ALUMINIUM

A unique combination of properties makes aluminium and its alloys one of the most versatile engineering and construction materials available today.

The following information has been extracted from “Aluminium Information” published by Capral, and should be used as a guide only.

Lightweight – Aluminium is one of the lightest available commercial metals with a density approximately one third that of steel. Its high strength to weight ratio makes it particularly important to transportation industries allowing increased payloads and fuel savings. Catamaran ferries, petroleum tankers and aircraft are good examples of aluminium’s use in transport. In other fabrications, aluminium’s lightweight can reduce the need for special handling or lifting equipment.

Corrosion Resistance – Aluminium has excellent resistance to corrosion due to the thin layer of aluminium oxide that forms on the surface when it is exposed to air. In many applications, aluminium can be left in mill finished condition. Should additional protection or decorative finishes be required, then the aluminium can be either anodised or painted.

Strong – Although the tensile strength of pure aluminium is not high, mechanical properties can be markedly increased by the addition of alloying elements and tempering. Typical alloying elements are manganese, silicone, copper and magnesium. Whereas steel becomes brittle at low temperatures, aluminium increases in tensile strength and retains excellent toughness.

Workability – Aluminium can be easily fabricated into various forms such as foil, sheets, geometric shapes, rod, tube and wire. It also displays excellent machinability and plasticity ideal for bending, cutting, spinning, roll-forming, hammering, forging and drawing. Aluminium can be turned, milled or bored readily, using the correct toolage. Aluminium is a popular choice for complex sectioned hollow extrusions.

Joining – Almost any method of joining is applicable – rivetting, welding, brazing or soldering. A wide variety of mechanical aluminium fasteners simplifies the assembly of many products. Adhesive bonding of aluminium parts is successfully employed in many applications including aircraft components, car bodies and some building applications.