Understanding AAMA Specifications

Q: We have a chance to take on a new job that requires us to meet a specification issued by the American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA). We have coated aluminum parts but we have never had anyone ask us to meet the conditions outlined in the AAMA 2604 specification. We are not sure if we can meet it or what we have to do to comply with this. Can you give us some idea of what we need to know to meet this? 

A: The AAMA Guidelines are written for the application of coatings on architectural aluminum products. They cover the treatment, coating specifics and performance for aluminum extrusion and building cladding. There are three different guidelines; AAMA 2603, AAMA 2604 and AAMA 2605. Each of the specifications elevates the performance and they are commonly thought of for their requirement for sunlight protection. The degree of color and gloss loss is different, with the 2603 having a relatively modest standard and the 2605 having the highest standard for performance in sunlight. The AAMA 2604 requires color loss of no greater than 5 hunter units after 5 years of Florida sunlight exposure and a minimum of 30% gloss retention. This part of the specification is not that hard; just select the right powder that complies with the guidelines for color and gloss retention and make absolutely certain that you have it fully cured.

The balance of the performance requirements may be a little more challenging. You will need to take 3,000 hours of salt spray (ASTM B117) with no removal of film and few No.8 blisters as defined by ASTM D714. That means you will need a suitable non-chrome or chrome treatment made for aluminum products. If you do not have a good system with a conversion coating made specifically for aluminum, do not attempt to take on this work. If you are unsure if your current system can work, make up some panels of aluminum, scribe them for a tape adhesion test and then boil them in DI water for 20 minutes. Take them out, dry them and do the tape pull. If you pass, you may be good. If you fail, do not take the AAMA 2604 work. Get a full copy of the specification for more details.