Aluminum fasteners work well in solar energy applications Brendan Leipsic Golden Knights Jersey , with a lightweight design that also resists corrosion for long term, efficient performance. But galvanic corrosion may be a problem in these projects, and fastener manufacturers offer a few different solutions to combat the problem.


Aluminum Fastener Basics


Pure aluminum is weak, although highly resistant to corrosion. In order to add strength fasteners are made with an aluminum alloy, which is then coated or clad with pure aluminum to boost the level of corrosion resistance. This type of fastener is commonly termed “al clad.”


Iridite Finish


Beyond the typical al clad fastener Colin Miller Golden Knights Jersey , contractors and manufacturers in the solar energy industry may also choose to use iridited aluminum fasteners. This finish involves a phosphate or chromate conversion coating, applied via submersion in a specially prepared bath. An iridite finish provides higher levels of corrosion resistance, protecting the aluminum alloy while the coating remains unbroken. Scratched, nicked or broken iridite coating offers limited protection, and this can present a serious issue in many solar energy applications.


Anodized Finish


Smart companies choose to use anodized aluminum fasteners for solar energy applications Deryk Engelland Golden Knights Jersey , offering even more corrosion protection and strength in extreme circumstances. Anodized coating involves submerging the aluminum fasteners into a bath of sulphuric acid. The chemical reaction that occurs results in a hard coating that remains inert to a wide range of chemicals.


Aluminum automobile trim is often anodized, providing excellent levels of durability and strength over a large surface area.


Complications and Considerations


Most companies working in the solar energy industry opt for either iridited or anodized aluminum fasteners. But when the machining or assembly process is completed after these parts are coated–such as on site–that coating remains vulnerable.


Machining and assembly create raw or rough edges on coated aluminum fasteners, often severely reducing the longevity of the fastener. Both the automotive and aerospace industries face this problem, and fastener manufacturers have come up with solutions designed to maintain efficiency, costs and product durability.


Those raw or rough edges on the anodized or iridited aluminum fasteners must be treated post-assembly to maintain corrosion resistance. Several protective compounds are on the market Marc-Andre Fleury Golden Knights Jersey , including an alodine treatment that can be brushed onto the surface. Zinc chromate pastes offer another solution and are applied directly to the rough edges. Zinc chromate compounds are also available in a thinner consistency, much like paint.


The aerospace industry often uses a sealant, which may or may not be applicable to the solar energy industry, depending on the location and size of the project. Availability and cost will often dictate which post-assembly treatment is used, since most provide a similar level of protection in standard circumstances.


Aluminum fasteners remain the top choice for solar energy James Neal Golden Knights Jersey , although fastener design dictates overall performance. You may choose iridited aluminum fasteners or opt for the stronger coating on anodized aluminum fasteners. Talk to your fastener distributor about price and availability for both options. These coatings will protect the fasteners from electrochemical corrosion (rust) and from galvanic corrosion, substantially extending the life of your solar panels and mounting systems.


Mike Moore is published on more than 300 websites. He writes about industrial fasteners and building, commercial building, and home building projects . He is published on various website including http:www.melfast


BEIJING, Feb. 2 (Xinhua) -- Chinese stocks closed higher Friday led by coal and cement sectors