |
Camping equipment
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Computer components
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Automotive pistons
and parts |
High speed projectiles |
Motorcycles |
Solar energy components
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Sporting goods |
Wires |
Labeling machine components |
Fishing equipment |
Valves |
Pumps |
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Marine components |
Medical instruments |
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Akadized aluminum offers the engineer, the designer,
the manufacturer and the fabricator an exciting new range of efficiencies
and capabilities. It is , indeed, a breakthrough in aluminum technology.
Features
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Hardness:
Akadized
aluminum resists wear, scratching and galling, and has a hardness range
of 9.2 to 9.7 on the Moh's Scale (Note: the Moh's scale, comparing surface
hardness, rates diamond highest at 10. Sapphire is 9. Thus, Akadize at
9.7 rates in the diamond-hard range.)Aluminum alloys Akadized to a depth
of 0.002" have withstood abrasion in a Taber test using C-17 wheels at
70 rpm for 200,000 cycles.
Density:
Akadized aluminum has a very low friction coefficient. The surface is
of such high lubrication that it eliminates all discernible tension to
solid, liquid or gaseous mixtures.
Corrosion Resistance:
Akadized components have withstood more than 1700 hours of continuous
exposure to salt spray, suggesting a potential salt atmosphere life of
300 years. Akadized aluminum has an exceptional ability, also, to resist
attack by corrosive gasses and liquids.
Dielectric Properties:
An aluminum surface Akadized to 0.003" has resisted 2000 volts before
breakdown, while conventional hard anodic coatings normally breakdown
at 1000 volts or less.
Thermal Resistance:
Akadized aluminum is an amazing thermal barrier that has resisted heat
to 2000 degrees F for 15 minutes without metallurgical transition. The
Akadized surface becomes a heat shield for the aluminum which would otherwise,
have melted at 1220 degrees F.
Reactivity: Akadized aluminum is inert.
Flexibility: Akadized wire will normally
not fracture on the compression or tension sides.
Thickness: Can be controlled within
0.0002"
Military Specifications: Akadized
surface-treated aluminum has been used under the "Banadize" trade name
for aerospace and defense purposes. (NASA-approved MilSpec A8625C & LTC
12672)
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