Airplane Aluminum

Aluminum is the perfect material to use when manufacturing airplanes, thanks in part to its unique properties and characteristics. It’s strong, lightweight, predictable and inexpensive. Steel and iron are both stronger than aluminum, but strength alone isn't enough to justify its use in aerospace manufacturing. The problem with steel and iron is its weight. Both of these metals are much heavier than aluminum - and too much weigh restricts an airplane's ability to takeoff and fly.

There are several different types of airplane aluminum used in aerospace engineering, but some are more suited to the aerospace industry than others, some of which include the following:

Aluminum 2024

Aluminum 3003

Aluminum 5052

Aluminum 6061

Aluminum 7075

2024 - The primary alloying element in 2024 airfact aluminum is copper. 2024 aluminum can be used when high strength to weight ratios are required. Like the 6061 alloy, 2024 is used in wing and fuselage structures because of the tension they receive during operation.

5052 - The highest strength alloy of the non-heat-treatable grades, 5052 aluminum provides ideal expediency and can be drawn or formed into varying shapes. Additionally, it offers excellent resistance to saltwater corrosion in marine environments.

6061 - This alloy has good mechanical properties and is easily welded. It is a common alloy for general use and, in aerospace applications, is used for wing and fuselage structures. It is especially common in homebuilt aircraft.

6063 - Often referred to as the “architectural alloy”, 6063 aluminum is known for providing exemplary finish characteristics, and is often the most useful alloy for anodizing applications.

7050 - A top choice for aerospace applications, alloy 7050 displays much greater corrosion resistance and durability than the 7075. Because it preserves its strength properties in wider sections, 7050 aluminum is able to maintain resistance to fractures and corrosion.

7068 - 7068 aluminum alloy is the strongest type of alloy currently available in the commercial market. Lightweight with excellent corrosion resistance, the 7068 is one of the toughest alloys presently accessible.

7075 - Zinc is the main alloying element in 7075 aluminum. Its strength is similar to that of many types of steel, and it has good machinability and fatigue strength properties. It was originally used in the Mitsubishi A6M Zero fighter planes during World War II, and is still used in aviation today.

Why Choose Plane Aluminium Alloy in Aerospace Industry:

Light Weight — The use of aluminum alloys reduces the weight of an aircraft significantly. With a weight roughly a third lighter than steel, it allows an aircraft to either carry more weight, or become more fuel efficient.

High Strength — Aluminum's strength allows it to replace heavier metals without the loss of strength associated with other metals, while benefitting from its lighter weight. Additionally, load-bearing structures can take advantage of aluminum's strength to make aircraft production more reliable and cost-efficient.

Corrosion Resistance — For an aircraft and its passengers, corrosion can be extremely dangerous. Aluminum is highly resistant to corrosion and chemical environments, making it especially valuable for aircrafts operating in highly corrosive maritime environments.