Aluminum Information

Aluminum aka aluminium is a silvery-white, soft, nonmagnetic, ductile metal. Aluminum is the third most abundant element in the Earth's crust and the most abundant of all metals. Aluminum is very reactive so is almost never found in its elemental state, it is usually found in combination with other elements. Bauxite is an example of an aluminum bearing ore.

Aluminum is a light metal and is very resistant to corrosion. Aluminum is a very useful and has many uses but is rarely used as straight aluminum. It is almost always used in combination (alloyed) with other metals to adjust its chemical and physical properties to suit the need.

The uses of aluminum are too numerous to list, but here are a few. Used in automobiles, aircraft etc as tubes or castings. Cans, foil, window frames, siding sometimes wire. Street light poles, cooking utensils baseball bats. Cases for electronics. Electrical crimps, coins, musical instruments... and the list goes on.

Aluminum is a soft, durable, lightweight, ductile, and malleable silver gray metal. It is easily machined, cast, drawn and extruded. It is nonmagnetic.

Aluminum is a good thermal and electrical conductor. It is not as good of a electrical conductor as copper but can be used as a substitute if needed.

Aluminum has a melting point of 1220F (660C)! This low melting point compared to other metals makes it a favorite among metal hobbyist.