The most common uses of aluminum
The most common uses of aluminum include:
transport
build
electrical
consumer goods
transport
Aluminum is used for transportation due to its unparalleled strength to weight ratio. Its lighter weight means less force is required to move the vehicle, thus improving fuel efficiency. Although aluminum is not the strongest metal, alloying it with other metals can help increase its strength. Its corrosion resistance is an additional benefit, eliminating the need for heavy and expensive anti-corrosion coatings.
Although the automobile industry still relies heavily on steel, the power to improve fuel efficiency and reduce carbon dioxide emissions has led to the wider use of aluminum. Experts predict that by two years, the average aluminum content in cars will increase by 60%.
Aluminum Shinkansen e6
Shinkansen E6 train
Japan's Shinkansen and Shanghai's maglev high-speed railway systems also use aluminum. This metal enables designers to reduce the weight of trains and reduce frictional resistance.
Aluminum is also known as "winged metal" because it is the ideal choice for airplanes; Again, due to its lightness, robustness, and flexibility. In fact, aluminum was used in the framework of Zeppelin airships before the invention of airplanes. Today, modern aircraft use aluminum alloy from the fuselage to the cockpit instruments. Even space shuttles, such as those, contain 50% to 90% aluminum alloy in their parts.
build
Due to the corrosion resistance of aluminum, aluminum buildings require almost no maintenance. Aluminum also has thermal efficiency, which can keep houses warm in winter and cool in summer. In addition, aluminum has a pleasant surface treatment that can be bent, cut, and welded into any desired shape, allowing modern architects unlimited freedom to build buildings that cannot be built with wood, plastic, or steel.
Aluminum London Water Sports Center
London Aquatics Centre
The first building to extensively use aluminum was the Empire State Building in New York, built in 1931. Today, aluminum is often used in the construction of high-rise buildings and bridges. Aluminum has a lighter weight, making it easier, faster, and more convenient to use. It also helps to reduce other costs. Due to increased weight, steel structures require deeper foundations, which will drive up construction costs.
Famous aluminum modern buildings include the headquarters of Bank of China in Hong Kong and Zaha Hadid's London Water Sports Center in London.
electrical
Although aluminum has a conductivity of only 63% that of copper, its low density makes it the best choice for long-distance power lines. If copper is used, the supporting structure will be heavier, more numerous, and more expensive. Aluminum is also more ductile than copper, making it easier to form wires. Finally, its corrosion resistance helps to protect wires from the influence of elements.
In addition to power cords and cables, aluminum is also used in motors, appliances, and power systems. TV antennas, satellite antennas, and even some LED light bulbs are made of aluminum.
consumer goods
The appearance of aluminum is the reason why it is often used in consumer goods.
Smartphones, tablets, laptops, and tablet TVs are increasingly being made of aluminum. Its appearance makes modern technology products look fashionable and exquisite, while also lightweight and durable. It is a perfect combination of form and function, which is crucial for consumer goods. Aluminum is increasingly replacing plastic and steel components because it is stronger, more resilient, and lighter than steel. It also allows for rapid dissipation of heat, preventing electronic devices from overheating.
Aluminum MacBook
Apple's Macbook
Apple primarily uses aluminum components in its iPhone and MacBook. Other high-end electronic brands, such as audio manufacturer Bang&Olufsen, also highly favor aluminum.
Interior designers like to use aluminum because it is easy to shape and looks great. Aluminum furniture includes tables, chairs, lighting fixtures, photo frames, and decorative panels.
Of course, the aluminum foil in the kitchen is aluminum, as well as pots and fryers typically made of aluminum. These aluminum products have good thermal conductivity, are non-toxic, rust resistant, and are easy to clean.
Aluminum cans are used for packaging food and beverages. Coca Cola and Pepsi have been using aluminum cans since 1967.
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