Difference of aluminum and aluminum alloys are reflected in areas such as chemical composition, physical properties, and applications.
Difference between aluminium and aluminium alloys
Aluminum is a lightweight, corrosion-resistant pure metal suitable for general use, while aluminum alloys are suitable for more demanding application scenarios by adding other metal elements that significantly increase strength, hardness and corrosion resistance.
The choice of aluminum or aluminum alloy depends on specific application requirements and cost-benefit considerations.
Chemical composition of difference of aluminum and aluminum alloys
Aluminum:
- Aluminum is a pure metal with the chemical symbol Al and an atomic number of 13.
- It is a silvery-white, light metal with a high degree of purity (usually 99% or higher), and exists primarily as a monomer.
Aluminum Alloys:
- Aluminum alloys are made up of aluminum and other metallic elements such as copper, magnesium, silicon, and zinc.
- These are made by adding different elements to improve the physical and mechanical properties of aluminum, such as strength, hardness, corrosion resistance and electrical conductivity.
Physical Properties of difference of aluminum and aluminum alloys
Aluminum:
- Low density (about 2.7 g/cm³) and much lighter than steel, resulting in a high strength-to-weight ratio.
- Good electrical and thermal conductivity, good conductor of heat and electricity.
Resistant to atmospheric corrosion, but pure aluminum has a low modulus of elasticity and is less resistant to earthquakes.
Aluminum Alloys:
- These are usually less dense than pure aluminum, but their strength and hardness can be significantly increased by alloying. For example, the yield strength of 6061-T6 aluminum alloy is much higher than that of pure aluminum.
- They typically have a higher modulus of elasticity, making them suitable for applications requiring high strength and rigidity.
- Corrosion resistance is usually superior to pure aluminum, especially in marine environments.
Processing of difference of aluminum and aluminum alloys
Aluminum:
- Due to its low melting point (approximately 660°C), aluminum is easy to process into a variety of shapes and sizes, such as plates, tubes and profiles.
Aluminum Alloys:
- They are divided into heat treatable and non-heat treatable alloys. Heat-treatable alloys (such as 6061-T6) are further strengthened by solution treatment and aging, while non-heat-treatable alloys are mainly used for applications requiring good ductility.
Areas of application
Aluminum:
- Due to its light weight and corrosion resistance, aluminum is widely used in packaging (e.g., cans), construction (e.g., window frames), and transportation (e.g., aircraft parts).
Aluminum Alloys:
- These are widely used in aerospace, automotive manufacturing, ship construction, and industrial structural components due to their high strength and corrosion resistance.
- For example, 6061-T6 aluminum alloy is commonly used in aircraft fuselages and engine parts.
Cost and Economy
Aluminum:
- Pure aluminum is relatively low cost, but its limited strength and durability make it unsuitable for applications with high loads or extreme environments.
Aluminum Alloys:
- This type alloys cost more than pure, but their performance enhancements make them more competitive in many high-performance areas.
- For example, these alloys in aerospace applications can significantly reduce structural weight and improve fuel efficiency.
Haichen aluminium alloys die casting machine supplier
Haichen is a well-known manufacturer and supplier of aluminum die casting machines and related equipment. They specialize in providing high-quality, efficient, and reliable cold chamber die casting solutions for industries that require precision aluminum alloy components.
Our machines produce a range of die casting machines designed for this alloy and other non-ferrous alloys (e.g., magnesium, zinc). Besides cold chamber machine, we also supply hot chamber die casting machines. And our machines are widely used in industries such as automotive, electronics, aerospace, and consumer goods.
If there is any interest in our machines, welcome to consult us.
