Vertical Laptop Case - Black

History

Anodizing is a surface treatment process used to enhance the properties of metals, primarily aluminum. It involves creating a durable and corrosion-resistant oxide layer on the surface of the metal through electrolysis. This oxide layer forms a protective barrier, improving the metal's resistance to wear, corrosion, and weathering.

The anodizing process begins by immersing the metal, typically aluminum, in an electrolyte bath. The metal acts as the anode (positive electrode) while a cathode (negative electrode) is also placed in the bath. When an electric current is applied, it initiates a chemical reaction.

During the process, oxygen ions from the electrolyte combine with the metal's surface, creating an oxide layer. This layer is porous, allowing for subsequent treatments like coloring or dyeing. The thickness of the oxide layer can be controlled by adjusting the duration and voltage of the electrical current.

The most commonly used electrolyte for anodizing is sulfuric acid. It produces a thick and stable oxide layer. Other electrolytes, such as organic acids or chromic acid, can also be used to achieve different surface finishes or properties.

After anodizing, the metal can be dyed to impart various colors. This is achieved by immersing the anodized part in a dye solution, which is absorbed into the porous oxide layer. The part is then sealed, either by hot water sealing or through the use of chemical sealants. Sealing helps to close the pores in the oxide layer, further enhancing its corrosion resistance and improving the durability of the anodized surface.

Anodizing offers several advantages. It provides excellent corrosion resistance, making it suitable for outdoor and marine applications. The anodized surface is also harder than the base metal, enhancing its wear resistance. Furthermore, anodizing allows for the retention of the metal's natural appearance while providing the option for a wide range of colors and finishes.

The applications of anodizing are diverse. It is commonly used in architectural projects, where anodized aluminum provides an aesthetically pleasing and durable finish for building facades, window frames, and other structural components. Anodized aluminum is also utilized in the automotive industry for exterior trims, wheels, and engine parts due to its corrosion resistance and decorative possibilities. Additionally, anodizing finds applications in consumer electronics, aerospace components, and many other industries.

Leather 101

Types of Leather

All Xcentric Fab Co American and Utility leather goods are made out of the finest, most environmentally friendly American full grain leather available - Wicket & Craig veg tanned leather - and all are made of Full Grain Leather.

Leather comes in a variety of “types”, and the quality is determined by what type of leather it is. Genuine is real leather, but it is the lowest quality, Top grain is most common, and is second highest quality, and Full grain is by far the high quality.

Genuine Leather

Genuine leather is the real leather, but it’s actually not as high in quality as the name might lead you to believe. In fact, when it comes to real leather, genuine leather offers the lowest quality you can get. That’s because genuine leather—sometimes referred to as bonded leather—is made out of bits and pieces of leftover leather scraps. While genuine leather doesn’t typically hold up well over time, it is very affordable. You could very well own a cheap belt or bag, for example, made with genuine leather.

Top Grain Leather

A step up from genuine leather and you’ve got top grain leather. When you hear top grain leather you might think top quality or top shelf, but the name actually refers to the top layer of the leather, which is what’s altered in this type of leather. The surface is of top grain leather is finished, often to hide flaws and imperfections, making the leather thinner and somewhat less durable than it would be otherwise.

Full Grain Leather

Last but by no means least, we have full grain leather. This is the best quality leather you can get. With full grain leather, the original grain has not been changed or altered in any way, leaving the natural texture of the hide’s surface untouched. This high-quality product yields durability and beauty not achieved in products made of lower grade leathers. An investment in a piece made with full-grain leather is one you can count on for years to come.