aluminum "tarnish"?
#1
06-03-20, 04:12 PM
aluminum "tarnish"?
Didn't know where to put thsi so I thought I'd throw out here.
When handling aluminum, such as bar stock or unpainted aluminum window frames, your hands get a dark, almost black film like coating on them. What is this called? It pretty much washes off. Might take two washings with soap.
When handling aluminum, such as bar stock or unpainted aluminum window frames, your hands get a dark, almost black film like coating on them. What is this called? It pretty much washes off. Might take two washings with soap.
#2
06-03-20, 05:02 PM
Group Moderator
Its oxidation. Just like copper tarnishes and steel rusts. Cameo aluminum and stainless cleaner is a good cleanser to use on aluminum pots and pans. White vinegar is also said to work well.
Norm201
voted this post useful.
#3
06-03-20, 05:26 PM
Member
Yea, but a bit more!
Rust, which only occurs with metals with iron, slowly disolves the base material, aluminum corrodes creating a layer of oxide that acts as a protective barrier.
That is why iron needs a protective coating (paint/plating) to survive where as aluminum is more of a cosmetic treatment!
Rust, which only occurs with metals with iron, slowly disolves the base material, aluminum corrodes creating a layer of oxide that acts as a protective barrier.
That is why iron needs a protective coating (paint/plating) to survive where as aluminum is more of a cosmetic treatment!
#4
06-03-20, 06:24 PM
What's odd about is the way it transfer to your hands almost immediately. Today I was handling a lot of it and when I looked at my hands they were black. Yet the aluminum looks as shiny as ever.
#6
06-04-20, 03:29 AM
Member
Yet the aluminum looks as shiny as ever.
#7
06-04-20, 05:38 AM
Group Moderator
The aluminum's oxide layer is quite soft which is why it easily rubs off onto anything. Anodizing performs a similar job but is much harder so you don't get the black dirty marks when working with anodized aluminum.
