Aluminum sheet is a versatile metal that can be used for many purposes. It can be combined into a number of different alloys to further expand its uses. Aluminum sheet in plate form is particularly useful in the aircraft industry, but is also used in automobiles, warehousing, construction and other areas designed to improve our daily lives.
Aluminum Sheet Alloys
Aluminum sheet itself has many useful properties. It is reflective, ductile, malleable, non-magnetic and fully recyclable. Compared to steel, it is strong, lightweight and corrosion resistant. To build up these properties, aluminum sheet is sometimes mixed with other metals to form alloys. Aluminum sheet is often combined with magnesium, silicon, manganese, tin, copper and zinc to form alloys. The advantages of these alloys include lower melting points and increased strength, ductility and resistance to extreme temperatures.
Aluminum Sheet in the Aircraft Industry
The strong and lightweight nature of most aluminum sheet alloys makes them ideal for aircraft use. Aluminum sheet is commonly used in the manufacture of aircraft casings as well as other elements such as fuel tanks, internal compartments and storage areas. Structural elements can be made from 6061 and T6 aluminum sheet. Aluminum sheet is also used to make smaller parts such as control panels and instruments, bolts and fixtures. Typically, high-strength alloys (e.g., 7050, 7075, 7175, and 7475) are most popular in the aircraft industry.
Other Products Using Aluminum Plate
For the same reasons that the aircraft industry uses aluminum sheet, aluminum sheet suppliers also tend to sell a lot of products to the automotive industry. Everything from structural components to engine crankcases can be made from aluminum sheet, while fuel tanks can be made from 6061 aluminum sheet. You may also find aluminum sheet for sale for devices such as road signs, lockers or manufacturing applications. Using aluminum sheet alloys instead of other materials to make these products makes them lighter, corrosion resistant and strong enough to last longer. In addition, in an economy that is becoming more environmentally conscious, aluminum sheet is recyclable, which is a huge benefit of using this material.
