Dr E. Ramanathan PhD
Aluminium comes in various grades and alloys, which differ in composition, surface properties, and reactivity. Selecting a suitable degreasing cleaner depends on the aluminium type and the process that follows (e.g., painting, anodizing, welding).
1. Pure Aluminium (1000 series – e.g., 1050, 1100)
- Properties: Soft, ductile, highly corrosion resistant.
- Cleaner Type: Mild alkaline or neutral degreaser.
- Reason: Highly reactive to strong alkalis; avoid caustic cleaners.
2. Work-Hardening Alloys (3000 series – e.g., 3003)
- Properties: Moderate strength, good corrosion resistance.
- Cleaner Type: Mild alkaline or weak acidic degreaser.
- Reason: Avoid high-pH cleaners that may cause surface darkening.
3. Heat-Treatable Alloys (2000 & 7000 series – e.g., 2024, 7075)
- Properties: High strength, prone to galvanic corrosion.
- Cleaner Type: Neutral or mildly acidic cleaner with corrosion inhibitors.
- Reason: Sensitive to both acidic and alkaline attack.
4. Structural Alloys (5000 series – e.g., 5052, 5083)
- Properties: High corrosion resistance, used in marine/architectural.
- Cleaner Type: Mild alkaline or neutral degreaser.
- Reason: More stable, but avoid aggressive alkalis.
5. Casting Alloys (e.g., A356, 319)
- Properties: High silicon content, porous surface.
- Cleaner Type: Neutral or weak alkaline cleaner.
- Reason: Highly reactive; avoid acids which penetrate porosity.
6. Anodized Aluminium
- Properties: Pre-treated surface with oxide layer.
- Cleaner Type: pH-neutral cleaner only.
- Reason: Acid or alkali may damage the oxide layer.
Selection Chart:
| Aluminium Type | Recommended Cleaner Type | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1000 series | Mild alkaline or neutral | Avoid caustic soda |
| 3000 series | Mild alkaline or weak acidic | Balanced cleaning with inhibitor |
| 2000 / 7000 series | Neutral or weak acidic + inhibitor | Prone to pitting |
| 5000 series | Mild alkaline or neutral | Good tolerance |
| Cast Aluminium | Neutral or weak alkaline | Avoid acids |
| Anodized Aluminium | Neutral only | Preserve anodic layer |
Formulation of Aluminium Cleaners
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