Elementary Aluminum Finish Question

[SnTMan]

OK, this is related to a home project. I did a site search, but did not find anything I felt answered my question.

I have fabricated a plate from aluminum, don't know the alloy offhand. I have scotch-brited it giving a kind of matte finish, washed and dried. It now has the apperance I want. This plate will be installed in an indoor environment, it may be touched, but will not normally be handled.

Question is, will the naturally-formed oxide be sufficient to preserve the appearance, protect against stains from skin oils, etc, or will I need to, say, clear-coat it?

Thanks in advance

Mike

 

[CoryPad]

Clear coat will be necessary. Aluminum surfaces, as they oxidize and hydrate to become hydroxides, develop stains and non-uniform appearance.

 

[SnTMan]

CoryPad, thanks, always one more thing to do

Regards,

Mike