What is a feather edge made from?
What is a feather edge made from? |
||||
|
|
||||
 |
Feather edges are usually made from aluminium. | |||
 |
This is a soft, lightweight metal. It is dull silver in colour as a result of oxidisation (the way it reacts with the oxygen in the atmosphere).
As it is already oxidised, aluminium is not vulnerable to further reactions, such as rusting. |
|||
 |
Aluminium is both lightweight and durable, making it ideal for tools. | |||
 |
This element is abundant in the earth but difficult to extract. It is, however easily recycled, which makes recycling an important source of the element. It is also much cheaper to recycle than extract. | |||
Anodising |
||||
 |
The aluminium used for feather edges is often anodised. This is a process which increases the tool’s resistance to corrosion and wear. | |||
 |
Anodising thickens the oxide layer of the aluminium by passing an electrical current through a solution in which the aluminium is placed. | |||
