- 21 November 2024
Aluminum is one of the most commonly chosen metals. However, its properties depend on the type of alloy.
Aluminum is UV-resistant and forms a corrosion-resistant oxide layer when in contact with air. If damaged, the protective layer practically automatically recovers, which means that aluminum does not rust or warp, even without surface treatment. Aluminum is malleable and can be refined as desired. Thanks to its adaptability, aluminum is suitable for many applications. It is a lightweight and strong material, which makes it possible to make profiles with small cross sections. Aluminum profiles are non-toxic, hygienic and easy to clean due to their smooth surface structure. Aluminum can be fully recycled without loss of quality, making it environmentally friendly. Recycling uses only 5% of the energy required for new production.
Most manufacturers offer a wide range of aluminum profiles in various shapes and sizes. The most common on the market is aluminum with the addition of other elements. These include magnesium, zinc, silicon, manganese, copper, nickel or titanium. Pure aluminum, on the other hand, is used primarily for electrical cables or foils, and less often for metal profiles. The most common alloys are:
- A1, EN AW-1050A, or pure aluminum - it has high corrosion resistance and very good formability. It also has high electrical and thermal conductivity.
- PA2, AW-5251 - aluminum-magnesium alloys - is characterized by high ductility and corrosion resistance.
- PA6, AW-2017A - aluminum-magnesium-copper alloy - this is a very strong and ductile material, used, among other things, in the manufacture of automotive parts.
- PA9, AW-7075 - aluminum-zinc-magnesium-copper alloy - has similar properties to PA6 alloy. Aluminum profiles of this quality can be used in the aerospace industry and in the production of sports equipment.
- PA13, AW-5083 - aluminum-magnesium-copper alloy - is characterized by high water resistance, so it is often used in the shipbuilding industry.
- PA38, AW-6060 - aluminum-magnesium-silicon alloy - due to its high ductility, it can be used, among other things, for the manufacture of window joinery.
Aluminum alloy PA38 is a medium-strength, heat-treated alloy with a strength slightly lower than 6005A. It features very good corrosion resistance and welds easily. Aluminum PA38 also has good cold deformability, especially in the T4 state. It is a commonly used alloy for very complex cross sections and responds well to anodizing.
What distinguishes PA38 aluminum alloy. Properties are good weldability by conventional methods (MIG and TIG). SG-AlMg5, SG-AlSi and SG-AlMg3 are recommended as welding filler. In the annealed state, some difficulties may arise during machining (for example, band or thread chips). Its machinability improves with aging.
Medium mechanical properties and the ability to be used in contact with food are other characteristics that PA38 aluminum alloy has. These properties must be certified by EN 602. For decorative anodizing, choose EN AW-6060 material with anodizing quality according to DIN 17611.
Where is PA38 aluminum used? Applications include the shipbuilding industry. Among heat-treated aluminum alloys, this one shows average mechanical properties and good resistance to atmospheric and marine corrosion. The material is well welded and is also used in the automotive and railroad industries, among others. Where else can PA38 aluminum be used? Applications include:
- The alloy is typically used for profiles with complex cross sections and/or requiring anodizing.
- Architectural sections of windows, doors, curtain walls.
- Interior furnishings, framing systems, lighting, ladders, balustrades, fences.
- Heat sink sections, electronic modules, electric motor housings.
- Flexible assembly systems, special machine components.
- Flooring for trucks and trailers, pneumatic systems, railroads, interior applications.
- Irrigation, heating and cooling pipes.
- Furniture, office equipment.
