In general, aluminum is a silver-white metal, and more specifically the thirteenth element in the periodic table. The most common form of aluminum found in nature is aluminum sulfate. These are metals that combine two sulfuric acids: one based on an alkaline metal (lithium, sodium, potassium rubidium or cesium) and one based on a metal from the third group of the periodic table, mainly aluminum.
LIGHT
It is one of the lightest metals in the world: it is almost three times lighter than iron. This reduces the cost of aluminum construction. Its use in vehicles reduces dead weight and energy consumption while increasing loading capacity. This also reduces noise and improves comfort levels.
Its strength can be adapted to the application required by modifying the composition of its alloys. Aluminum-magnesium-manganese alloys are an optimal combination of molding with durability, while aluminum-magnesium-silicon alloys are ideal for car body sheets, which show good curing age when subjected to the painting process.
CORROSION RESISTANCE
It is extremely resistant to corrosion, because its surface is always covered by an extremely thin, but very strong layer of oxide. This prevents further contact with the environment. It is especially useful for applications where it is exposed to corrosive agents, such as kitchen cabinets and vehicles. In general, aluminum alloys are less resistant to corrosion than pure aluminum, except for marine magnesium-aluminum alloys. Different types of surface treatment such as anodizing, painting or varnish can further enhance this property.
ELECTRICAL AND THERMAL CONDUCTIVITY
Aluminum is an excellent conductor of heat and electricity and in relation to its weight is almost twice as conductive as copper. This made aluminum the first choice for large power transmission lines. It is also a great heatsink for many applications that require rapid heat removal, such as on computer motherboards and LED lights.
REFLECTIVITY
Aluminum is a good reflector of visible light as well as heat, and this, together with its low weight, makes it an ideal material for reflectors, for example, in luminaires or life-saving blankets. Cool coated aluminum roofs are valuable for reducing the internal solar heat in a home, reflecting up to 95% of the sunlight.
FLEXIBLE
Aluminum is ductile and has a low melting point and density. It can be processed in many ways in the molten state. Its ductility allows the formation of aluminum products near the end of the product design.
RESISTANCE TO LOW TEMPERATURES
Unlike steel, which becomes brittle quickly at low temperatures, aluminum has increased tensile strength as temperatures drop.
NON MAGNETIC
Aluminum is non-magnetic, making it useful for electrical shields such as computer disks, dish antennas, bars or magnet housings.
SOUND AND VILLAGE ABSORPTION
Aluminum is an excellent sound insulator and is used to make roofs. It is also used in car bumpers due to its absorbent properties.
WITHOUT SPINS
Aluminum does not produce sparks when it comes in contact with the same or other non-ferrous metals.
RECYCLABILITY
Aluminum is 100% recyclable and recycled aluminum is identical to the virgin product. This makes it much more economical material for production processes. Only about 5% of the energy required to produce the primary metal is initially required in the recycling process.