Aluminum is a strong, lightweight, versatile material used in everything from soda cans to electrical wiring. Aluminum, along with steel, has become one of the world’s most used metals due to its exceptional properties. Here are six interesting facts about working with aluminum.
Aluminum Is Sensitive to Overheating
When working with aluminum materials, it’s vital to avoid overheating and damaging the material because it is sensitive to overheating. When welding aluminum, you should seek various methods to bond materials without damaging the aluminum.
Aluminum Is the Most Abundant Metal
Aluminum is the most abundant element after oxygen and silicon. There is more aluminum than iron globally, and the resources will last for many generations.
Aluminum Is Recyclable
There are few materials that are easily recyclable, and some of their properties are lost in the recycling process. Nearly 75 percent of aluminum ever produced is still in use because it is infinitely recyclable. Recycling this material can save enough energy to keep a 100-watt light burning for four hours.
Aluminum Is Lightweight
A single piece of aluminum only weighs 2.7 grams, making it easy to handle in a production building or factory. Aluminum’s low weight also helps reduce energy usage during production and transportation, making this material economically sustainable.
Aluminum Was Used Thousands of Years Ago
Another interesting fact about working with aluminum is that you’re using material that has been used for thousands of years. The first documented uses of aluminum took place thousands of years ago in ancient Greece. During those years, people used aluminum to dye their clothes. The production of aluminum in metal form began in the 19th century.
Aluminum Is Super Flexible
This material is super flexible, which makes it strong enough to withstand impact from strong winds or other severe weather conditions. Aluminum is mainly used to manufacture outdoor items, structures, and vehicles.
