The Benefits of Aluminum
Aluminum is a light metal, about the third of the density of steel, copper, and brass.
Aluminum has good corrosion resistance to common atmospheric and marine atmospheres. Its corrosion resistance and scratch resistance can be enhanced by anodizing.
Aluminum has high reflectivity and can be used for decorative applications.
Some aluminum alloys can match or even exceed the strength of common construction steel.
Aluminum retains its toughness at very low temperatures, without becoming brittle like carbon steels.
Aluminum is a good conductor of heat and electricity. When measured by equal cross-sectional area, electrical grade aluminum has conductivity which is approximately 62% of electrical grade annealed copper. However, when compared using equal weight, the conductivity of aluminum is 204% of copper.
Aluminum is readily worked and formed using a wide variety of forming processes including deep- drawing and roll forming.
Aluminum is non-toxic and is commonly used in contact with foodstuffs.
Aluminum can be readily recycled.