Application and use of aluminium

Thanks to its special properties, aluminium finds many applications and its use follows a constant trend in growth. Above all aluminium finds...

Thanks to its special properties, aluminium finds many applications and its use follows a constant trend in growth.

Above all aluminium finds applications in the following fields:

Aluminium in Building
Aluminium is used in windows and doors: besides windows and doors, also curtain walls, frames, shutters, false windows, insect screens, verandas, handrails, fencing, gates, eaves, sunbreakers, sun blinds, venetian blinds, prefabricated buildings, radiators and heat exchangers, metal sheeting for false ceilings, solar panels, roofing, etc.

Aluminium in Transport (railways, aeronautics and cars)
Thanks to its high strength/weight ratio, aluminium is used in the manufacture of engines, pumps, pistons, wheels, connecting rods, hubs, valves, frames and trimmings, bumpers, truck sides, fans, parts for bodywork, radiators and heat exchangers. The transport sector is one of the major aluminium users, equal to about one third of all the metal consumed in Europe. One of the main reasons is that it costs to move a weight.

Aluminium in Production engineering
Aluminium is used in the manufacture of machines and equipment. Printing machines, textile machines, woodworking machines, office equipment and computers, scientific instruments. (See also aluminium in production engineering)

Aluminium in Electronics
Aluminium is the chief material competing with copper, thanks to its very good electrical conductivity. The most widely recognized application is that of overhead electricity distribution lines, almost all based on aluminium cables.
Aluminium in the Household
Aluminium is used in many household products: cooking utensils, electrical household appliances, ladders, shower screens, furnishing, lighting fixtures, furniture components, equipment for sports and leisure.

There are really only a few application sectors where aluminium is not used. Use is expected to grow as its properties are especially appreciated by designers, architects and engineers as well as by the manufacturers and end users of the product.

Moreover the environmental impact of aluminium is very favourable. None of its production processes involves significant risks for health or the environment. In fact the aluminium industry has been much concerned over the years to reduce pollution and the effects on the environment.