Ruskin continues to develop and optimize acid etch anodizing technology for louver production within its Juarez and Geneva plants.
Less Waste
Acid Etching is proven to be more environmentally friendly than the original caustic (alkaline) processes. This is accomplished by reducing the amount of metal loss by up to 90% during the finishing process and resulting in less ‘sludge’ waste as a by-product culminating in lower disposal rates. Acid etching also conserves water, using lower amounts during the steps of rinsing as the caustic process demands several rinses. Some of the processes’ by-products are also recyclable and can be reused as one of the components that is made into aluminum.
A Superior Finish
A more consistent matte finish is also achieved by irregularities and imperfections such as extrusion lines or surface scratches being smoothed out to a level caustic anodizing cannot replicate. According to the Aluminum Anodizers Council, the process gives a finer more uniform pit distribution that is independent of the microstructure. This ultimately results in a better aesthetic appearance which can be extremely important in architectural products such as louvers. Less surface imperfections also mean a better tolerance to corrosion than previously achieved. With a smoother surface, anodize application will also result in a higher quality finish. Solar glare from bright sunlight can also be reduced as gloss levels on the surface of the final product are decreased.
Better Production Times and Use of Resources
The complete acid etching procedure is more efficient over the traditional caustic etching resulting in an ultimate reduction of concentrated etching times by 80%. In taking less time to achieve the end result and needing lower tank temperatures, less plant energy is consumed making acid etch a more energy efficient process overall.
Acid Etching as a production process better meets the needs of Ruskin’s extrusion and preparation of its louvers for its customers, allowing it to provide a high quality aluminum product that requires low maintenance and inherently has a high resistance to corrosion.
Louver and Architectural Solutions
While providing fresh air intake and exhaust, Ruskin Louvers can also provide different architectural styles to building design. With the variety of models, sizes, paint finishes available, and custom products, Ruskin Louvers can add unusual and appealing features to exterior and interior elevation. Ruskin louvers are available in depths ranging from 1.5″ to 12″ and can accommodate various blade angles with high free area.
Link to Ruskin Louver and Architectural Solutions
For more information about Ruskin’s complete louver product line, application and design support, and our state-of-the-art manufacturing capabilities, contact your local Ruskin representative nearest you or Contact Ruskin directly at (816) 761-7476.
Tom Edwards 