Benefits Of Aluminium
Aluminum’s benefits make it a modern, efficient and effective material for building and construction through:
Light Weight
Aluminum is a very light metal with a specific weight of 2.7 g/cm3, about a third of that of steel. Its use where reduces dead-weight and energy consumption while increasing load capacity. This also reduces noise and improves comfort levels.
The lightness makes it possible to simplify the erection phases, transport fully prefabricated components, reduce the loads transmitted to foundations, economize energy either during erection and/or in service, reduce the physical labor.
Functionality
The functionality of structural shapes, due to the extrusion process, makes it possible to improve the geometrical properties of the cross-section by designing a shape that simultaneously gives the minimum weight and the highest structural efficiency; obtain stiffened shapes without using built-up sections, thus avoiding welding or bolting; simplify connecting systems among different component, thus improving joint details; combine different functions of the structural component, thus achieving a more economical and rational profile.
Corrosion Resistance
Aluminum naturally generates a protective thin oxide coating which keeps the metal from making further contact with the environment. It is particularly useful for applications where it is exposed to corroding agents. In general, aluminium alloys are less corrosion-resistant than pure aluminium, except for marine magnesium-aluminium alloys. Different types of surface treatment such as anodising, painting or lacquering can further improve this property.
Electrical and Thermal Conductivity
Aluminium is an excellent heat and electricity conductor and in relation to its weight is almost twice as good a conductor as copper. This has made aluminium the first choice for major power transmission lines. It is also a superb heat sink for many applications that require heat to be drained away rapidly, such as in computer motherboards and LED lights.
Reflectivity
Aluminium is a good reflector of visible light as well as heat, and that together with its low weight, makes it an ideal material for reflectors in, for example, light fittings or rescue blankets. Cool roofs made of coated aluminium are invaluable in reducing internal solar heat within a house, by reflecting up to 95% of sunlight.
Ductility
Aluminium is ductile and has a low melting point and density. It can be processed in several ways in a molten condition. Its ductility allows aluminium products to be formed close to the end of the product’s design. Whether sheets, foil, geometrical configurations, tubes, rods or wires, aluminium is up to them all.
Strength at Low Temperatures
In contrast to steel, which rapidly becomes brittle at low temperatures, aluminium shows increased tensile strength as temperatures drop.
Impermeable and Odourless
Aluminium foil is only 0.007 mm in thickness, but is still durable and completely impermeable, keeping any food wrapped in it free of external tastes or smells. It keeps out ultraviolet rays as well. Moreover, the metal itself is non-toxic and odourless, which makes it ideal for packaging sensitive products such as food or pharmaceuticals. The fact that recycled aluminium can be used reduces the carbon footprint for this stage of food and beverage manufacturers as well.
Non-magnetic
Aluminium is non-magnetic, making it useful for electrical shielding as in computer disks, dish antennas, busbars or magnet housings.
Non-toxic
Aluminium is non-toxic and is used to make woks, pressure cookers and many other cooking utensils without fear. It is easily cleaned and does not contaminate the food at any stage.