In India, common aluminum extrusion grades include 6061, 6063, 5052,
and 1100. 6061 is known for its versatility and strength, 5052 for its
corrosion resistance, and 1100 for formability and conductivity. 6063 is
widely used for architectural applications due to its good surface finish
and corrosion resistance. Other grades like 2024 and 7075 are also
available, but they are typically used for specific applications requiring
higher strength. [1, 1, 2, 2, 3, 3, 4, 5, 6]
Common Aluminum Extrusion Grades in India:
6061: This is a versatile and strong alloy, suitable for a wide range
of applications. [2, 2]
6063: Commonly used in architectural applications, it offers a good
surface finish, corrosion resistance, and weldability. [3, 3]
5052: Known for its excellent corrosion resistance, especially in
marine environments. [2, 2]
1100: A commercially pure alloy, often chosen for applications
requiring good formability and electrical conductivity. [2, 2]
2024: A high-strength alloy used in aerospace and other
applications requiring high strength-to-weight ratio. [1, 1, 7]
7075: Another high-strength alloy, often used in applications where
strength and durability are critical. [1, 1, 8, 9]
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Grade:
Strength: Consider the load-bearing requirements of your
application. [10, 10]
Corrosion Resistance: If the application is in a corrosive
environment, choose a grade with good corrosion resistance. [2, 2,
10, 10, 11]
Formability: If the application requires complex shapes, choose a
grade with good formability. [10, 10]
Weldability: If welding is required, ensure the chosen grade has
good weldability. [2, 2, 12, 13]
Cost: Consider the cost of the alloy, as higher-grade alloys may
offer better performance and long-term cost savings. [10, 10]
Application: Different grades are better suited for different
applications (e.g., architectural, automotive, marine). [2, 2, 10, 10]
Additional Notes:
T-Slot Extrusions: T-slot aluminum extrusions are commonly used
in framing systems and are available in various sizes and series
(e.g., 20x20, 40x40). [14, 14, 15, 15, 16, 16]
Extrusion Process: Alloys like 6063 are generally considered to be
more ideal for the extrusion process due to their ability to be
extruded into complex shapes with good surface finish. [3, 17, 17]
Consult with Professionals: It is always recommended to consult
with an experienced aluminum extrusion company to determine the
best alloy for your specific needs. [10, 10]
Exploring Different Types of Aluminium Grades: Details & Uses
A metal known for impressive properties, Aluminium finds its rightful place
in diverse applications and sectors. It is a combination of lightweight
properties, durability, and corrosion resistance. As we navigate the diverse
landscape of aluminium grades, it becomes evident that each alloy has a
role to play in shaping the world around us.
From the purity of the 1000 series to the specialized compositions of the
8000 series and the futuristic aluminium-lithium alloys, aluminium
continues to be a driving force in industries as varied as aerospace,
automotive, and consumer goods.
As businesses seek materials with diverse characteristics to meet specific
needs, understanding the different types of aluminium grades and their
applications becomes crucial. Being familiar with the nuances of each
aluminium grade empowers manufacturers to make informed choices,
ensuring that the properties of this remarkable metal are harnessed to
their full potential.
In this blog, we will explore the different types of aluminium grades in
India, along with their key features and the wide spectrum of industries
they serve.
Different Types of Aluminium Grades
1. 1000 Series Aluminium Alloys:
The first on the aluminium grades list is the 1000 series of aluminium
alloys. They are a group of commercially pure aluminium alloys
characterized by their excellent corrosion resistance, high thermal
conductivity, and outstanding electrical conductivity. Comprising nearly
99% aluminium, these alloys are non-heat-treatable; they gain their
strength through cold working processes.
The most prominent alloy in this series is 1100, known for its versatility
and wide range of applications. Due to their high formability and
weldability, 1000-series aluminium alloys are commonly employed in
manufacturing various products, including sheet metal, chemical
equipment, and utensils. Their advantageous properties make them ideal
for applications where corrosion resistance is paramount, such as in the
food and chemical industries.
Another important type is the aluminium grade 1050. It is known for its
high thermal conductivity, excellent corrosion resistance, and ease of
formability, making it widely used in applications such as chemical tanks,
reflectors, and cooking utensils. Aluminium grade 1060 is known for its
high electrical conductivity, excellent corrosion resistance, and ease of
forming, making it commonly used in electrical applications such as
transformer windings or heat exchangers.
Additionally, their electrical conductivity makes them suitable for electrical
conductors and components. However, their soft nature can limit certain
structural applications. Despite this, the 1000 series alloys remain crucial
in industries requiring lightweight, corrosion-resistant materials with
excellent thermal and electrical conductivity.
2. 2000 Series Aluminium Alloys:
The 2000 series aluminium alloys are characterized by their high strength,
excellent fatigue resistance, and good machinability. Comprising primarily
of aluminium and copper as the major alloying elements, these alloys,
including 2024 and 2017, are renowned for their formidable mechanical
properties. They are heat-treatable, allowing for further enhancement of
their strength through precipitation-hardening processes.
Advances in alloy composition and processing techniques continue to
enhance the performance and applicability of 2000 series aluminium
alloys in various demanding environments. Alloy 2024, in particular, is
widely used in aerospace applications due to its exceptional strength-to-
weight ratio. It finds applications in structural components of aircraft.
Aluminium grade 2014, on the other hand, is a high-strength alloy with
excellent machinability, often utilized in aerospace applications for
structural components and fittings, while aluminium grade 2024 is
renowned for its superior strength and fatigue resistance, making it a
preferred choice for aircraft structural components and high-stress
applications.
While the 2000 series alloys exhibit remarkable strength, they are
susceptible to stress corrosion cracking, and their corrosion resistance is
not as high as some other aluminium alloys. Despite this limitation, their
exceptional strength and fatigue resistance make them crucial in
aerospace, military, and high-performance structural applications where
weight reduction and robust mechanical properties are paramount.
3. 3000 Series Aluminium Alloys:
With manganese as its alloying element, the 3000 series strikes a balance
between strength, formability, and corrosion resistance. The 3000 series
aluminium alloys are characterized by their manganese content, which
typically ranges between 1.0% and 1.5%. The most common alloy in this
series is 3003, known for its excellent corrosion resistance, formability,
and weldability. These alloys are non-heat-treatable, relying on cold
working processes for strength enhancement.
Aluminium grade 3105, a significant part of this series, is a non-heat-
treatable alloy appreciated for its corrosion resistance, formability, and
high strength, often employed in the production of residential siding,
gutters, and general sheet metal work.
The addition of manganese not only enhances corrosion resistance but
also contributes to the alloys’ overall strength and formability. While they
may not possess the same strength levels as some other aluminium
alloys, the 3000 series is prized for its versatility and cost-effectiveness in
applications where high strength is not the primary concern. The
combination of corrosion resistance, formability, and weldability makes
3000 series aluminium alloys well-suited for a variety of practical and
aesthetic purposes in diverse industries.
4. 4000 Series Aluminium Alloys:
Silicon plays a key role in the 4000 series typically ranging from 4.0% to
13.0%. The most notable alloy in this series is 4043, known for its
excellent welding characteristics. These alloys are not typically heat-
treatable and derive their strength from solid solution strengthening. The
primary application for the 4000 series is welding filler wire.
Alloy 4043, with its high silicon content, exhibits low melting temperatures
and fluidity during welding processes, making it ideal for joining
aluminium sheets and components. It is particularly favoured in
applications where post-weld strength and formability are crucial. The
4000 series alloys are compatible with a wide range of aluminium base
alloys, enhancing their utility in various welding applications.
While these alloys offer excellent weldability, they may have reduced
strength compared to some other aluminium series. Nevertheless, their
ability to produce sound welds with minimal cracking or distortion has led
to widespread use in industries such as automotive, construction, and
general fabrication where welding of aluminium is a common requirement.
The 4000 series plays a vital role in facilitating the joining of aluminium
components through effective and reliable welding processes.
5. 5000 Series Aluminium Alloys:
Magnesium takes the spotlight in the 5000 series, providing aluminium
with high strength, good corrosion resistance, and exceptional weldability.
Alloy 5052 is a prime example, finding applications in marine
environments, transportation, and structural components. Alloy 5083 also
exhibits excellent seawater resistance and finds extensive use in marine
applications.
Alloy 5052 is known for its formability and high resistance to corrosion,
making it suitable for applications such as sheet metal work, fuel tanks,
and architectural components. Alloy 5083, with additional elements like
manganese and chromium, offers enhanced strength and excellent
performance in cryogenic environments, making it prevalent in marine
and aerospace applications. Alloy 5754 is a high-strength alloy with
excellent corrosion resistance, making it well-suited for applications in
marine environments, transportation, and structural components where a
combination of strength and resistance to atmospheric corrosion is
essential.
The 5000 series alloys are heat-treatable, allowing for further
strengthening through precipitation-hardening processes. This, coupled
with their inherent corrosion resistance, makes them versatile in various
industries, including transportation, construction, and aerospace. The
alloys’ ability to maintain strength and integrity in corrosive environments,
combined with their weldability, positions them as valuable materials for
applications demanding both durability and fabrication ease.
6. 6000 Series Aluminium Alloys:
The 6000 series aluminium alloys are recognized for their excellent
combination of strength, formability, and corrosion resistance. These
alloys, predominantly composed of aluminium, with additions of
magnesium and silicon as the major alloying elements, include popular
grades such as 6061 and 6082. Renowned for their versatility, these alloys
are widely used in various applications, ranging from structural
components to intricate extrusions.
Alloy 6061 is prized for its high strength and is commonly employed in
aerospace, automotive, and structural applications. It can be easily
extruded and welded, offering a broad range of design
possibilities. Aluminium grade 6082 is a versatile alloy prized for its
excellent weldability, high corrosion resistance, and superior strength,
making it widely utilized in structural applications such as construction,
marine components, and automotive parts.
One of the distinctive features of the 6000 series is its heat-treatability,
allowing for further enhancement of mechanical properties through
precipitation hardening. This makes these alloys suitable for applications
requiring both strength and lightweight. The 6000 series aluminium alloys
find extensive use in industries such as construction, transportation, and
consumer goods, where a balance of strength, formability, and corrosion
resistance is paramount.
7. 7000 Series Aluminium Alloys:
Zinc joins the aluminium alloy composition in the 7000 series, contributing
to high strength. From aircraft structures to bicycle frames and rock-
climbing equipment, the 7000 series finds its niche in industries where
lightweight materials must withstand intense stress and pressure. The
7000 series aluminium alloys are renowned for their exceptional strength,
making them some of the strongest aluminium alloys available.
Alloy 7075, a flagship member, is a popular choice in aerospace
applications due to its exceptional strength-to-weight ratio. Comprising
primarily zinc as the major alloying element, with smaller additions of
copper and a trace of other elements, this alloy exhibits remarkable
toughness and fatigue resistance. The 7000 series alloys are often used in
aerospace applications, where strength and lightweight properties are
critical.
The 7000 series aluminium alloys are heat-treatable, allowing for further
enhancement of their strength through precipitation hardening. This
makes them suitable for demanding applications in the aerospace and
defence industries. Despite their susceptibility to corrosion, the 7000
series remains crucial in situations where uncompromising strength and
durability are paramount, emphasizing their role in high-performance and
structural applications.
8. 8000 Series Aluminium Alloys:
The 8000 series encompasses a range of speciality alloys, each tailored to
specific applications. It includes alloys of 8011, 8021, 8079, 8090 and
8093. The most popular is the 8011 aluminium alloy sheet. These
aluminium alloys come from rare-earth elements (REE); from one or both
of erbium and ytterbium. comprise about 0.30% to 0.80% of aluminium by
weight, 0.10% to 0.30% of iron by weight, and 0.001% to 0.1% of copper
by weight.
The main alloy metal of the alloy sheet is Lithium, which has a
significantly lower density than aluminium because its solubility is also
relatively high, and it can significantly reduce the density in a sufficient
amount of aluminium alloys (usually about 10%, less than other
aluminium alloys). This not only causes the alloy to increase its stiffness
but also responds to age hardening.
This attractive combination of properties makes this series a popular
choice, especially in aerospace applications. Several other industries rely
on these specialized alloys as well – for everything from electronic
components to intricate manufacturing processes. With unique
compositions designed for diverse needs, these alloys showcase the
adaptability of aluminium.
9. Aluminium-lithium Alloys:
Among the new-age types of aluminium products, Aluminium-lithium
alloys take the crown. Aluminium-lithium (Al-Li) alloys represent a
specialized group within the broader realm of aluminium alloys. These
alloys incorporate lithium as a significant alloying element, enhancing
their overall strength-to-weight ratio and providing several aerospace-
specific advantages. The addition of lithium results in lighter and more
structurally efficient materials compared to traditional aluminium alloys.
Al-Li alloys, such as those in the 2000 and 8000 series, are particularly
favoured in the aerospace industry for their reduced density, improved
fatigue resistance, and enhanced stiffness. These alloys contribute to
weight savings in aircraft structures, translating to increased fuel
efficiency and payload capacity. Additionally, the incorporation of lithium
aids in lowering the overall alloy density while maintaining or even
improving mechanical properties, making them attractive for aerospace
applications where weight is a critical factor.
However, challenges associated with manufacturing, welding, and
corrosion resistance have been addressed through ongoing research and
advancements in alloy composition. As the demand for lightweight
materials in aerospace continues to grow, Aluminium-lithium alloys play a
crucial role in achieving the delicate balance between structural integrity
and weight reduction.
Order the Best Aluminium Sheets with Pratham Traders
Aluminium sheets play a key role in industries such as aerospace,
automotive, and electronics, where lightweight materials are essential for
optimal performance. If you are looking for diverse types of aluminium
products, Pratham Traders is where you are sure to find them.
With 10,000+ projects completed, Pratham Traders is one of the leading
stockists of aluminium sheets, plates, rods, bars, blocks, circles, strips,
coils, and other aluminium accessories. We ensure sustainable and strong
products that are corrosion-resistant and are provided at a leading market
price range.
We provide a range of thoughtfully designed products including aluminium
sheets, checkered plates, stucco sheets, perforated sheets, and rolled
plates. Our products are designed with utmost precision and devised for
various industrial and commercial uses. These are widely used in various
manufacturing works and are well-shaped by our vendors. The sheets are
available in multiple grades – 6061-T6, 7075-T6, 5083-H111, 5052-H32,
2014-T6, 1050, 1060, and 8011.
