Here are 6 Great Reasons to Choose Aluminum Extrusions for Your Project

Aluminum Extrusion, Gabrian Blog

When you’re working on a new architectural project or developing electronic devices, good material selection is always key. You need materials that are cost-effective, have a high lifespan and minimize product weight. But researching different materials can be time-consuming.

The due-diligence required for material selection may leave you feeling tired, frustrated and wishing the whole process was easier. If you’re considering aluminum for your project, there are some key benefits to consider.

Here are 6 key benefits of aluminum that could make it a good choice for your project:

#1 Versatility

Aluminum is naturally soft and lightweight. The metal can be molded into a variety of different shapes and contours.

#2 Relative Low Cost

Aluminum’s versatility leads to low tooling costs. Since fewer components need to be designed, fabrication is reduced and assembly is simplified.

#3 High Strength-to-Weight Ratio

Aluminum has an even higher strength-to-weight ratio than steel, and its weight is only one third the weight of steel. In the auto industry, this has contributed to the trend of lightweighting.

#4 Non-Corroding Properties

Aluminum is non-corrosive. It has a naturally occurring oxide film that protects it from corrosion.

#5 Ability to Accept High-Performance Coatings

Aluminum can be anodized, and high-performance coatings can easily be applied to further enhance its non-corrosive properties. It can become suitable for even extreme environments.

#6 Environmentally Friendly

Aluminum doesn’t require trees to be cut down the way wood does. It’s also highly recyclable.

What are some typical applications of aluminum?

Aluminum is a popular choice in:

Architectural products like curtain walls and frames.
Windows and doors.
Heat sinks for electronic devices.
Furniture and cabinets (handles, hinges, support frames).
Garden tools
Transportation: airplanes, trains, and buses (handrails, luggage racks, seats)
Communication devices (iPhones, MacBooks)

With all the benefits and potential applications aluminum extrusions have, you may decide it’s a good fit for your project. If you do, we’re here to help. Find out more about our Aluminum Extrusion capabilities.

The featured image above is a glass curtain wall of the Burj Khalifa. With a surface area of 1.2 million square feet, the unitized curtain wall comprises roughly 28,000 prefabricated panels of double-layer glass set within extruded aluminum frames. Image Source: Andrew Moore