Know the Major Advantages of Aluminum 2014
Aluminum is one of the most commonly used metals in the world as well as the most used material in the aerospace industry. It has a huge influence on our lives. From being used for kitchen utensils to an aircraft’s structural elements, it is an ideal metal for various industries and applications.
Aluminum History: Aluminum has been used in aircraft manufacturing ever since the Wright brothers built the first aircraft. Engine crankcases of the first aircraft were made of aluminum. Though, the main structural elements were made of wood. Aluminum is considered the best material for the aerospace industry and its use in manufacturing aircraft has improved since the 1940s. The reason behind using aluminum alloys like Aluminum 2014 for aircraft manufacturing is its invaluable properties that help reduce aircraft manufacturing costs while meeting the stringent requirements of the applications.
Benefits of Aluminum
Aluminum is the perfect choice for aircraft as it has many useful properties. Wood was originally used to craft airplanes but because it is defenceless to rotting, it is not used anymore. Similarly, steel is stronger than aluminum, but it is too heavy, which is why it is only used in those parts of aircraft where extreme strength is needed. Let’s explore the common advantages of using aluminum alloys like QQ-A-200/2 in detail:
Light Weight: Aluminum alloys like 2014-T6511 are well-known for their lightweight as they help aerospace manufacturers reduce the weight of an aircraft, make it fuel-efficient, and increase its range. It is about one-third of the weight of the steel, helping an aircraft carry more weight and spend longer periods on flights.
High strength: Even though pure aluminum is a strong structural material for commercial use with a tensile strength of 90 MPa, it can be further strengthened through heat treatment, cold rolling, and the use of alloys. The most powerful aluminum alloys are created with copper, manganese, and silicon.
Corrosion Resistance: Aluminium forms a protective surface oxide layer whenever exposed to air and moisture. This layer protects aluminum from various types of corrosion. That’s why aluminum alloys like Aluminum 2014 are used for a variety of aerospace applications as well as the automotive industry. This natural oxide layer also makes them resistant to fire.
Conclusion: Aluminum is a high-quality, irreplaceable metal being used for almost all types of industries. It has helped every industry with its various features and properties. Now, as an aerospace manufacturer, you’re probably thinking about where top-quality aluminum alloys are available at competitive prices. FlightMetals is the specialty metals supplier of aluminum products like AMS 4121, QQ-A-200/2, 2014-T6511, 2219-T851, AMS QQ-A-250/30, Aluminum 2014, and AMS 4599.
