could an aluminum frame ever rust?

Answer 1

Aluminum does oxidize. In fact, it's normally extremely reactive. Except when aluminum oxidizes, the aluminum oxide forms a very hard protective layer, preserving the rest of the metal from oxidation. This is why aluminum is so durable . . . because oxidized aluminum is among the hardest and corrosion-resistant substances known.

So no, an aluminum frame won't rust like a steel frame might. However, there is an exception. Mercury prevents the protective coat of aluminum oxide from forming, permitting it to corrode destructively. This is why mercury is almost entirely prohibited from being carried on aircraft.

Answer 2

Oxidation is the aluminum form of rust. Unlike steel however, oxidation is good for aluminum as it makes it stronger. Aircraft aluminum is oxidized for this reason. The only negative to aluminum oxidation is the color or rather clarity. You can polished aluminum to a mirror like finish, but when it oxidizes, it'll look like a fogged over mirror.

Answer 3

Aluminum won't 'rust' but it can oxidize if exposed to harsh acids or other harsh chemicals. With normal care an aluminum frame (like on a gun) will probably wear out before it oxidizes. A high quality aluminum frame will last a long time before wearing out from shooting.

H


H

Answer 4

What MR said. You aren't like an ox or anything.....a good frame will hold you just fine for a long time....slightly less if you're doing jumps or really rough stuff. What kind of riding do you do? What sorts of frames have broken on you? Might be able to steer you better with that information. As far as titanium goes, yeah, it breaks too. Not nearly as often, but as MR said, frames are a function of their design, not just the materials. The only time I'd consider shelling out for a ti frame would be on a sleek road racing or touring bike and I'd consider carbon before ti. EDIT: I'd totally agree with the recommendation for Surly frames, if you're looking for a mtb frame. They're doing good things with steel. Many, many other frames, materials, and companies out there that should suit you, though.

Answer 5

Oxidation causes corrosion which attacks the outer layers first. Depending on the alloy (pure aluminum is not suitable for high stress uses), corrosion resistance is 'built in' most machined, forged aluminum alloys, tempered, and coated or anodized. It doesn't rust like steel, but it still can degrade with exposure as any metal will except 'noble' metals like gold.

Answer 6

Aluminum can oxidize, but in all practicality your biggest downfall with aluminum is wear at all the hardpoints (called "peening"). Aluminum tends to loose its integrity for all of its handy lightweight benefits. I have never seen oxidation on an anodized aluminum gun part.

Answer 7

It can oxidize but it is fairly resistant.
The biggest advantage to aluminum is the reduction in weight.I corrosion is your biggest concern then stainless is the answer. If you think the weight might be a factor then aluminum is a descent alternative in terms or corrosion resistance.

Answer 8

I always thought that aluminum would not rust.

Answer 9

when aluminum rusts , it gets a white powdery looking coating on it.

it doesnt rust away like steel .

Answer 10

As long as you don't leave it exposed to the elements for a long period, or expose it to chemicals, Alumuinium won't oxidize at any appreciable rate. As with the Stainless question, it can tarnish from sweat not cleaned from it, but, again this is a cosmetic problem that as with the stainless, can be easily polished away.