What are folding squares made of?

29th February 2020


	What are folding squares made of?


	Shop for Folding Squares


			Folding squares are tools that can experience a lot of use throughout their working life. The materials used need to allow the folding squares to be able to withstand a certain amount of use, without becoming easily damaged. The folding squares also need to be user efficient, for example, lightweight so they do not require a lot of effort to manoeuvre. The materials used to produce folding squares are, therefore, very important in how they function. Read on to find out more…

			Folding square frame
			Aluminium Aluminium is a silvery, white element that is relatively durable and lightweight.

			An aluminium folding square needs to be lightweight so it can be easily manoeuvred.

			Aluminium is relatively durable, meaning the folding square is strong and able to withstand wear.

			Most folding squares are described as having a ‘heavy duty’ aluminium frame. This is another way of describing the material used as being tough and able to withstand the stress of constant use. There doesn’t seem to be a difference between a ‘heavy duty’ aluminium frame and a regular aluminium frame.

			Anodised coating A number of folding square frames are anodised. Anodising is the process of electrically charging the aluminium to create a a protective oxide layer (coating) on the surface.

			What is anodising? Anodising is the process of passing an electrical current through a solution, with the aluminium as an anode. Negative ions are released from the negative cathode and positive ions from the aluminium, this producing a build up of aluminium oxide (layer) to create a coating on the frame. An anode is a positively charged electrode and a cathode is a negatively charged electrode. An electrode is an electrical conductor and ions are electrically charged particles.

			Anodising increases wear resistance so the aluminium folding square becomes tougher making it able to withstand constant use. The process also increases corrosion resistance, reducing the chances of the frame becoming damaged from chemical reactions such as rusting. This happens because the process of anodising thickens the protective layer on the aluminium frame.

			Can folding squares become worn or damaged? The anodised coating on a number of folding squares is to help the tool have a long working life. This does not mean the folding square will not become worn or damaged over time. Depending on the amount of use the folding square experiences will have an effect on if it becomes worn or damaged. The more a folding square is used, it will eventually wear over time. If a folding square is used inappropriately or not looked after then the folding square will easily damage.


			Folding square carry case
			Many folding squares will come with a carry case that is either made of nylon or canvas. Both materials make suitable cases that are tough, lightweight and waterproof.

			Nylon Nylon is a synthetic polymer (plastic) that is able to be produced as sheets. The carry case is made from nylon because it is lightweight, durable and waterproof.

			Canvas Canvas is a plain woven fabric usually made from cotton or linen. The carry case is made from canvas because it is hard wearing, lightweight and waterproof.

			The carry cases need to be lightweight so the folding square can be carried without great effort.

			The cases need to be hard wearing/durable, so they can withstand constant use and protect the folding square.

			Finally, they need to be waterproof so they can prevent any liquids from reaching the folding square and causing any damage.