Aluminum is one of the most popular material choices amongst manufacturing professionals today. It is an important and highly functional non-ferrous metal. In its purest form, aluminum was first extracted in the 1820s. However, it is believed to have existed for over centuries.
Almost everyone around the globe has used a product made from aluminum. In fact, it is the second most used metal worldwide. Below, this aluminum slitting company in Grand Rapids, Michigan is going to review the top industries that use aluminum for its incredible characteristics and unique properties.
Electrical
Since aluminum is a good conductor of electricity, it is often used for electrical cables and wires. Copper is another excellent option, but aluminum may be preferred. It is half the cost of copper and much more lightweight, making it an attractive product from a financial standpoint.
Transportation
Since aluminum is known for its high strength-to-weight ratio and lightness, it is increasingly being used in different modes of transportation.
Aluminum helps trains reduce their carbon emissions. In the automotive industry, the use of aluminum directly translates to better fuel efficiency. Even the aviation industry builds aircraft components and instruments with high-quality aluminum coils, sheets, and rolls.
Construction
Structures made with aluminum are practically maintenance-free and corrosion-resistant. Since the metal is quick, easy, and convenient to work with, construction professionals use it to construct high-rise buildings and bridges. Its fluidity, budget-friendliness, and versatility make the metal apt for a range of construction applications.
Consumer Goods
Aluminum makes the best household appliances and utensils. Aluminum also performs well in the packaging of medicines, food, and beverages, for it doesn’t affect these items.
The metal acts as a barrier to bacteria, air, light, and moisture. It is non-toxic, repels water, and can be heated or refrigerated. It is recyclable and can be designed in custom shapes and sizes. In addition, aluminum is also used for consumer electronics like smartphones, televisions, and computers.
Advantages of Using Aluminum
There are many reasons why you would want to choose aluminum in Grand Rapids, Michigan over other products for your manufacturing processes. It is a metal abundantly and naturally found in the earth’s crust. It is soft, durable, and quite elastic. Additional advantages include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Aluminum weighs much less than metals like copper, steel, and iron, making it easy to transport.
- Aluminum is remarkably non-corrosive and protects the final part, product, or component from rust.
- Since aluminum is non-magnetic, it is usable in high-voltage applications.
- It performs well in explosive environments and does not emit sparks.
- Aluminum is an excellent conductor of heat and cold and does better than most metals in these conditions.
- Aluminum also conducts electricity and makes an economical choice for projects of all sizes.
- It reflects ultraviolet light, is decorative, and can be used to make explosive mixes.
- Although aluminum can be more brittle than stainless steel, heat treatments and extrusions make it durable.
The physical and mechanical properties of aluminum make it a tough competitor to stainless steel and many other base metals available in the market.
Looking for an Aluminum Slitting Company in Grand Rapids, Michigan?
If you think aluminum is right for your manufacturing needs in Grand rapids, Michigan, contact the experts at National Kwikmetal Service (NKS) to discuss your project with our knowledgeable team. Our metal experts can help you create solutions that benefit your manufacturing processes.
Contact us at 1800-722-5029 to get in touch with our metallurgists. We are the most trusted aluminum slitting company in Grand Rapids, Michigan, providing high-quality sheets, coils, rolls, and more. Contact us today to learn about the NKS difference.