Linetec Exclusively Offers Eco-friendly Copper Anodize
Wausau, Wis. - Linetec showcases its proprietary copper anodize finishing to architectural market-leaders at the American Institute of Architects (AIA) national design exposition. This exclusive, eco-friendly finish allows aluminum to present the look of real copper without such shortcomings as salt run-off stains, galvanic corrosion and patina.
Linetec's copper anodize has been specified on a range of architectural aluminum products including windows and curtainwall, column covers, canopies and panel systems. "Architects appreciate this unique finish for a wide range of projects: from eye-catching modern designs to historic restoration projects that will never patina," says Linetec's senior marketing specialist, Tammy Schroeder, LEED® Green Associate.
As one of the nation's largest paint and anodize finishers, Linetec launched this technology in 2005. Unlike other finishes, anodizing highlights aluminum's metallic appearance. Because it is an integral part of the substrate, the anodic coating results in a hard, durable substance providing excellent wear and abrasion resistance with minimal maintenance.
Linetec's copper anodize meets or exceeds all AAMA-611 Class I specifications and weathering tests. Class I anodic coating is a high-performance finish used for exterior building structures and other products that must withstand continuous outdoor exposure. Class I anodize is resistant to salt spray and the seacoast, and it is extremely durable in high traffic areas. For nearly 10 years, Linetec's copper anodized material has been on a test fence in south Florida with no significant change to color or gloss.
Copper anodize utilizes Linetec's eco-friendly anodize process, which creates an aesthetically appealing, "frostier" matte finish. This helps hide small defects, such as die lines, flow lines, minor corrosion and scratches that may occur on the aluminum surface of architectural products. As slight imperfections can be common with secondary billet, the finish is well suited for products manufactured with recycled aluminum. Materials with recycled content may assist building projects seeking certification through the U.S. Green Building Council's LEED Rating System(TM).
With respect to LEED criteria for indoor air quality, the anodize process contains no volatile organic compounds (no VOCs). Further supporting environmental and energy-efficient goals, Linetec's eco-friendly anodize process also reduces landfill waste by as much as 80% when compared with traditional etch processes. The process byproducts from the bath are recyclable.
In addition, the improved anodize process has the viscosity of water and will not collect in the small recesses of aluminum extrusions or narrow aluminum tubes, enhancing the durability and lifecycle of the finished product. When it is time for the installed architectural product to be removed, anodized aluminum is 100% recyclable, lending itself to post-consumer recycled content during demolition or restoration of the building.
Learn more about Linetec and its finishing services at www.linetec.com or by calling 888-717-1472.
Linetec is one of the nation's largest paint and anodize finishers, and the largest independent architectural finisher. Located in Wisconsin, the company serves customers across the country through a national trucking network and offers 500,000-square-feet of capacity for finishing such products as aluminum windows, wall systems, doors, hardware and other architectural metal components, as well as automotive, marine and manufactured consumer goods.
Linetec's media contact: Heather West, 612-724-8760, heather@heatherwestpr.com
