Everything you need to know about aluminium

With a name like Aluminium Bending Specialists, here at ABS, it’s fair to say we’re extremely knowledgeable about all things aluminium. Quite simply, it’s a material that offers flexibility more than practically any other metal choice, all without losing the properties that make it ideal for so many uses within various different industries including solar and automotive.

But as they say, the proof is in the pudding. While we and other industry experts alike realise just how fantastic aluminium is, the studies and research that have put aluminium to the test, do an even greater job at shining a light on its popularity. 

Here are just some of the top facts about aluminium to tell you more. 

Fact: The transportation industry uses more aluminium than any other industry. 

Take a look around your home or walk around any city centre, and you’ll likely notice plenty of objects that are made from aluminium. This includes everything from our phones and laptops to buildings, cars and even aeroplanes up in the sky. 

The flexibility of aluminium is due to the many different grades of aluminium available. So whether a 1000 grade series aluminium is used for welding or a 6000-grade series is used for creating aluminium windows as we do here at ABS, it’s possible to experience the many benefits of the material, regardless of the purpose it is being used for. 

Fact: Aluminium weighs two thirds less than steel. 

Within industries such as construction, architecture, automotive and packaging, there is a need for the material to withstand force and pressure. However, a heavy weighted material can cause issues that may threaten the structural integrity of a building, or incur higher shipping costs for manufacturers. 

Aluminium offers the perfect hybrid as it possesses superior strength without the weight of materials such as steel or wood. As a result, every other aspect of the manufacturing and installation process becomes more efficient and cost-effective. 

Fact: When used in shipbuilding, tests found aluminium only corrodes at a rate of 1mm per year, compared to 120mm a year when steel is used instead. 

A huge headache with metals is the fact they don’t always do so well when exposed to moisture. This means that they aren’t always suitable for certain usages, especially if they will come into contact with the elements. In some cases, it’s possible to paint or treat a metal though if the metal is not aluminium, it may throw up other issues such as excess weight, or the material could be too weak for its intended usage. 

Aluminium doesn’t have such problems, as studies have found the corrosion rate is extremely minuscule compared with steel, even when used for shipbuilding where inevitably, the material will be submerged in the sea for long periods of time. 

In addition, aluminium can also be powder coated which adds a protective layer to the material. As well as helping to extend the longevity of the aluminium, powder coating also allows for colour customisation of the material too. A great example is coloured window frames which add both personality and style to a building. 

Fact: The Earth’s crust is made up of 8.2% aluminium. 

Whether you are a developer, architect or property owner, anyone involved in the building process has a responsibility to make more sustainable choices. 

When it comes to aluminium, not only is it the world’s most abundant metal, but it is also recyclable as well as offers excellent longevity. All of this means not only do we need to take less of the Earth’s natural resources, but even when we do so, the material can go on to have an infinite lifespan. 

Fact: Installing new windows can add as much as 10% to the value of your home, with aluminium windows seen as a more luxurious material versus uPVC double glazing.  

Let’s not forget that aluminium is often used for exterior projects, especially where construction is concerned. In particular, aluminium windows can be created to practically any size or shape, including creating a stunning focal point that other window types wouldn’t be able to achieve. 

Aluminium itself is seen as more high-end, especially versus uPVC or even wooden windows. So if buildings or homeowners are looking to add value to their property, aluminium makes a winning choice every time. Plus, unlike uPVC, aluminium offers a much longer lifespan meaning the windows or doors will not need to be replaced as quickly.

We saved the best one till last! ABS produces a wide range of aluminium pieces for our clients across the UK and Ireland. 

If you’d like any further assistance on anything we’ve mentioned above, or if you are interested in getting aluminium windows installed for your home or commercial building, we’re here to help.

Please get in touch either by dropping us an email or giving us a call on 01623 721 172 where our friendly team is ready to assist you.