You might automatically think of kitchen foil when you think of aluminium, but there are many different uses for this versatile, valuable metal that serves a huge role in many of our manufacturing industries. From car parts to a surface ready for metal bonding adhesive in welding applications, here are some of the main applications of aluminium.
Architectural and House Building
Aluminium is both lightweight and very strong. This makes it ideal for architecture because its strength-to-weight ratio is perfect for building and is higher than the capacity of steel.
For example, aluminium can be used in sheet format for cladding and in extrusion format for panel frameworks. When it is anodised to finish, it needs very little maintenance and also radiates heat well, helping buildings remain energy efficient. Metal bonding adhesive such as www.ct1.com/product-applications/metal-to-metal-adhesive can allow it to be firmly fixed to other metals.
Aluminium is also very popular for fabrication as it can be curved, cut, folded and punched to achieve creative looks in line with an architect’s vision.
Transport
Aluminium is a common choice for transport because of its light weight and incredible strength. This means that the vehicle remains as light and responsive as possible, boosting safety and fuel efficiency. Not only is it used in cars, but it is also used for building planes and their seating.
It can be combined with other metals to increase its strength. By using aluminium in aeronautics, the aviation industry can cut carbon emissions and fuel costs.
Consumer Goods
Because aluminium is efficient and easy to handle, it’s often used to produce consumer goods. These include laptops, flat-screen TVs, smartphones, tablets and household items. As well as the characteristics described above, the choice of aluminium is also good for aesthetic reasons as its bright finish is attractive and sophisticated.
Electrical
Aluminium is great for power lines because of its low density and conductible nature which exceeds copper. It can easily be combined with other wires and it also resists corrosion, allowing cables to withstand harsh elements and last for as long as possible.