In September, Fastener SuperStore rolled out a new product line of dome head, aluminum black anodized rivets. Anodizing is achieved through a process of bathing parts in acidic chemicals and then adding an electrical current to the bath.

The chemical reaction triggers the formation of hydrogen, then oxygen, on the surface of the aluminum, resulting in a strong oxide outer layer. This leads to several benefits:

1. Greater Durability. Anodized aluminum is harder and stronger than non-anodized. Because anodization is a transformative chemical process, rather than a coating, it is also resistant to flaking, chipping or peeling.

2. Improved Corrosion Resistance. While regular aluminum doesn't rust, it is susceptible to galvanic corrosion which can occur when it is placed in contact with dissimilar types of metals such as stainless steel. The oxide layer that results during the anodizing process serves as a protective shell, creating a barrier to this type of corrosion.

3. Ability to Accept Color Dyes. During the anodizing process, dyes can be added to the acid bath to achieve different colors. It's what allows them to absorb the black color found on these rivets. Because the dye is added as part of the conversion process, it is highly resistant to fading.

If these benefits are what you're looking for in a rivet, click here and select "Black Anodized" as your aluminum rivet finish.