![]() This gives the oxide coat enough time to regenerate in case of abrasion or any other mechanical damage. Typically, you should not use aluminium in areas with low or very high pH. It does not rust but, corrosion is imminent if the metal is not used in the right context. To avoid corrosion, untreated aluminium should be used in areas with a pH of between 4.5 and 8.5.Įven though aluminium has an impressive set of features, like every other metal it works best in a carefully selected environment that helps it function at its best. In this case, the coat is broken down faster than it can repair itself. High levels of pH can break down the aluminium oxide coating. Because of its highly reactive nature, aluminium always ends up becoming the weaker metal, hence the corrosion.Īluminium corrosion can also occur because of extreme pH levels. When exposed to oxygen, it forms aluminum oxide, just like steel forms iron oxide, but the difference lies in the chemical makeup of these two oxides. It just rusts in a different way than steel and iron rust. In this arrangement, one metal becomes stronger while the other becomes weaker. The short answer is, yes, aluminum does rust. Galvanisation happens when different types of metal are positioned in a way that forms an electrical circuit. It happens when aluminium comes in contact with other metals. The most common type of corrosion in aluminum is galvanic corrosion. But some factors can cause the coat to become unstable, thus exposing the metal. The aluminium oxide coating is highly resistant and renews itself if damaged keeping the metal relatively safe from corrosion. While aluminium doesn’t rust, it does corrode. It keeps the metal free from corrosion unless the layer of aluminium oxide is removed. The coat of aluminium oxide formed hardens on to the surface and unlike rust, it doesn't flake. The coat is characterised by a powdery white or dull grey finish. Some Answers/comments come quite close to the real reason, but stop at commonplace like 'must be caused by the oxide layer (of aluminium)' The core reason why is simple: iron is the only metal where the oxide has a melting point lower than the melting point of the metal. However, just because aluminum doesn’t rust doesn’t mean that it’s completely immune to corrosion. When exposed to air, water or soil, aluminium reacts with oxygen to form a thin coat of aluminium oxide that chemically bonds to the surface of the metal. Unlike iron and steel, aluminum is not prone to rusting, which makes it an ideal choice for outdoor applications where weather conditions can cause other metals to deteriorate. Technically, pure aluminium dissolves when exposed to water but, it's reactive nature could also be its greatest asset. But, it's essential also to note that aluminium in its pure form, is a highly reactive metal. Can Aluminium Rust?Īluminium doesn't rust. The concern is valid, considering that rust can destroy the finish and over time weaken the structure of the metal. But, even with these benefits, users who are considering using aluminium metal for various applications have to wonder if it's prone to rusting like some of the other equally popular metals like steel and iron. Aluminium is known for its numerous benefits Including it's lightweight yet strong and easy to machine.
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