Top 10 Uses of Aluminium

Working with aluminium in your sheet metal fabrication project offers several advantages, including corrosion resistance, thermal and electrical conductivity, as well as its strong properties. So it’s no wonder it’s used in a variety of applications.

But, as well as metal fabrication services, just what applications is aluminum most suited for?

Well, we have all the answers and more in our blog below. Find out the top uses of aluminium, as well as why it’s a popular metal and even the potential drawbacks of using it.

So…what are the top 10 uses of aluminium?

We know that many companies appreciate the benefits of using aluminium. But just what industries do they operate in, and why is it a popular choice?

1. Architectural

Aluminium provides both strong and lightweight qualities – with an excellent strength-to-weight ratio. This makes it easier to fix buildings. For example, it uses fewer fixings than architectural projects utilising steel would need.

Moreover, it is easier to fabricate, which means it can be folded to fit any desired style or shape – suitable for architects and those in the construction industry looking to utilise it in a specific and complex project.

2. Consumer goods

Aluminium is easy to handle and efficient to manufacture – which is why it’s a popular choice when it comes to consumer goods. This might include the manufacturing of flat-screen TVs, laptops, mobile phones, and even some items of cookware.

What’s more, aluminium has a polished finish which makes it look aesthetically appealing; providing a modern and sleek look that remains timeless.

3. Electrical uses and power lines

Thanks to its low density, aluminium is commonly utilised in electrical applications. As it is a lightweight material, it’s ideal for power lines that span long distances.

Moreover, it’s easier to merge aluminium with wires as it is more ductile – which makes it a popular option over metals such as copper.

4. Packaging applications

Again, as a result of it being lightweight, flexible, and recyclable, aluminium is often utilised in packaging applications for the food industry. For example, in cans that hold food.

It is also hygienic and non-toxic so keeps the smell of food contained – ultimately preventing unwanted aromas.

5. Reflectivity and foil uses

Aluminium has a high level of reflectivity, which means it’s able to bounce back a large proportion of light – without needing to have additional coatings.

This means it’s a more cost-effective metal type to use when it comes to manufacturing mirrors or lighting fittings, which need reflectivity to function or for aesthetic appeal.

6. Transportation

In transportation and the manufacturing of transportation vehicles, aluminium is also a popular choice. It is lighter than other metals, making it an ideal option for reducing fuel emissions and thus enabling a higher level of energy efficiency.

Again, thanks to its lightweight properties, it increases the safety of transportation vehicles and reduces the risk of injury, as it has a higher level of energy absorption.

7. Ships

Again, with its high weight-to-strength ratio, aluminium is also a widely chosen material for help with ship manufacturing.

Ships made with aluminium will have a lower overall mass, allowing for more cargo – meaning more people can be loaded onto the vessel. Ultimately, this reduces the amount of trips these ships need to take to carry every load, so makes processes involving them more efficient.

8. Medicine and health care

As a lightweight material, aluminium is ideal for medical applications. This includes medical equipment such as wheelchairs, operating tables, and dental chairs – as it makes them easier to manoeuvre.

Aluminium is also non-toxic, which makes it safer to use when it comes to surgical instruments and other essential medical devices.

9. Sustainability

As previously discussed, aluminium is a very sustainable material. According to Aston Architectural Aluminium, aluminium uses 95% less energy when recycled than producing new aluminium from raw materials. Furthermore, this also reduces the amount of gas emissions because of the little energy used.

As a result, aluminium is most popular with manufacturers that are trying to obtain recognition as being eco-friendly – as they can say their packaging is 100% recyclable if they use aluminium.

10. Aircraft engineering

With its lightweight properties, strength, and high resistance to corrosion, aluminium is also an ideal material to use when it comes to aircraft engineering. Aluminium offers resistance to UV damage, which is why it is most suitable for aircraft construction.

Aerodynamic designs can also easily be made with aluminium as a result of its flexible formability – meaning they can easily be shaped and molded into complex aircraft components.

Uses of aluminium: FAQs

Does aluminium get rusty?

No, aluminium doesn’t get rusty because it doesn’t contain iron. But it does have the potential to corrode. More specifically, it corrodes when exposed to both oxygen and moisture. This is a process called oxidisation.

If you’re interested in learning what metals rust, you can check out our blog. 

Why is aluminium preferred over other metals in fabrication projects?

There are many advantages to using aluminium in metal fabrication projects. For example, some key advantages it offers are:

• Strength-to-weight ratio: Even though aluminium is a lightweight material, it is able to withstand considerable amounts of stress, making it a strong metal to use.
• Corrosion resistance: Thanks to the protective oxide layer it creates, it resists corrosion so doesn’t require additional treatments.
• Versatility: It’s easy to mould aluminium into a variety of shapes, so it’s perfect for complex projects that require specific shapes.
• Sustainability: In terms of sustainability, aluminium is able to be recycled again and again – without damage or loss to its properties.

What are the disadvantages of using aluminium?

Obviously, with any metal you choose for a fabrication project, there are going to be some drawbacks associated with it. For example, some challenges to using aluminium include:

• Prone to fatigue: Over time, aluminium can be prone to fatigue from excessive loading, which can create cracks and other damage.
• Reaction with acids: Certain chemicals can lead aluminium to discolour.
• Poor health: When exposed to high levels of aluminium, it’s possible for this to cause health problems to an individual. For example, it can contribute to conditions like Alzheimer’s when it accumulates in the brain in large quantities.
• Requires specific skills when welding: Welding aluminium can be harder to do than welding steel. In fact, it requires certain techniques, skills, and equipment.

To find out more about the differences between aluminium and steel, explore our blog.

Achieve Precision and Affordability with Salamander Fabrications in All Your Sheet Metal Projects

If you’re seeking a sheet metal fabrication project that provides precision as well as affordability, look no further than Salamander Fabrications.

Our team has experience in the sheet metal industry that spans decades, so we know what advice and services to provide when it comes to your specific project. When you work with us, our experts will be able to help your projects come to life with services such as laser cutting and powder coating, as well as much more.

Want to know more? Contact our team of experts today.