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About aluminium material density

Types of aluminium material density

Aluminium is a nonferrous metal with broad applicability due to its low density, suitable for various construction requirements. Notably, this metal comes in divergent types, each distinguished by density and a variety of physical properties. So what are the aluminium densities materials? Here are the common types of material densities of aluminium.

1020 Aluminum

This alloy epitomizes among the most generally employed due to its fabrication ease and well-compacted physical properties. In addition, it features a density of about 2.75 grams per cubic centimeter, significantly enhancing its workability. It also has a moderate density compared to other metals, thus leading to its applicability in manufacturing components that require strength. However, this comes without much weight.

6061 Aluminum

The 6061 aluminium alloy is a precipitation-hardening alloy, comprising magnesium and silicon as major alloying constituents. This alloy, available in extruded forms, anodized, and untreated, has a density of approximately 2.70 g/cm³. It is prominent in structural and marine applications because of its improved resistance to corrosion and excellent workability and weldability properties.

6063 Aluminum

Commonly used for extrusion processes, this alloy has a density parallel to 6061, about 2.70 g/cm³. It possesses superior formability features, which form dense, complex shapes without compromising structural integrity. As a result, it finds widespread usage in architectural applications like window frames and bridges. Moreover, it always retains its lightweight properties.

7075 Aluminum

Aluminium 7075 incorporates zinc as its chief alloying component and is well-known for its outstanding strength characteristics, comparable to many steel grades. However, it has a density of 2.96 g/cm³. While this density is slightly higher than the 6061 and 6063 alloys, it is still relatively low compared to most other materials used in construction. Its high-density form signifies an ideal option for absorbent structural elements in aerospace applications, where strength becomes indispensable but not at the expense of weight.

Differences of aluminium material density

Aluminium alloy densities are dissimilar and depend on the alloying constituents and manufacturing procedures used. Aluminum material density ranges from 2.63 to 3 g/cm³ and impacts their applicability in divergent industries. Here are the densities of the different aluminium materials.

1000 Series Density

This series anomaly among the densest aluminium materials, most alloys contain 99% or higher aluminium. 1100 contains 2.7 g/cm³, which is ideal for thermal applications and chemical processing.

2000 Series Density

They have some of the highest density due to copper content. For instance, 2024 has a density of 2.78 g/cm³. Therefore, they are suitable for military and aerospace applications.

3000 Series Density

This series contains manganese, which reduces strength but increases ductility. For instance, 3003 has a density of about 2.73 g/cm³. They are suitable for chemical equipment and storage tanks.

4000 Series Density

This series contains silicon, which lowers the melting point. For example, 4045 has a density of about 2.68 g/cm³. They are also suitable for applications requiring good fluidity.

5000 Series Density

These contain magnesium, which enhances corrosion resistance. For instance, 5052 has a density of about 2.68 g/cm³. This density makes them ideal for marine and automotive applications.

6000 Series Density

Alloys in this series have moderate density values. For example, 6061 has a density of about 2.70 g/cm³. They are ideal for structural components and general engineering.

7000 Series Density

This series has the highest density values due to the zinc content. 7075 has a density of about 2.96 g/cm³. This makes them suitable for aerospace applications requiring high strength.

Industrial applications of aluminium material density

Metal density of aluminium makes it applicable to divergent settings and with distinct densities, creating suitability for specific industrial properties. Here are some of the common usages of these materials in industrial applications.

Aerospace

Application of 7075 and 2024 in the aerospace industry is due to their high strength and stress properties. They construct aircraft structures, wings, and fuselages. Typically, with lower density, the aluminium becomes ideal in aerospace since it does not add much weight to the aircraft, making it easier to fly.

Transportation

Most of the transportation industry uses the 6061 aluminium alloy for truck bodies, trailers, and railway carriages. Normally, the alloy's combination of lightness, density, and high strength makes it an ideal material for automotive parts, shipbuilding, and train car manufacture. Most importantly, reduced weight contributes to improved fuel efficiency in vehicles.

Construction

Aluminium 6063 usage is typical in the construction industry for window frames, doors, and structural components. The material's high resistance to corrosion, coupled with its moderate density, ensures long-term sustainability, particularly in outdoor settings. Besides, the extrudable nature of the material permits the manufacture of divergent shapes to suit specific architectural designs.

Packaging

Commercially pure aluminium, for instance, 1100 is often used in packaging, particularly in food and pharmaceutical containers. Usually, the alloy's purity, combined with its low density, ensures it does not react with food or medicine. This keeps the information intact hence promoting a longer shelf life.

Marine Applications

Aluminium densities of 5005 and 5083 are typically used in shipbuilding and boat manufacturing. These alloys provide resistance to saltwater corrosion, hence making them ideal for marine environments. Further, their moderate density ensures that vessels remain buoyant while offering strength and durability, all the contrary to heavy environments.

Sporting Goods

Both densities and strength properties of aluminium alloys make them ideal materials for sporting goods like bicycles, golf clubs, and ski equipment. Usually, the 7075 alloy is favored for its high strength-to-weight ratio, making it an ideal component for high-performance gear. On the other hand, 6061 is popularly used for frames and other structural components.

Product specifications and features of aluminium material density

Product specifications

  • Tensile strength: This refers to the resistance offered to a material by a unit of stress. In most cases, it is measured in megapascals. Common tensile strength of aluminium and steel density includes; 1020 has a minimum tensile strength of 130 MPa.
  • Density: This refers to the degree of compactness of a substance. Commonly, it is expressed in grams per cubic centimeter. Most importantly, 1020 has a density of 2.7 g/cm³.
  • Modulus of elasticity: It is the ratio between stress and strain in the elastic, hence linear region of the stress-strain curve of a given material. Usually, it is measured in megapascals. Common modulus of 1020 steel includes; density of 2.7 g/cm³.
  • Yield strength: This refers to the indicated stress level after deformation has permanently occurred in a given material. Additionally, it is commonly measured in megapascals. Yield strength of 1020 steel includes; 130 MPa minimum and 165 MPa maximum.

How to install

Installing the aluminium material depends on the application and usage. However, general procedures include preparation, cutting, fastening, and finishing.

Preparation entails gathering all the required tools and materials and then having the aluminium material marked to the required specifications. Further, use a saw or a cutting torch to cut it to size. Also, wear a clamping tool and safety goggles when doing the cutting to avoid any harm.

The next step is fastening. This involves putting the cut pieces together. Normally, one can use rivets, screws, or welding, depending on whether the application requires a permanent or a non-permanent bond.

Lastly, finishing includes polishing the material to have a smooth finish. Also, one can apply protective coating to prevent corrosion.

Maintenance and repair

  • Aluminium maintenance: Regular inspection should be done to identify possible signs of corrosion. Besides, a clean-the aluminium surface should be cleaned before a coat of wax or sealant is applied to offer protection against pollutants. Inspecting the sealant or wax regularly and reapplying as needed goes a long way in ensuring sustained protection.
  • Repair: Although aluminium rarely rusts, worn-out areas can be experienced. Usually, repairs involve removing corroded sections or parts of materials and replacing them with new ones. You can use welding or adhesive bonding for a more permanent solution.

Q&A

Q1. Which factors influence aluminium's material density?

The density is influenced by the alloying elements added to the aluminium, which contribute to the increase in density. Also, its fabrication methods significantly impact the density.

Q2. What are the advantages of aluminium density vs steel density?

Aluminium has a high strength-to-weight ratio despite its low density. Conversely, steel has low density since it comes with a high strength mass ratio. Usually, it requires less space, and it is more economical than aluminium. Unfortunately, aluminium is subject to corrosion unlike steel. Lastly, aluminium is highly recyclable compared to steel.

Q3. What is the role of aluminium in construction compared to steel?

Usually, aluminium comes with low density, making it lighter than steel. Also, it is highly resistant to corrosion. Although it comes with low tensile strength compared to steel, it still offers high durability, especially when used in roofing and building facades. Lastly, aluminium is highly recyclable compared to steel.

Q4. How do people store aluminium materials?

Aluminium materials are stored in a cool and dry area to avoid corrosion or rusting. They should be covered in plastic wraps to limit exposure to pollutants. Also, stack aluminium items in a way they don’t scratch or dent each other. Further, label them appropriately so they don’t need to get in contact with each other when need arises.

Q5. How can one differentiate between aluminium and steel metals?

Simply, aluminium metal comes with light density, while steel metal comes with heavy density. Also, aluminium has silvery-white color while steel has a shiny appearance. Additionally, aluminium tends to oxidize, hence forming a white powder like layer on the surface, while steel rusts, forming a reddish layer.