Aluminium is a soft and lightweight metal with a dull silvery appearance, due to a thin layer of oxidation that forms quickly when it is exposed to air. Aluminium is about one-third as dense as steel or copper; is malleable, ductile, and easily machined and cast; and has excellent corrosion resistance and durability due to the protective oxide layer. It is also nonmagnetic and nonsparking and is the second most malleable metal (after gold) and the sixth most ductile.
Whether measured in terms of quantity or value, the use of Aluminium exceeds that of any other metal except iron, and it is important in virtually all segments of the world economy.
Pure Aluminium has a low tensile strength, but readily forms alloys with many elements such as Copper, Zinc, Magnesium, Manganese and Silicon. When combined with thermo-mechanical processing these Aluminium alloys display a marked improvement in mechanical properties. Aluminium alloys form vital components of aircraft and rockets as a result of their high strength to weight ratio.
When Aluminium is evaporated in a vacuum it forms a coating that reflects both visible light and radiant heat. These coatings form a thin layer of protective Aluminium oxide that does not deteriorate as silver coatings do. In particular, nearly all modern mirrors are made using a thin reflective coating of Aluminium on the back surface of a sheet of float glass. Telescope mirrors are also coated with a thin layer of Aluminium, but are front coated to avoid internal reflections even though this makes the surface more susceptible to damage.
Aluminium Ingots
Aluminium Notch Bar
Aluminium Alloys
Aluminium Wire Rod
Aluminium Extrusion Products
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