What is made of aluminum and why?

Aluminum alloys - grades, properties and applications

Aluminum is a silvery-white, lightweight paramagnetic metal. First obtained by the Danish physicist Hans Oersted in 1825. In the periodic table of D.I. Mendeleev it has the number 13 and the symbol Al, the atomic mass is 26.98.

Aluminum production

To produce aluminum, bauxite is used - a rock that contains aluminum oxide hydrates. The world's reserves of bauxite are almost unlimited and are incommensurate with the dynamics of demand.

Bauxite is crushed, ground and dried. The resulting mass is first heated with steam and then treated with alkali - most of the aluminum oxide passes into the alkaline solution. After this, the solution is stirred for a long time.

At the electrolysis stage, alumina is exposed to an electric current of up to 400 kA. This allows the bond between the oxygen and aluminum atoms to be broken, leaving only liquid metal.

The aluminum is then cast into ingots or various elements are added to it to create aluminum alloys.

Aluminum alloys

The most common elements in aluminum alloys are copper, manganese, magnesium, zinc and silicon. Less common are alloys with titanium, beryllium, zirconium and lithium.

Aluminum alloys are conventionally divided into two groups: cast and wrought.

To make casting alloys, molten aluminum is poured into a mold that matches the configuration of the resulting product. These alloys often contain significant silicon impurities to improve castability.

Wrought alloys are first cast into ingots and then shaped into the desired shape.

This happens in several ways depending on the type of product:

1. By rolling, if necessary, to obtain sheets and foil.
2. By pressing, if you need to obtain profiles, pipes and rods.
3. Molding to obtain complex shapes of semi-finished products.
4. Forging, if you need to obtain complex shapes with increased mechanical properties.

Aluminum alloy grades

To mark aluminum alloys in accordance with GOST 4784-97, an alphanumeric system is used, in which:

• A - technical aluminum;
• D - duralumin;
• AK - aluminum alloy, malleable;
• AB - avial;
• B - high-strength aluminum alloy;
• AL - cast aluminum alloy;
• AMg - aluminum-magnesium alloy;
• AMts - aluminum-manganese alloy;
• SAP - sintered aluminum powders;
• SAS - sintered aluminum alloys.

After the first set of characters, the alloy grade number is indicated, and after the number is a letter that indicates its condition:

• M - alloy after annealing (soft);
• T - after hardening and natural aging;
• A - clad (a pure layer of aluminum is applied);
• N - hard-worked;
• P - semi-hardened.

Aluminum-magnesium alloys

These ductile alloys have good weldability, corrosion resistance and a high level of fatigue strength.

Aluminum-magnesium alloys contain up to 6% magnesium. The higher its content, the stronger the alloy. Each percent increase in magnesium concentration increases the tensile strength by approximately 30 MPa and the yield strength by approximately 20 MPa.

Under such conditions, the relative elongation decreases, but only slightly, remaining within 30–35%.

However, when the magnesium content exceeds 6%, the mechanical structure of the alloy in the cold-worked state becomes unstable, and corrosion resistance deteriorates.

To improve strength, chromium, manganese, titanium, silicon or vanadium are added to the alloys. Impurities of copper and iron, on the contrary, negatively affect alloys of this type - they reduce weldability and corrosion resistance.

Aluminum-manganese alloys

These are strong and ductile alloys that have a high level of corrosion resistance and good weldability.

To obtain a fine-grained structure, alloys of this type are alloyed with titanium, and manganese is added to maintain stability in the cold-worked state. The main impurities in Al-Mn alloys are iron and silicon.

Aluminum-copper-silicon alloys

Alloys of this type are also called alcusines. Due to their high technical properties, they are used in sleeve bearings, as well as in the manufacture of cylinder blocks. They have high surface hardness, so they are difficult to break in.

Aluminum-copper alloys

The mechanical properties of alloys of this type in a heat-strengthened state sometimes even exceed the mechanical properties of some low-carbon steels. Their main drawback is their low corrosion resistance, which is why these alloys are treated with surface protective coatings.

Aluminum-copper alloys are alloyed with manganese, silicon, iron and magnesium. The latter has the greatest influence on the properties of the alloy: alloying with magnesium significantly increases the yield strength and strength. Adding iron and nickel to the alloy increases its heat resistance, and silicon increases its ability to undergo artificial aging.

Aluminum-silicon alloys

Alloys of this type are otherwise called silumins. Some of them are modified with additions of sodium or lithium: the presence of literally 0.05% lithium or 0.1% sodium increases the silicon content in the eutectic alloy from 12% to 14%. The alloys are used for decorative casting, the manufacture of mechanism cases and elements of household appliances, since they have good casting properties.

Aluminum-zinc-magnesium alloys

Durable and well processed. A typical example of a high-strength alloy of this type is B95. This strength is explained by the high solubility of zinc and magnesium at a melting point of up to 70% and up to 17.4%, respectively. When cooled, the solubility of elements decreases noticeably.

The main disadvantage of these alloys - low corrosion resistance during mechanical stress - is corrected by alloying with copper.

Avial

Avial is a group of alloys of the aluminum-magnesium-silicon system with minor additions of other elements (Mn, Cr, Cu). The name is derived from the abbreviation of the phrase “aviation aluminum”.

Avial began to be used after the discovery by D. Hanson and M. Geiler of the effect of artificial aging and thermal hardening of this group of alloys due to the release of Mg2Si.

These alloys are characterized by high ductility and satisfactory corrosion resistance. Forged and stamped parts of complex shapes are made from aircraft. For example, spars of helicopter rotor blades. To improve corrosion resistance, the copper content is sometimes reduced to 0.1%.

The alloy is also actively used to replace stainless steel in mobile phone cases.

Physical properties

• Density - 2712 kg/m3.
• Melting point - from 658°C to 660°C.
• Specific heat of fusion - 390 kJ/kg.
• Boiling point - 2500 °C.
• The specific heat of evaporation is 10.53 MJ/kg.
• Specific heat capacity - 897 J/kg·K.
• Electrical conductivity - 37·106 S/m.
• Thermal conductivity - 203.5 W/(m K).

Chemical composition of aluminum alloys

Aluminum alloys
Brand	Mass fraction of elements, %	Density, kg/dm³
GOST	ISO209-1-89	Silicon (Si)	Iron (Fe)	Copper (Cu)	Manganese (Mn)	Magnesium (Mg)	Chromium (Cr)	Zinc (Zn)	Titanium (Ti)	Other	Aluminum no less
Every	Sum
AD000	A199.8 1080A	0,15	0,15	0,03	0,02	0,02	0,06	0,02	0,02	99,8	2,7
AD00 1010	A199.7 1070A	0,2	0,25	0,03	0,03	0,03	0,07	0,03	0,03	99,7	2,7
AD00E 1010E	EA199.7 1370	0,1	0,25	0,02	0,01	0,02	0,01	0,04	Boron:0.02 Vanadium+titanium:0.02	0,1	99,7	2,7

In the distant past, due to the high cost of aluminum, it was used to make jewelry. Thus, scales with aluminum and gold bowls were presented to D. I. Mendeleev in 1889.

When the cost of aluminum decreased, the fashion for jewelry made from this metal passed away. But even today it is used to make jewelry. In Japan, for example, aluminum is used to replace silver in the production of national jewelry.

Cutlery

Aluminum cutlery and cookware continue to be popular. In particular, aluminum flasks, pots and spoons are widely used in the army.

Glass making

Aluminum is widely used in glass making. High reflectivity and low cost of vacuum deposition are the main reasons for using aluminum in the manufacture of mirrors.

Food industry

Aluminum is registered as a food additive E173. It is used as a food coloring and also to preserve food from mold. E173 colors confectionery products in a silver color.

Military industry

Due to its light weight and low cost, aluminum is widely used in the manufacture of small arms - machine guns and pistols.

Rocketry

Aluminum and its compounds are used as rocket fuel in two-component rocket propellants and as a combustible component in solid rocket propellants.

Aluminum energy

In the aluminum energy industry, aluminum is used to produce hydrogen and thermal energy, as well as to generate electricity in air-aluminum electrochemical generators.

Source: https://ferrolabs.ru/blog/alyuminiy-i-ego-splavy/

Aluminum foil: Why it should NOT be used for cooking

Find out what the real dangers of cooking with aluminum foil are and what precautions you should take.

Aluminum foil is often used for cooking. This material has many advantages: it can withstand high temperatures and has good thermal conductivity. Most often, meat, fish or vegetables are baked in foil. It is very thin, and therefore it is difficult for it to get burned.

Why is it better not to use aluminum foil in cooking?

• Why aluminum foil is not the best choice for cooking
• What is aluminum?
• Where can you find aluminum?
• What happens when aluminum gets into our body?
• Do not use aluminum foil for oven baking!

However, recent studies have shown that aluminum foil "transfers" a certain amount of this metal into products . In turn, this can negatively affect your health. That is why today we want to talk about what this material is and what effect it has on our body.

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Why aluminum foil is not the best choice for cooking

Aluminum foil is very thin sheets of this material. Their thickness is no more than 0.2 mm. That is why they are so flexible and easily take any shape.

What is aluminum?

This chemical element belongs to metals. It can be found in large quantities in nature, including in living beings. Aluminum is widely used in industry, primarily due to its physical properties. Among them are the following:

• Strength. That is, the ability of a metal to absorb energy before it deforms or breaks.
• Ductility. This is a physical property due to which it is possible to obtain the thinnest sheets.
• Plastic. Aluminum can be bent without breaking. Thanks to this property, aluminum is used to make wire for wires.
• Appearance. This metal resembles silver in its color and shine. That’s why it is used to make jewelry.
• It is a good conductor of electric current.
• Has good wear resistance.
• Has a low price.
• It can be recycled and used again.

Where can you find aluminum?

As you understand, aluminum foil is not the only option for using this metal. It can be found in a wide variety of household items, from roofing and cars to frying pans and pots. To save money, other, more expensive materials are often mixed with it.

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Let’s make a reservation right away: household utensils made of aluminum pose absolutely no threat. However, if you wrap food in aluminum foil and expose it to high temperatures, problems may arise. Moreover, the interaction of aluminum with sour or spicy foods is especially dangerous .

What happens when aluminum gets into our body?

If this is a small amount of metal, then it’s okay, the body does an excellent job of removing it. How to understand what volume we are talking about? We recommend that you focus on the following figure: 40 mg per 1 kg of weight per day. That is, if your weight is 60 kg, the permissible dose is 2.4 g.

It is worth noting that aluminum foil is far from its only source. For example, this metal can be found in the following products:

• Corn
• Yellow cheese
• Salt
• Tea
• Aromatic spices
• Herbs
• Certain medications such as antacids
• Drinking water

Common diseases associated with high levels of aluminum in the body include the following:

• Alzheimer's disease
• Kidney problems
• Bone diseases

In addition, aluminum negatively affects the growth of new brain cells.

Do not use aluminum foil for oven baking!

Never scrub pans and pots with hard brushes or use sharp objects when cooking. The fact is that these kitchen utensils are covered with a protective inert layer. It appears due to oxidation and prevents aluminum from direct contact with products.

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In turn, foil does not have such a layer. Therefore, during the cooking process under the influence of high temperatures, aluminum easily penetrates into the products.

So, aluminum foil is a wonderful material. Use it to store food, such as wrapping sandwiches. However, we do not recommend that you bake meat or fish in it. This can be hazardous to health! Published by econet.ru.

Source: https://econet.ru/articles/folga-iz-alyuminiya-pochemu-ee-ne-stoit-ispolzovat-dlya-gotovki

Aluminum cookware - benefits and harm to the human body, product care and review of the best with prices

6 Jan 2018 Tell VKontakte in Odnoklassniki

Bowls, pots, pans, casserole dishes, baking dishes, spoons, and forks are made from aluminum. Some housewives avoid such kitchen equipment, citing the mythical harm of aluminum cookware. Opponents of such products claim that the metal from the container penetrates into the food and harms the body. Is it so? Is it possible to cook in aluminum cookware without danger to health?

What is aluminum

Aluminum has a silvery-white tint, it bends and melts easily. The main advantage of this material is its weight; it is one of the lightest metals. It is also valued for its good thermal conductivity.

At one time, aluminum was called “flying”; this metal was used in the construction of aircraft. To add strength, an admixture of magnesium is added to the composition. This alloy is called duralumin and is often used in the production of tableware.

To reduce the cost of products, silicon is added to aluminum to produce silumin.

Is aluminum harmful to the body?

The World Health Organization (WHO) made a statement in 1998 that aluminum does not cause harm to humans if the amount of metal entering the body does not exceed 30-50 mg per day. It was also stated that this material is not a carcinogen, that is, it cannot cause cancer. As for Alzheimer's disease, no connections were identified between it and aluminum entering the body.

Are aluminum cookware harmful?

It has been established that a person receives a portion of natural aluminum every day along with food and water, but this does not affect health in any way. But what about dishes made of this metal? Scientists have conducted research and proven that the minimum dose of aluminum that enters food during storage and cooking does not exceed 3 mg, which is 10 times less than the safe amount.

Advantages

Aluminum cookware has a lot of advantages, so no one refuses to produce it. Among the advantages, the following factors stand out:

• price;
• durability;
• ease;
• variety of forms;
• corrosion resistance (does not rust).

These qualities are explained by the abundance of aluminum and its low weight. This metal is ductile and can be easily machined (stamping, bending) in production. Aluminum has a low melting point, which allows casting. The manufacture of products from this material does not require a large amount of energy consumption and financial investment.

If you decide to get a new bowl, then ask the seller how the aluminum cookware was made. Buckets, baking sheets, and bowls will last less if they are made using the stamping method, while cast aluminum utensils are strong and durable, but they are more expensive.

Pay attention to the thickness of the walls: if it is a frying pan, then the thickness of the bottom should not be less than 1.5-2 mm. Thin-walled stamped aluminum cookware bends easily, is subject to deformation, and quickly fails, but with proper care and use it will last forever.

Why is it dangerous?

When cooking acidic foods, such as marinade in a pan, the walls of the cookware turn white. This is due to the fact that under the influence of an aggressive environment, the oxide film, which appears as a result of the oxidation reaction of aluminum in air, is destroyed. This film is a corrosive layer that occurs when oxygen molecules diffuse with the metal. Initially, it is formed after anodic oxidation (chemical anodization) during manufacturing.

If the dishes are anodized, the resulting artificial oxide film will be more resistant and durable. It prevents pure metal from penetrating into food. If it is destroyed, food may acquire a metallic taste, but this will not affect health in any way. The film can be restored, but it will no longer be as strong. To do this, you need to fill a container with water and wait 15 minutes. After this, the dishes should be wiped with a dry, clean cloth. These actions will lead to partial renewal of the film.

What can you cook in aluminum cookware?

You cannot ferment cabbage in an aluminum container or cook and store sour dishes in it, otherwise the saucepan will become unusable. Even restoring the film won't help. In dishes made of aluminum, you can cook any dishes that do not contain acidic ingredients:

• porridge of any kind;
• dairy, but not fermented milk products;
• soup;
• meat;
• fish;
• pasta;
• non-acidic vegetables cooked without adding vinegar;
• sweet fruit jam.

Why can't it be stored in aluminum containers?

Take an enamel saucepan for storing and preparing marinades and starters, and set aside a metal one for another occasion. Otherwise, the protective film of aluminum cookware will dissolve and give the food an unpleasant taste. If you nevertheless cooked borscht in such a saucepan, then it is better to pour it into another container after cooking. Aluminum spoons do not have time to be exposed to acid, so you can safely eat sauerkraut with them.

How to care for aluminum cookware

Aluminum kitchen utensils need to be looked after very carefully. Do not use iron brushes or abrasives. A soft sponge and liquid detergent perfectly remove all dirt from aluminum dishes. If something burns on a pot or pan during cooking, use the following means:

• Soda solution. Dissolve one tablespoon of baking soda in one liter of warm water. Wash off the carbon deposits and carry out manipulations to restore the oxide film.
• Vinegar solution. This cleanser is used to add shine to the outside. Dilute vinegar and water in equal proportions. Dampen a clean napkin in the mixture and wipe the pan, stewpan, casserole dish and other aluminum products. Dry with a towel.
• Mustard powder. This simple remedy will rid your kitchen utensils of grease and clean the non-stick coating. You need to rub mustard on the walls and rinse with clean warm water.
• Coca Cola. You will be surprised, but you can wash off old carbon or scale with regular cola. Soak a sponge in the drink and gently wipe the sides of the aluminum cookware, leave for a few minutes and rinse. If there is contamination at the bottom of the saucepan or frying pan, simply pour cola, boil, wait two minutes and rinse with clean water. The smoke will go away.
• Ammonia. You can restore aluminum cookware to its former beauty and shine using ammonia. For a liter of water, take one tablespoon of ammonia and a little detergent. Mix these components and wipe the dishes with the resulting mixture, rinse with water. She's shining again.

Price for aluminum cookware

The production of aluminum spoons, bowls and pans has not stopped. Popular companies produce series of such products that look no worse on the stove than expensive cookware. Prices in Moscow and St. Petersburg for aluminum cookware are as follows:

Product type	Volume, liter	Price, rubles
Can	10	1160
Large saucepan	4,5	370
Small saucepan	2,5	260
Colander	3	280
Bucket	10	710
Kazan	8	1300

Aluminum cookware “How it works” No. 93

how to wash aluminum cookware

Reviews

Victoria, 43 years old I have been using an aluminum pan for 20 years. I cook porridge and soups in it. Everything is fine. It is not difficult to care for; it is easy to clean with ordinary detergents and a sponge. But what I like most is its weight. The aluminum pan is light, almost weightless. I didn’t notice any changes in the taste of the products, although they can be stored in it for several days in a row. Tatyana, 51 years old I had aluminum dishes, a saucepan and a ladle. Got it from my mother. I threw them away because I heard a lot about the dangers of aluminum for the human body. I didn't take any risks. Why do I need this if now there is a large selection of dishes made from safe materials and more beautiful to look at. My eyes widen when I buy something in a store. Polina, 34 years old I have never thought about the possible harm of aluminum bowls and pans. I always have an old ladle handy in my kitchen in which I boil milk. A convenient thing, although it has lost its original appearance. But the saucepans didn’t take root with me, although there were a lot of them. I prefer my beautiful and practical enamel set. Victor, 63 years old I am an avid fisherman. I can go fishing for two or three days, so I always take tourist things with me, among which I have an aluminum cauldron. I cook fish soup in it if the fishing is successful. Plus: it is lightweight and easy to care for, which is important in camping conditions. My review of dishes made from this material is positive. Found an error in the text? Select it, press Ctrl + Enter and we will fix everything!

Source: https://sovets.net/16579-alyuminievaya-posuda.html

What is made of aluminum list

The discovery of aluminum made it possible to create light and strong stairs, build residential and industrial buildings and make durable windows

Metallurgical company was attacked by hackers

The chemical element aluminum was first discovered by a Danish physicist in 1825. The discovery of a new substance turned out to be significant. As can be seen from the materials of the site http://www.met-eco.ru/al, subsequently people identified many options and ways to use aluminum in domestic conditions. At first, aluminum contained impurities; the pure element was obtained in 1925 by electrolysis.

Previously, it was assumed that it would be impossible to find pure aluminum under ordinary natural conditions. It was believed that aluminum could be created artificially using human hands. However, aluminum was later found in a free state in the form of thin threads about half a millimeter long. The width of the aluminum finds was only a few micrometers.

Options for using aluminum in everyday life:

• For making kitchen utensils that are light and easy to use;
• Aluminum can be used in the manufacture of household appliances as a durable and lightweight component. Household appliances should not be heavy; lightweight aluminum provides minimal weight to any kitchen equipment;
• Aluminum can be used to produce foil and various containers;
• This element is widely popular in construction activities, where such a simple material is indispensable. Aluminum is used to make metal structures, wires, and profiled sheets;
• Aluminum is often used in the production of automotive devices and the production of machine parts.

Aluminum scrap is always in price due to the existing demand from industrial organizations and individuals. Durable aluminum alloys are often used in housing and communal services.

Recycling of aluminum is useful in the automotive industry. When creating cars, melted non-ferrous scrap is usually used, significantly reducing the price of transport and significantly reducing the weight of the car itself.

In everyday life, you constantly find objects made from this element, for example, cans or foil. The discovery of aluminum made it possible to create light and strong stairs, build residential and industrial buildings, and make durable windows.

Aluminum is a ductile and lightweight white metal coated with a silver matte oxide film. In the periodic system of D.I. Mendeleev, this chemical element is designated as Al (Aluminium) and is located in the main subgroup of group III, third period, under atomic number 13. You can buy aluminum on our website.

History of discovery

In the 16th century, the famous Paracelsus took the first step towards aluminum mining. From alum, he isolated “alum earth,” which contained the oxide of a then unknown metal. In the 18th century, the German chemist Andreas Marggraff returned to this experiment. He named the aluminum oxide “alumina,” which means “astringent” in Latin. At that time, the metal was not popular because it was not found in its pure form.

For many years, English, Danish and German scientists tried to isolate pure aluminum. In 1855, at the Paris World Exhibition, the metal aluminum created a sensation. Only luxury items and jewelry were made from it, since the metal was quite expensive. At the end of the 19th century, a more modern and cheaper method of producing aluminum appeared. In 1911, the first batch of duralumin, named after the city, was produced in Duren.

In 1919, the first airplane was created from this material.

Source: https://crast.ru/instrumenty/chto-delajut-iz-aljuminija-spisok

What is made of aluminum? Areas of application of this metal

Aluminum production in Russia is in full swing. In just one year, over 4,000,000 tons of this alloy are produced here. Contrary to popular misconception, this metal is the most common on the planet, followed by iron.

But what is made of aluminum, since it is known that it is used in various industries? In particular, we can highlight mechanical engineering, aviation, the chemical industry and even civil engineering, not to mention the production of household items.

Aviation

Aluminum alloy is the main structural material used in the modern aircraft industry. Its consumption increased sharply during the development of subsonic and supersonic aircraft.

At the moment, there are alloys of various series - from 2xxx to 7xxx. Metal version 2xxx is used to work at very high temperatures, while it has a high fracture toughness coefficient.

Alloys of the 7xxx series are used to create parts that will be operated under heavy loads and low temperatures. They are highly resistant to corrosion. It is appropriate to make lightly loaded units from alloys of the 3xxx, 5xxx, 6xxx series.

These are used in oil, hydraulic and fuel systems.

In Russia, when creating components for aircraft, high-strength aluminum alloys are used, which are preliminarily subjected to heat treatment. Medium strength alloys are also actively used. The skin of the airliner, wings, fuselage, keel, etc. - all these elements are made from this material. Alloy 1420 is actively used to create a welded fuselage of a passenger airliner. Now we understand what is made of aluminum in aviation.

Space technology

This metal also has an advantage when creating space technology. Due to its light weight and high specific strength, aluminum can be used to make tanks, nose and inter-tank parts of the rocket. This metal works well at cryogenic temperatures in contact with helium, hydrogen and oxygen. It undergoes cryogenic hardening - a phenomenon in which strength indicators increase with decreasing temperature.

However, that's not all that aluminum is made of. It finds application in other industries as well.

Shipbuilding

Mainly in this industry, the material is used for the manufacture of ship hulls, as well as communications for equipment and deck superstructures. Thanks to the use of this metal, designers managed to reduce the weight of ships by 50-60%, which results in high fuel economy and increased carrying capacity, maneuverability and speed also increase.

Railway transport

Rolling stock on the railway is operated in difficult conditions and is subject to shock loads. Therefore, the requirements for materials for the manufacture of such compositions are high. It is advisable to use aluminum for the manufacture of railway trains due to its high specific strength, low inertial force, and increased corrosion resistance. In addition, products from the petrochemical and chemical industries can be transported in special aluminum containers.

Automotive industry

In cars it is appropriate to use metals of high strength and low weight. At the same time, they must be resistant to corrosion and have a decorative surface. A substance such as aluminum, which car bodies are made from, meets these criteria. Thanks to it, manufacturers are able to reduce the weight of vehicles, make them more economical and increase loading capacity, and high resistance to corrosion significantly increases the service life of the vehicle.

Beams and frames of heavy trucks can also be made from alloys.

Construction

Aluminum alloys are also actively used in civil or industrial construction. Their prospects are confirmed by world practice and technical and economic calculations. The use of aluminum makes it possible to reduce metal consumption and increase the reliability and durability of the structure. Most modern buildings with glass facades have a “skeleton” of this material.

Petrochemical industry

When developing parts used in equipment for exploration, production and refining of oil, strict material requirements are imposed. Drilling equipment becomes lighter and more efficient when using aluminum alloys, making it easier to transport and go to depth.

These alloys are ideal for making oil storage tanks. Oil and gas pipelines, drilling or pump-compressor aluminum pipes are also actively used here. In particular, alloy D16 is used for this.

Production of household items

There are countless things in everyday life that are made from this metal. In particular, aluminum stairs are popular - they are found in almost every home and garage. Kitchen utensils, TV brackets - all these elements can be made of aluminum, not to mention smaller items.

Aluminum ladders, by the way, have confidently replaced iron ones, since the latter are very difficult to move from place to place. This once again demonstrates the advantage of this metal. The list of household items made from it could take a very long time.

Source: https://FB.ru/article/357422/chto-delayut-iz-alyuminiya-sferyi-primeneniya-dannogo-metalla

The winged one is coming: why the car bodies of the future will be aluminum and what this entails

The use of aluminum in body production seems such a seductive and new technology that one forgets that it comes from the first half of the twentieth century. It was tested as a structural material for cars as soon as wood and leather began to be abandoned, and it turned out to be so compatible with wood that similar technology is still used on Morgan cars.

But most of the companies that in the thirties managed to produce many cars with extensive use of aluminum parts later abandoned the light metal. And the reason was not only the shortage of this material during the Second World War. The plans of futurist science fiction writers for the widespread use of aluminum in machine construction were not destined to come true.

At least, until now, when something began to change.

Aluminum in metal form has not been known for very long - it was introduced only at the end of the 19th century, and it immediately became highly valued. And not at all because of its rarity, it’s just that before the discovery of the electrolytic reduction method, production was incredibly expensive, aluminum was more expensive than gold and platinum.

It was not for nothing that the scales given to Mendeleev after the discovery of the periodic law contained many aluminum parts; at that time it was truly a royal gift.

From 1855 to 1890, only 200 tons of material were produced using the method of Henri Etienne Saint-Clair Deville, which consists of replacing aluminum with sodium metal.

By 1890, the price had dropped 30 times, and by the beginning of the First World War - by more than a hundred. And after the thirties, it constantly maintained approximate parity with prices for rolled steel, being 3-4 times more expensive. The shortage of certain materials periodically changed this ratio for a short period of time, but nevertheless, on average, a ton of aluminum always costs at least three times more than ordinary steel.

“Winged” aluminum is called for its combination of low weight, strength and availability. This metal is noticeably lighter than steel, accounting for approximately 2,700 kg per cubic meter versus 7,800 kg for typical steel grades.

But the strength is also lower; for common grades of steel and aluminum, the difference is about one and a half to two times, both in fluidity and in elongation.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VVAAIF-hbLo

If we talk about specific numbers, then the strength of aluminum alloy AMg3 is 120/230 MPa, low-carbon steel grade 2C10 is 175/315, but high-strength steel HC260BD is already 240/450 MPa.

As a result, aluminum structures have every chance of being noticeably lighter, at least by a third, but in some cases the superiority in the mass of parts may be greater, because aluminum parts have higher rigidity and are noticeably more technologically advanced to manufacture. For aviation, this is a real gift, because more durable titanium alloys are much more expensive, and mass production is simply not available, and magnesium alloys are highly corrosive and have an increased fire hazard.

Practice on the ground

In the public consciousness, aluminum bodies are mainly associated with Audi cars, although the first A8 in the D2 body appeared only in 1994. It was one of the first high-volume all-aluminium cars, although a fair amount of winged metal has been a signature feature of brands like Land Rover and Aston Martin for decades, not to mention the aforementioned Morgan, with its aluminum on a wooden frame. Still, advertising works wonders.

First of all, the new body manufacturing technology emphasized the low weight and corrosion resistance of aluminum bodies. Other advantages of aluminum structures were sometimes mentioned: for example, the special acoustic properties of bodies and the passive safety of structures made from die-forging and casting.

The list of cars in which aluminum parts make up at least 60% of the body weight (not to be confused with the total weight of the car) is quite long. The most famous models are Audi, A2, A8, R8 and the related R8 Lamborghini Gallardo.

Less obvious are the Ferrari F430, F360, 612, the latest generations of Jaguar XJ X350-X351, XJR, XF, XE and F-Pace. Connoisseurs of real sports cars will remember the Lotus Elise, as well as the platform Opel Speedster and Tesla Roadster.

Particularly meticulous readers will recall the Honda NSX, Spyker and even Mercedes SLS.

Pictured: Audi A2 aluminum space frame

Modern Land Rover, Range Rover, BMW of the latest series and some other premium models are often mistakenly classified as aluminum, but there the total share of aluminum parts is not so large, and the body frame is still made of steel - ordinary and high strength. There are few all-aluminum machines, and most of them are relatively low-volume designs.

But how can this be? Why, with all its advantages, is aluminum not used as widely as possible in body structure?

It would seem that you can win on mass, and the difference in the price of materials is not so critical compared to other components of the cost of an expensive car. A ton of “winged” now costs $1,600 - this is not so much, especially for a premium car. There are explanations for everything. True, to understand the issue, you will again have to delve a little deeper into the past.

How aluminum lost to plastic and steel

The eighties of the twentieth century will go down in the history of the automotive industry as the time when the main brands on the world market were formed and a balance of forces was created that has changed little to this day.

Since then, only Chinese companies have added new blood to the automotive market, but otherwise, it was then that the main trends, classes and tendencies in the automotive industry appeared.

At the same time, there was a turning point in the use of alternative materials in the design of the machine, in addition to steel and cast iron.

This is due to increased expectations regarding vehicle durability, new standards for fuel consumption and passive safety. Well, and, traditionally, the development of technologies that allowed all this. Timid attempts to use aluminum in components responsible for passive safety quickly ended with the introduction of only the simplest elements in the form of bars for crushed areas and decorative elements, which made up a few percent of the total body weight.

Source: https://www.kolesa.ru/article/krylatyj-nastupaet-pochemu-kuzova-mashin-budushhego-budut-alyuminievymi-i-chem-eto-chrevato

Cast aluminum cookware - pros and cons

Cast aluminum is a higher quality and more expensive material. The main differences are production technology and technical characteristics . The product began to be actively used for making tableware.

Characteristic

During production, dishes are cast from aluminum, like plaster figures . The metal is melted and poured into the prepared mold.

A quality product has a thickness of 5-10 mm . These utensils can be used daily. After cooking, you need to transfer the food to a storage container.

Made from cast aluminum:

1. Pots of different sizes.
2. Any types of frying pans (ladle, pancake pan, etc.).
3. Braziers.

Most frying pans have a non-stick coating. During operation, it is permissible to use any type of stove.

Care instructions:

1. Before using a new product, it is advisable to wash the surface with warm water and detergent.
2. If a dark coating has formed, the dishes must be treated with vinegar , or boil the solution in it for 10 minutes (add 0.5 tsp of citric acid to 1 liter of water).
3. It is prohibited to store various pickles : cabbage, cucumbers, mushrooms, etc.
4. When cleaning, do not use chemicals with a high alkali content.

Advantages of cast aluminum cookware

• Durability . Aluminum is one of the most durable materials. The product retains its technical characteristics after years of use. With proper care, pans and pots will last for several years. For greater reliability, the body is thicker. Thus, the dishes can withstand long-term use, overheating and falls.
• Thermal conductivity . The cookware heats up quickly during cooking. Heat is evenly distributed throughout the entire structure. The food does not burn, all sides are equally heated. The prepared dish remains hot for a long time.
• Lightness . Most products are too heavy, which is ineffective during operation. Aluminum is widely used in large industries due to the lightness of manufactured products. The dishes are easy to move around the kitchen. The shelves do not bend or break, as often happens with steel models.
• Versatility . You can cook food in aluminum cookware on any type of hob (gas, electric, glass-ceramic, etc.). If you purchase a model for use on glass ceramics, the bottom thickness should be more than 4-6 mm.
• Cooking . Models with thick walls and a bottom are most suitable for: frying meat and fish, stewing vegetables and various side dishes, baking chicken and turkey. The food is not fried, but simmered inside the cookware. This method gives a pleasant aroma and taste.
• Heating _ Maximum temperature - 400 degrees. This parameter depends on the quality of production, materials and coating. When compared with other models, cookware made of cast aluminum can withstand the highest temperature loads.
• Corrosion . Upon contact with air, the aluminum surface becomes covered with an oxide film. This provides high-quality protection against rust formation.
• Variety of models . The industry offers a wide selection of cookware. An experienced housewife knows which model she needs. You can purchase a set of dishes that includes several products at once. This will provide significant savings compared to purchasing individual models.
• Price . Cookware made from cast aluminum is much cheaper than its cast iron counterparts. For the price of 1 product you can purchase 2-3 aluminum models. At the same time, technical characteristics do not depend on cost. However, you cannot choose the cheapest products. It is important to correctly compare cost and technical characteristics.
• Cleaning . A quality product has no pores. Contaminants do not penetrate into the structure of the dishes. This makes cleaning much easier. It is enough to use household products and warm water. Models with titanium or diamond coating are easy to clean in the dishwasher. Teflon must be washed by hand.

Disadvantages of cast aluminum models

• Storing dishes . After cooking, food should not remain inside aluminum cookware for a long time. The metal reacts with organic acids. Aluminum gets into dishes and then into the human body, which leads to serious poisoning.
• Chemical reaction . Due to the nature of the material, overly spicy and sour foods should not be cooked in the cookware. The aluminum model is not suitable for making marinade and jam. During the process, small particles settle on the products.
• Constant control . Despite modern coating and processing techniques, food can still burn. It is necessary to constantly monitor the cooking process. An overcooked dish will lose its exquisite taste, and in the worst case, it will burn and spoil.
• Abrasive elements . When cleaning, it is prohibited to use products containing abrasives. They can damage the surface of the cookware. The product will become unusable.
• Damage . Mechanical impact can damage the dishes. The model cannot be restored. You'll have to buy a new product.
• Harm . Experts say that when using aluminum cookware, an excessive dose of metal enters the human body. Its high concentration can cause food poisoning and the development of various diseases. The study of this issue has not yet been completed. It is impossible to say for sure about the dangers of aluminum models. If you follow the operating instructions, the product does not pose a danger to human health.

Is it worth purchasing cast aluminum cookware?

For professional cooking, aluminum cookware is the best option. It allows you to prepare a variety of dishes without changing the set . All significant shortcomings can be eliminated if the product is used correctly. With proper care, high quality and technical characteristics will remain for several years.

To prepare pickles and jams, you will need a model made of a different material to avoid chemical reactions. It is important to remember that you cannot store food for a long time in aluminum containers.

Source: https://plusiminusi.ru/posuda-iz-litogo-alyuminiya-plyusy-i-minusy/

Areas of application of aluminum and its compounds: in construction, industry, everyday life

Aluminum, as the lightest and most ductile metal, has a wide range of uses. It is resistant to corrosion, has high electrical conductivity, and can easily withstand sudden temperature fluctuations. Another feature is that upon contact with air, a special film appears on its surface, which protects the metal.

All these, as well as other features, contributed to its active use. So, let's find out in more detail what the uses of aluminum are.

Consumer goods

Aluminum is used in large quantities in the manufacture of various components, parts and housings of many consumer products that surround our lives - household products, for example, refrigerators, freezers, dishwashers. Refrigerators and freezers contain refrigeration units, which, as mentioned above, also contain significant amounts of aluminum. Important properties of aluminum for consumer products are:

• aesthetic properties;
• corrosion resistance;
• strength;
• high thermal conductivity (for refrigeration units).

Automobile transport

One of the main requirements for materials used in automobile transport is low weight and fairly high strength indicators. The corrosion resistance and good decorative surface of the material are also taken into account.

Figure 3 – Car

The high specific strength of aluminum alloys increases the carrying capacity and reduces the operating costs of mobile vehicles. The high corrosion resistance of the material extends service life and expands the range of transported goods, including liquids and gases with high aggressive concentrations.

In the manufacture of frame elements and body trim for semi-trailers, vans, refrigerators, livestock carriers, etc. Promising materials are aluminum alloys AD31, 1915 (extruded profiles) and alloys AMg2, AMg5 (sheet).

Aluminum alloys AMts, AMgZ and 1915 are used in the manufacture of individual components of a passenger car (attachment parts, bumpers, cooling radiators, heaters).

In the US automotive industry, aluminum weldable alloys of the 3xxx, 5xxx and 6xxx series are widely used.

Beams and frames of heavy trucks are made from pressed semi-finished alloys 2014 and 6061. Panels and individual elements made from 5052 alloy are used to manufacture the cabin. As a lining material of the truck body, a sheet of alloy 5052, 6061, 2024, 3003 and 5154 is used. The body racks are made of pressed semi -finished alloys of alloys 6061 and 6063. Magnal alloys of the 5XXX series (5052, 5086, 5154 and 5454) are the main material in the manufacture of cargo stations .

Aluminum cookware: rules of use

One type of metal utensils is utensils made of aluminum. For many years, housewives have been using these kitchen items with pleasure. Today, such dishes have changed their appearance and properties.

These are no longer those gray pots and pans familiar to us from Soviet times. Manufacturers of aluminum cookware are increasing their range, as the demand for products is not decreasing, but, on the contrary, increasing every year.

The variety of products needed in the kitchen made of aluminum is great. What the manufacturer does not produce:

• pots, pans;
• bowls, mugs;
• boilers, cauldrons;
• spoons forks;
• colanders, duck pots and much more.

It’s no wonder why this dishware is so popular among housewives.

It is light, the dish cooks faster, since the material conducts heat well. Food doesn't burn.

The manufacturer is increasing the production of aluminum cookware and expanding its range, since the material is not too expensive, is resistant to corrosion, lightweight, and has a low melting point. These properties of the metal ensure the production of inexpensive products.

Production of aluminum cookware

Depending on the manufacturing technology, dishes can be:

Production of kitchen items from extruded aluminum.

1. It all starts with a round blank, which will become the bottom of the future product. It is marked with the volume and name of the manufacturer.
2. The workpiece is placed in the lathe opposite the blank. There is a plastic roller on it that comes into operation. The blank spins at a speed of 1000 rpm. The operation of the roller is controlled by a computer. All this is reminiscent of the work of a potter on a pottery machine. Only rotation occurs not around a vertical, but a horizontal axis.
3. The machine cuts off excess aluminum and tucks in the edges.
4. After the final adjustment to the desired size, another cutter cuts off the sharp edges from the rim of the future product.

Stamped ware

Stamped kitchen items are made from whole sheets of pure aluminum through the mechanical action of presses and hammers. Products are formed into simple shapes. Under the influence of extrusion and pulling, the structure of the metal is disrupted. Such dishes are light, with thin walls and bottom. Therefore, it is susceptible to deformation from high temperatures and minor impacts. The cost of such products is low.

The non-stick coating is rolled onto the aluminum blank, not onto the finished product. Therefore, during the molding process, the integrity of the structure of not only the metal, but also the non-stick coating is violated. It turns out less durable.

The production of cast dishes is more expensive. The metal does not experience any mechanical stress, as a result of which its structure is integral.

1. Aluminum is poured into a mold, where it hardens in 3 minutes.
2. The frozen product falls out of the mold. A hydraulic press cuts off the excess.
3. After trimming off the excess, the inner walls are coated with white aluminum oxide using 6 nozzles. It improves adhesion to the non-stick coating that will be applied later.

Cast ware

It is made of high quality aluminum, which is poured into casting molds. When solidified, durable products with thick walls and bottom are obtained. The metal does not experience any mechanical stress, so the integrity of the structure is not compromised. Products made from it are more durable and strong. Not subject to deformation from high temperatures and mechanical stress.

The non-stick coating is also more durable, as it is applied to the finished product by spraying.

Such dishes keep heat for a long time, food simmers in it, and the taste of the dishes turns out different, more rich and pronounced.

Today, some manufacturers make aluminum cookware from pure metal, while others add various alloys; apply internal and external coatings.

Types of aluminum cookware

Speaking about the variety of aluminum cookware, about what types exist, let’s make a simple table.

Difference parameters	Kinds
According to the manufacturing method.	Cast and stamped
By "purity"	Made from pure aluminum and with the addition of alloys, for example, duralumin.
According to the form.	Pots, pans, baking sheets, bowls, etc.
With coatings.	External and internal.

With color coating

Many manufacturers have started producing aluminum kitchen products with color coating. They look beautiful and attractive. Methods for finishing aluminum pots and pans: anodizing (creating a protective film), applying durable enamel, varnish or painting with organic paint (acrylic or polyamide). The most common method is the application of porcelain slurry. This finishing on the outside gives the dishes an elegant look and is a protective outer layer.

1. First, the product is cleaned in preparation for applying a protective layer.
2. The colored coating is applied by sprayers that coat the dishes with a porcelain slurry. Porcelain is a clay-like material. Hardens when fired.
3. The kiln fires porcelain at temperatures above 500 degrees.
4. The intense heat transforms the porcelain into a durable, beautiful outer coating that won't burn or scratch.
5. After cooling, a non-stick layer is applied to the inner walls.

Manufacturers of aluminum cookware will improve their products.

With thickened bottom

To increase their service life, they make dishes with thicker walls and double or triple bottoms. Metal refractory disks are built into it. Such kitchen items become heavier, but they are preferred when purchasing. Thickened bottom:

• prevents overheating;
• distributes heat evenly;
• prevents food from sticking to the walls and bottom.

Products with thick walls and bottom are more stable. They are less susceptible to mechanical stress.

Frying pans with grooved bottom

Another new product from aluminum cookware manufacturers is frying pans with uneven, grooved bottoms. They are called grill pans. The main difference from the usual frying pan is that the bottom is not smooth, but striped: longitudinal or transverse - corrugated. Every housewife who loves to pamper her loved ones with something delicious needs such an item.

A dish cooked on a grill pan has a special taste. Reminds me of the smoke of a fire, of a picnic at the dacha. This kitchen gadget allows you to cook steaks, meat, fish, and vegetables the same way as on a grill or barbecue. The products do not lose their beneficial qualities. They come into contact with the surface of the pan only on the raised ribs. Excess fat flows into the spaces between them.

Due to this, the food will not burn and will cook quickly enough.

With stone or marble coating

Today, one of the best coatings is stone. It is also called marble. This is a special development of engineers from Germany. Frying pans, saucepans, pots - this is not the entire list of stone-coated items. It consists of several layers interspersed with stone chips and a high mineral content. Made from natural stone mined in the Alpine mountains.

1. The coating itself is considered safe, as it does not contain harmful substances, but consists of natural minerals.
2. Manufacturers claim that their dishes are made for people who decide to lose weight. Or those who are forced to eat on a diet.
3. According to experts, the cookware uses the reserves of the food itself, without requiring oil or fat. Due to this, budget savings occur.
4. The guaranteed service life of such utensils is at least 15 years.
5. The coating does not require additional careful care.
6. Food does not burn. You can use metal accessories without fear of scratching the surface.

Source: https://domopravitelnitsa.com/posuda/alyuminievaya-posuda.html

Aluminum forging technology

Forged aluminum wheels are a single piece that is made from a single piece of metal by hot forging, followed by hot or cold rotational deformation processing (rolling) and mandatory machining.

Forging technology allows for the implementation of a wide variety of designs, almost the same as in cast wheels. Forging the entire wheel from one piece gives it higher strength properties and lower weight compared to composite designs, as well as cast aluminum wheels and, of course, steel wheels.

Figure 1 – Forged aluminum wheels manufactured by Alcoa for “tuning” cars   

Advantages of forged aluminum wheels

• Forged wheels are typically about 25% lighter than alloy wheels.
• Although casting is a cheaper process, cast wheels exhibit significantly lower mechanical properties than forged wheels.
• Composite forged wheels consist of two or more parts that are connected to each other in various ways. Some composite discs use bolted connections, others use welding or even adhesive materials. In either case, the joints in the composite wheel rims act as stress concentrators and a point of initiation for fatigue cracks. Bolted connections may vibrate or become loose.
• Forged aluminum wheels are superior to cast aluminum wheels, especially in terms of impact and fatigue resistance. Forged wheels generally do not fail during impact tests, whereas impact tests are a problem for alloy wheels.
• The increased fatigue strength of forged wheels gives designers the opportunity to further reduce their weight, while at the same time remaining comparable in fatigue strength to cast wheels.

Figure 2 - Forged wheels: variety of design options

Advantages of Aluminum Forging

1) The forging process makes it possible to fully exploit the properties of the material in relation to:

• mechanical properties;
• viscosity;
• fatigue strength.

2) Forging technology allows us to achieve very tight tolerances on wheel sizes. There is no porosity or cavities in forged wheel rims, which means they are highly reliable.

3) The surface of forged wheels provides greater possibilities for its final finishing.

Aluminum alloys for forging discs

The standard alloys that are used for forged aluminum wheel rims are thermally hardenable alloys of the AlMgSi alloying system (6xxx series):

• 6082 in Europe and
• 6061 in North America.

The full designation of aluminum alloy 6082 according to the European Standard EN 573-1 is as follows: EN AW-6082 or EN AW-AlSi1MgMn, and alloy 6061 is EN AW-6061 or EN AW-AlSiMgCu. Alloy 6082 is an analogue of the domestic aluminum alloy AD35, and alloy 6061 is an analogue of the AD33 alloy according to GOST 4784-97.

Forged aluminum microstructure

Forging stretches the microstructure of the metal along the direction of metal flow (Figure 3) and thereby allows the full potential of the alloy to be used in terms of strength and toughness.

Figure 3 – Elongated grain structure of aluminum in a forged wheel (source: Alcoa)

Although both forged and cast wheels must meet the same technical requirements for strength and reliability, forged wheels are more resistant to overload and abuse.

Compared to cast wheels, forged wheels exhibit higher fatigue resistance due to the absence of porosity and the presence of a fine, homogeneous microstructure (Figure 4). In addition, the dense deformed microstructure will make it possible to achieve a literally mirror-like surface of the disks after mechanical processing with a diamond tool.

Figure 4 – Fatigue curves for wrought alloy AlSi1MgMn-T6 (6082-T6) and cast aluminum alloy AlSi7Mg0.3-T6 (source – Otto Fuchs)

Manufacturing of forged aluminum wheels

Traditional manufacturing technology for forged aluminum wheel rims includes several forging operations, rough machining, heat treatment, finishing machining and various intermediate and finishing processes depending on the design and design.

The Otto Fuchs process chain for the production of lightweight forged wheel rims, first used back in 1995, includes the steps shown in Figure 5.   

Figure 5 – Technological chain for the production of lightweight forged wheel rims at Otto Fuchs (source – Otto Fuchs)

Source: https://varimtutru.com/kovka-alyuminiya-tehnologiya/

Where is aluminum used?

Aluminum is a lightweight metal that is widely used in various industries. It has good thermal conductivity and also conducts electricity. Oxide films are formed on its surface, which have high strength and durability, so the material is impervious to corrosion and does not rust, even with prolonged contact with moisture.

The material is widely used in:

• aviation and space industry;
• automotive industry;
• sea ​​and river transport;
• construction;
• production of various household items.

Manufacturers choose this material for the optimal combination of safety, reliability and cost.

Applications in space and aviation

Those elements that will be subject to high loads are made from aluminum. So in airplanes it is used in the skin, strength and reinforcement sets. Alloys of this material were used in spacecraft, including the Lunokhod.

Use in road and river transport

The fastest ships, called "Meteor" and "Rocket", are made of aluminum. The hull of such hydrofoil vessels can withstand high loads and does not lose its properties due to constant contact with water, including salt water.

In the automotive industry, this material is used no less widely. It is used to make durable parts and various electromechanical devices installed in transport. This aluminum is also now widely used in the construction of super express trains and other trains.

Application in construction

Aluminum circle is used in modern construction. From it are created:

• beams with low weight and high strength;
• columns;
• floors;
• various decorative railings and fences;
• parts of ventilation systems.

As part of experiments with building materials, they are trying to put aluminum on the roof. Such a roof can withstand not only ordinary water, but also mixtures of sulfur, nitrogen compounds and other substances that destroy ordinary roofing iron.