What type of aluminium is used in construction?

Aluminium is a widely used material in the construction industry due to its lightweight, durability, and versatility. It is commonly used in various applications such as windows, doors, roofing, cladding, and structural components. Here’s an overview of the types of aluminium used in construction:

Aluminium alloys

Aluminium alloys are the primary form of aluminium used in construction. Pure aluminium is relatively soft and weak, so it is alloyed with other metals to enhance its properties. The most common alloying elements include copper, zinc, magnesium, silicon, and manganese.

Aluminium alloys are categorized into two main groups:

Wrought alloys

Wrought alloys are formed by mechanical processes such as rolling, extruding, and forging. They are typically used for applications that require shaping and forming. Common wrought alloys used in construction include:

6000 Series: This series includes alloys such as 6061 and 6063, which are commonly used for extrusions like window frames, doors, and structural components. They offer good corrosion resistance and weldability.

7000 Series: These alloys, such as 7075, are used for applications requiring high strength, such as aerospace and military structures. However, they are less common in general construction due to their higher cost and lower corrosion resistance.

Cast alloys

Cast alloys are formed by pouring molten aluminium into molds. They are used for applications where complex shapes are needed, such as architectural elements and decorative features. Common cast alloys used in construction include:

400 Series: This series includes alloys such as 413. These alloys are often used for structural components and architectural applications due to their good strength and corrosion resistance.

Aluminium tempering

Aluminium tempering refers to the heat treatment process used to enhance the mechanical properties of aluminium alloys. The tempering process involves heating the alloy to a specific temperature and then cooling it rapidly to achieve desired characteristics such as increased strength, improved ductility, and enhanced corrosion resistance.

There are several tempering designations used to indicate the specific treatment process applied to the aluminium alloy. Some common tempering designations include:

T4: Solution heat-treated and naturally aged. This temper is commonly used for extruded products and provides good corrosion resistance and moderate strength.

T6: Solution heat-treated and artificially aged. This temper is widely used for extruded, rolled, and cast products. It offers high strength and good corrosion resistance.

These are just a few examples of the tempering designations used for aluminium alloys in construction. The choice of temper depends on the specific application and the desired properties of the finished product.

Aluminium coatings

Aluminium is often coated with protective finishes to enhance its durability and aesthetic appeal. Common types of coatings used on aluminium in construction include:

Anodizing: Anodizing is an electrochemical process that forms a protective oxide layer on the surface of aluminium. This layer enhances corrosion resistance and can be dyed in various colors for decorative purposes.

Powder coating: Powder coating involves applying a dry powder to the surface of aluminium and then curing it under heat to form a durable, protective finish. Powder coatings come in a wide range of colors and finishes.

Paint: Aluminium can also be painted with conventional liquid paint systems to provide additional protection and aesthetic options.

These coatings help prolong the lifespan of aluminium components and maintain their appearance over time.

Aluminium extrusion

Aluminium extrusion is a manufacturing process used to create complex shapes and profiles from aluminium alloy. In this process, a heated aluminium billet is forced through a die to produce long sections with a uniform cross-sectional shape.

Extruded aluminium is widely used in construction for applications such as window frames, doors, curtain walls, and structural components. The advantages of aluminium extrusion in construction include:

Design flexibility: Aluminium can be extruded into a wide range of shapes and sizes, allowing for custom designs and architectural creativity.

Lightweight and strong: Aluminium is lightweight yet strong, making it ideal for structural applications where weight reduction is essential.

Corrosion resistance: Aluminium naturally forms a protective oxide layer, providing excellent corrosion resistance, especially when anodized or coated.

Energy efficiency: Aluminium extrusions can be thermally broken to improve energy efficiency by reducing heat transfer through the frame.

Aluminium sheet and plate

Aluminium sheets and plates are flat pieces of aluminium used in construction for various applications. They are available in different thicknesses and sizes to suit specific needs.

Common uses of aluminium sheets and plates in construction include:

Roofing and siding: Aluminium sheets are used for roofing and siding materials due to their lightweight, corrosion resistance, and durability.

Interior and exterior cladding: Aluminium plates can be used as cladding material for building facades, providing a modern and sleek appearance.

Structural components: Aluminium plates are used for structural applications such as beams, columns, and framing members in high-rise buildings and bridges.

Aluminium sheets and plates are valued for their strength, versatility, and resistance to environmental elements.

Aluminium curtain walls

Aluminium curtain walls are non-structural cladding systems used to enclose the exterior of a building. They consist of lightweight aluminium frames that support glass panels or other infill materials.

Aluminium curtain walls are popular in modern architecture due to their aesthetic appeal, energy efficiency, and ability to withstand environmental conditions. They provide excellent thermal insulation, sound insulation, and resistance to air and water infiltration.

Aluminium curtain walls can be customized to meet specific design requirements and can be integrated with other building systems such as sunshades, operable windows, and shading devices.

Overall, aluminium is a versatile and widely used material in construction due to its lightweight, durability, corrosion resistance, and aesthetic appeal. Its various forms, including alloys, coatings, extrusions, sheets, and plates, offer a range of options for different architectural and structural applications.