subject: Applications of aluminium sheet [print this page] Applications of aluminium sheet Applications of aluminium sheet
There is more aluminium in the Earth's crust than any other metal. It's the third most abundant material on the planet after oxygen and silicon, and makes up 8 % of the Earth's solid surface. An amazing 31.9 million tonnes was produced in 2005, and it's expected that 45 million tonnes will be produced in 2012.
Aluminium which is pure has a low tensile strength aluminium foil, for example, is 99% pure aluminium. As such, it is often combined with other metals such as copper, zinc, manganese and magnesium to form alloys. These alloys have an improved strength to weight ratio and are used in rockets and aircraft. Other uses include packaging, construction, CDs, heat sinks, paint and pyrotechnics.
The use of aluminium is not confined to industrial applications; many uses for aluminium sheet can be found around the home such as lighting fixtures, chairs and tables. As it is excellent at conducting heat, it is also used for cooking utensils and oven coverings.
Aluminium sheet comes in several grades which are useful for many applications. Grade 1050 is a general purpose aluminium sheet. It is easy to weld, is very resistant to corrosion and is ductile. Its uses include general fabrication and the food industry. Grade 5251 is widely used in marine applications as it is more resistant to corrosion than Grade 1050. Grade 5754 is used more in industry as it is more hard wearing. Grade 5052 is a heavy duty aluminium sheet, and is used in airplane chassis, tanks and hydraulic presses.
Here at MetalOffcuts.co.uk, we stock all grades of aluminium sheet in a range of finishes, such as plain semi bright, brushed, high bright polished and stucco embossed. Whatever size of job you have in mind, you'll be sure to find an aluminium sheet up to the job.
