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What is Aluminum?
Aluminum is a metallic element with the atomic number of 13 on the periodic table. In room temperature it's in the solid state. As a solid in room temperature, it is a silvery-white reflective metal. Aluminum is the most abundant element on Earth. It is light weight, non-magnetic, and has a melting point of 660 degrees Celsius [1].
Advantages
- Light weight - Compared to copper and iron, aluminum about a third as dense [1]
- Corrosion-resistant - Even though aluminum is chemically active, when exposed to oxygen a hard, tough oxide film forms [1]
- Conductive - Aluminum is an excellent conductor of heat and electricity [1]
- Thermal impacts - Since Aluminum has an FCC structure, a decrease in temperature does not cause it to be more brittle [2]
Disadvantages
- Cost - Compared to steel aluminum is much more expensive [3]
- Durability - Steel is more durable, but depending on the application, Aluminum can be a good option [4]
- Welding - While it is possible to weld aluminum, it requires more experience [4]
Applications
Aluminum piping is a very versatile and can be found in various applications. Information from below is from [5]. The applications of aluminum tubing/piping include:
Heat Exchange
Since Aluminum is a great heat conductor, aluminum tubing can be found in applications that involve the collection and transfer of heat. For example aluminum tubing can be found in engines, radiators found on some cars, refrigerators, air conditioning heating systems, and more.
Transportation
Aluminum piping is also used in the transportation industry. Aluminum piping can be found in aluminum frames of cars, aircrafts, bicycles, and more. Aluminum is used in the transportation industry due to it’s lightweight and durability.
Structural
Aluminum piping can also be found in structures such as fencing, handrails, framing and supports, and other outdoor structures.
Aluminum Piping Sizing
| Chart of Aluminum Pipe Sizes [6] |
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| Continuation of Chart of Aluminum Pipe Sizes [6] |
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Suppliers
Suppliers of aluminum pipes include:
Contributors:
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