Anodising Standard -  Summary

Window Association of New Zealand Anodising Standard SFA 3503-03:2005

After some years without an Anodising Specification specifically for New Zealand conditions and applications, the Anodisers within the Window Association of New Zealand Surface Finishers have prepared for publication the Specification:

This specification is based on the New Zealand Standard (NZS3503) which was withdrawn and not replaced by Standards New Zealand.

 

Key outcomes of the Specification

The Window Association of New Zealand Specification covers the Specifier, Production and End-user aspects required to produce and maintain a quality anodised finish.

 
Selection of Aluminium:
Grades of aluminium extrusion and sheet suitable for architectural applications are defined.

Significant Surfaces:
The customer needs to define critical surfaces by means of drawings or samples, so that jigging can be optimised to minimise jig marks.

Surface Texture:
The effect of the original surface on the final anodised surface is outlined.

Colour: 
The potential for colour variation is outlined.

Visual Inspection after Anodising:
This is defined to take place at not less than two metres. Notes are also given concerning viewing angles and presence of metallurgical features in the metal itself that can affect appearance.

Thickness of Anodic Coating:
Anodic film thickness is defined and related to the corrosion zones in NZS3604 (Timber Framed Buildings). This gives a map of New Zealand and the required film thickness for specific areas and micro climates.

Temporary Protection of Anodised Aluminium:
Recommendations are given in Appendix F of the Specification.

Maintenance of Anodised Aluminium:
Recommendations are given in Appendix E of the Specification.


Anodising Zones:
There are 5 zones (sea spray plus four others).

Sea spray that requires at least 25 microns;

Zone 1 that is Coastal, but not Sea spray.  This requires at least 20 microns.

Zone 2 that is Inland Coastal and Zone 3 that is Inland with Plentiful Rainfall, both require at least 12 microns.

Zone 4 is the Geothermal Zone, here 25 microns is required.

Click here to go to the Corrosion Zones map.

Summary
Overall, the Window Association of New Zealand Specification has been produced to give specifiers, manufacturers and fabricators clear guidelines.

This enables anodised joinery to be selected, produced and installed in the best possible way.