Aluminum Oxidation

Question:

I came across a clinic while searching PF Online. Can you suggest something I could add to a water bath to help prevent oxidation of the aluminum castings we produce? G.B.

Answer:

Unfortunately, you have not provided me with much information to go on. It would be necessary to understand the material, the process and your requirements before recommending anything. Any aluminum alloy will oxidize when exposed to air, and short of coating it (paint, plating, etc.), there is nothing that can be done to eliminate it, since that is its thermodynamically favorable place to be.