Corrosion resistance of 6105-T5 anodized aluminum for wastewater?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the corrosion resistance of 6105-T5 anodized aluminum, specifically from 80/20's 25-2525 T-slot framing, for use in a waste container housing in Uganda. The user seeks materials that can withstand exposure to salts found in urine and wastewater, noting that while aluminum generally resists corrosion, it may falter in salt environments. Alternatives like copper, stainless steel, and galvanized steel are considered, with copper being the most resistant but cost-prohibitive. The user expresses concern about exposed cut ends of aluminum and the varying opinions on galvanized steel's longevity.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of aluminum alloys, specifically 6105-T5 and 6000 series
  • Knowledge of anodizing processes and their effects on corrosion resistance
  • Familiarity with materials used in wastewater management
  • Basic principles of corrosion, particularly in saltwater environments
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the corrosion resistance of 6105-T5 anodized aluminum in saline conditions
  • Investigate the properties and applications of stainless steel in wastewater environments
  • Explore the use of UHMW (Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene) for structural applications
  • Learn about the long-term performance of galvanized steel in corrosive environments
USEFUL FOR

Engineers, architects, and project managers involved in wastewater management and structural design, particularly in environments with high corrosion risks.

hjannett
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TL;DR
I'm wondering about corrosion resistance of 6105-T5 anodized aluminum for wastewater applications.
Hello,
I'm looking for structural materials that will act as the frame (skeleton) for the housing surrounding a waste container. The frame will structurally support HDPE panels as walls. This will be above ground for use in Uganda (but we can ship materials), under a raised squat toilet hole.

I'm looking for rails or rail materials for servicers to roll waste containers in and out of the housing, but also what frame materials will be corrosion resistant to the salts found in urine and wastewater. It likely will not come in direct contact with urine or wastewater, but in case of spills or evaporation, I'd like it to last a while. I was looking at 80/20's 25-2525 T-slot framing for ease of assembly and durability. It says its made of 6105-T5 anodized aluminum. I was unable to get info from customer service about corrosion resistance, so I was wondering if anyone has any input about using this product for this application (or any knowledge on this metal in contact with saltwater would also be great), or any other recommended materials or products. 6000 series alloys have "excellent corrosion resistance", but I'm not really sure what that means for my application. Thanks!
 
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Just based on experience, aluminum is good in resisting corrosion except when exposed to salt and soils. I have found copper to be number one in that salt environment if you can afford it and live with its green oxide. Galvanized steel is good for 15 years or so. Periodic cleaning is helpful also.
 
Thanks for the suggestions PhanthomJay! I've since found some info when I search for corrosion under salt water exposure specifically (which is a decent approximation). I think copper is beyond our budget, but I'm continuing to research other options (like stainless steel or UHMW). From the research I'm guessing that 80/20 would hold up since it's anodized, but we cut it to length, and the cut ends would leave exposed areas for corrosion. I looked into your suggestion for galvanized steel, and have seen contradicting opinions--maybe it ultimately depends on the ionic ratios in the water?
 

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