Aluminum is clearly a useful and versatile metal, and aluminum plate is perhaps one of its most useful forms. The same wonderful qualities that make aluminum popular for soda cans make aluminum plate popular for industrial uses. There are quite a variety of aluminum alloys used for aluminum plate, and each of those has its own strengths and weaknesses. Aluminum plate has a multitude uses in the aircraft industry and several other industries as well, so aluminum plate suppliers are constantly providing it to keep up with demand.
Aluminum Qualities
Aluminum has not become popular over the years by accident—it is a metal with tremendous advantages. It is light, strong, corrosion-resistant, and recyclable. Aluminum is not magnetic, but it does conduct heat and electricity well. Best of all, aluminum is cheap, a fact that tends to keep aluminum plate suppliers quite busy. Aluminum can be prepared in a number of ways, including being molded, extruded or machined.
Aluminum Alloys Used for Plate
Aluminum plate suppliers tend to have a select few alloys that they use to make aluminum plate. Aluminum 2024 and 2124 alloys are preferred for their machinability, strength and toughness, but they have only fair corrosion resistance. Aluminum 2219 can be used effectively in temperatures from –450 to 600 degrees Fahrenheit. It is resistant to fracture, corrosion and stress cracking.
Aluminum 6061 is as strong as some alloys of steel, but it also features excellent corrosion resistance. It can be welded, machined and finished very effectively.
Aluminum 7050 has high strength as well, so it is frequently used to make thicker plates. Aluminum 7075, 7175 and 7475 are also known for extreme strength with fair workability and corrosion resistance.
Uses for Aluminum Plate
Aluminum plate tends to be used in a number of industries, with the aircraft industry being perhaps the most prominent. Within this industry, aluminum plate maybe used to make structural elements, smaller fixtures and fittings, aircraft landing mats, aircraft skins or cowls, and fuel tanks. Outside of the aerospace industry, aluminum is used to make tool and jig plate, traffic signs and storage tanks. Aluminum plate can also be used in the auto industry for frame, engine or body parts.
If you need aluminum plate for your business, Howard Precision Metals is the supplier you need to call. Visit Howardprecision.com to view their products.