The Material Aluminum Introduction

Aluminum is a chemical element in the boron group with symbol Al and atomic number 13. It is a silverish white metal that has a strong resistance to corrosion, soft, nonmagnetic, ductile metal.

It is a relatively light metal compared to metals such as steel, nickel, copper with a specific gravity of 2.7.. It also has good electrical and thermal conductivities and is highly reflective to heat and light.

Aluminum is a very versatile metal and can be cast in any form known. It can be rolled, stamped, drawn, spun, roll-formed, hammered and forged.

The metal can be extruded into a variety of shapes, and can be turned, milled, and bored in the machining process.

Aluminum can riveted, welded, brazed, or resin bonded. For most applications, aluminum needs no protective coating as it can be finished to look good, however it is often anodized to improve color and strength.