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Aluminum Hydrophilic (increase wettability)

 

Hi,

We would like to treat Heat Exchangers with Aluminum fins (we use both types or tubing, copper and aluminum but the fins are always aluminum) so that the aluminum fin surface becomes hydrophilic and water slides down easily. We produce high volumes so the process has to be easy to use in a high volume environment. Could anyone recommend a treatment to increase reduce surface tension of water on the Aluminum fin surface so as to make the surface hydrophilic?

In the process of stamping the fins we use a lubricant. I understand that there are some additives which could be added to the lubricant so that the aluminum foil which passes through it becomes hydrophilic? Any ideas on how to do this without damaging our fin dies?

Also, does anyone know anything about alumite or boehmite treatments? I understand they do the same thing

Darshan V. Bhatia
Frizair Corporation - Hyderabad, AP, India