Aluminum is lightweight, flexible, ductile, long-lasting, and durable. Aluminum is often preferred over other metals due to its ability to perform in a variety of environments.
Aluminum weighs less than other metals made of steel. Aluminum weighs one-third of the other metals (which include steel, brass, and copper). Aluminum automobile structures are cheaper than steel, according to the Aluminum Association. Aluminum structures can be lighter than steel. Aluminum structures have a weight savings of up to 55% compared to steel. Aluminum structures are more economical than steel in the marine transportation sector. Aluminum hulls can save 35 to 45 percent on weight. There is a 55-65 percent weight saving if aluminum is used instead of steel for the construction of marine superstructures. Aluminum structures are more cost-effective than steel structures for fuel and battery use due to their lower energy consumption. Drive Aluminum reports that electric cars and trucks with advanced aluminum body structures have lower use of batteries than vehicles with steel bodies. This results in weight savings of up to 3,000 dollars per unit. Aluminum hybrid cars and trucks offer fuel cost savings of between 5 to 7 percent compared to steel hybrid cars.
Aluminum is non-corrosive, unlike steel. Futura Industries says that aluminum forms an oxide film which naturally protects it from corrosion. According to How Stuff Works, this natural protection against deterioration occurs when aluminum reacts with oxygen. This creates a barrier that protects the metal against water and other substances. This natural barrier is one reason aluminum is better than some stainless steel and carbon steel in certain environments. According to the British Stainless Steel Association, stainless steel can corrode under “aggressive circumstances.” To prevent corrosion, steel should be protected by painting or other treatments.
This article was written by Bob Elliot, Bob is the sales/design consultant for Pyramid Aluminum Inc. Pyramid Aluminum Inc is dedicated to providing installation of aluminum patio enclosures designed with an eye to detail and built for the long-lasting value our clients deserve. We are fully equipped to handle any project in the Tampa Bay area. Residential or commercial, no job is too large or too small!