Common Aluminum Uses to Be Aware Of
Aluminum makes up 8.2 % of the earth’s crust, making it the most abundant metal in the world. Its availability, coupled with its desirable properties, contributes to the metal’s many applications.
This metal’s lightweight nature contributes to its malleability. Thus, industrialists use aluminum in many alloys to make them more flexible.
Many uses for aluminum stem from it being a non-corrosive metal, and its uses cut across various sectors.
If you are wondering what is aluminum used for, you have come to the right page. Join us as we discuss common aluminum uses you need to be aware of.
High-Rise Buildings
Aluminum has high tensile strength, making it ideal for the support needed in a high-rise building. Besides, its non-corrosive nature adds to the durability of the material.
Construction industries love it because it’s one of the lightest metals. If it were any heavier, the buildings would need a deeper foundation translating to higher costs.
Consumer Electronics
Companies use aluminum to manufacture electronics. Manufacturers love it because it’s cheap and widely available. All your gadgets, smartphones, laptops, and TVs may have aluminum in their casing.
Aluminum is malleable and can be polished to give a sophisticated look. Besides, its heat conductivity properties make it a better replacement for steel and plastics.
Power Lines
At first, electricians used copper for wiring power grids. However, they discovered that aluminum had a better conductivity to weight ratio.
Aluminum weighs two-thirds as much as copper. Thus, engineers can get the desired electrical resistance with less material. This implies that the wiring costs will be much cheaper.
Window Frames
Ever wondered what metal holds your panes? Most construction industries prefer using aluminum because it’s malleable and exceptionally durable. It’s more resistant to damages like marring and cracking.
Besides, aluminum makes it easy to replicate intricate window designs. Aluminum is ideal for custom metal products.
Homeowners love it as it is a cheaper option than wood. However, it may not offer much insulation.
Aircraft Components
The Wright brothers used aluminum to make the first aero-engine case. Since then, aluminum has been the go-to metal for aircraft components.
Well, it’s no surprise, given the properties of the metal. Its tensile strength to weight ratio allows room for more cargo.
Transport Industry
Another common aluminum use is in the transport industry. They use aluminum in the construction of ships, yachts, and trains.
More and more, automobile manufacturers prefer using aluminum over steel. Its tensile strength contributes to its high holding capacity. Thus, it’s less likely to crack under high pressure.
Besides, its lightweight adds to the speed of the vehicle.
Common Aluminum Uses
The above aluminum uses are the tip of the iceberg—the uses of aluminum run across various sectors due to its desirable properties. Engineers in construction and the auto industry love it because of its lightweight and malleability.
Besides, it’s highly resistant to corrosion which enhances the safety of aluminum vehicles. If you had fun reading this piece, check out more content on this site.
