Advantages of using aluminium in construction
It is certain that Aluminium will become even more widely used in construction as pressure grows for buildings that are flexible, easy to maintain and offer low cost-in-use.
There is certainly scope for growth in a wide variety of structural applications, such as supporting Aluminium sheet roofing on aluminium extruded roofing members. This growth is limited principally by a lack of understanding of Aluminium’s true structural abilities.
Aluminium offers unparalleled manufacturing flexibility, the broadest ranges of finishes, an excellent strength-to-weight ratio, unlimited recyclables and has a far better environmental profile than many specifiers believe. Above all, it offers architects the most elegant and satisfying design solutions.
For many contemporary designers there are simply no alternative to Aluminium – the form dictates the material and the material facilitates the form. This fact alone will ensure the continued growth of Aluminium in construction.
Below we look at the main advantages of using aluminium in construction:
1. Lightweight
Aluminium is one of the lightest available commercial metals with a density approximately one third that of steel or copper.
2. Excellent Corrosion Resistance
Aluminium has excellent resistance to corrosion due to the thin layer of aluminium oxide that forms on the surface of aluminium when it is exposed to air
3. Strong at Low Temperatures
Steel becomes brittle at low temperatures, aluminium increases in tensile strength and retains excellent toughness.
4. Easy to Work
Aluminium can be easily fabricated into various forms such as foil, sheets, geometric shapes, rod, tube and wire.
5. Easy Surface Treatment
For many applications, aluminium requires no protective or decorative coating; the surface supplied is entirely adequate without further finishing
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