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How to Tell the Difference Between Polished & Coated Aluminum

The lightweight metal aluminum is used in many manufactured residential and commercial products. As aluminum is a soft metal, manufacturers often create alloys of aluminum or coat aluminum to protect it. As improper use of any polished product can result in damage to it and some aluminum products such as cookware are safer when coated, it is extremely important to learn the differences between polished and coated aluminum. Typically, you can tell the differences quickly in four ways.

Instructions

    • 1

      Check the reflectivity of the product. If the surface has a high shine, you may have a polished aluminum piece. If the surface doesn’t shine, or looks like it has dye, paint, Teflon or another finish on it, then you’re likely dealing with coated aluminum.

    • 2

      Consider the intended use for the product. For example, polished aluminum pieces instead of coated aluminum pieces often appear in areas where the surface can reflect away radiant energy such as light, infrared radiation and radio wave shielding products and lamp reflectors.

    • 3

      Check the piece’s surface durability. Rub an inconspicuous area with a paperclip, coin or dull knife. If the surface doesn’t scratch, or it scratches off revealing a different surface beneath, you’re dealing with coated aluminum. For example, you may have a scratch-resistant anodized aluminum product, or a product finished with aluminum foil.

    • 4

      Determine the magnetic properties of the product. Place a magnet against the surface of any polished piece. If the magnet sticks to the surface, the product has a coating containing a magnetic metal such as iron. Aluminum is not magnetic.

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