Chemical symbol AL, atomic number 13

Aluminum is the most abundant metallic element on earth. It was first isolated in 1825 and is primarily used in the following industries: buildings and construction, auto parts, corrosion resistant chemical equipment, magnets, power transmission lines, photoengraving plates, and long products for pastes and ointments.

PROPERTIES, ALLOYS and TEMPER

1XXX 1100 most common, is the softest of the aluminum alloys. It has excellent corrosion resistance and high thermal and electrical conductivity. This alloy has excellent ductility and a deep draw quality. It is used mostly for food and chemical handling, reflectors and nameplates.

2XXX 2024 most common, has copper as its primary alloying element. It is very strong, but is not to be used in a highly corrosive environment. It is used for aerospace sheets, forgings, pistons, rivets and truck wheels.

3XXX 3003 most common, has manganese as its primary alloying element. It has good workability and good corrosion resistance. It is used for food and chemical handling, as well as cooking utensils.

4XXX has silicon as its primary alloying component. This alloy has a low melting point and is used for welding filler rods and brazing sheet applications.

5XXX 5052 most common, has magnesium as its primary alloying element. This is the highest strength wrought alloy. It has good welding ability and good corrosion resistance when Mg level is up to 3%. It is mostly used for fuel tanks, wire, cryogenic tanks, marine and land transportation, and automotive parts.

6XXX 6061 most common, has in its chemical formula Mg2 Si precipitate as its alloying element. It is used for extrusions, pipeline, bus bars, tread plates and canoes.

7XXX 7075 most common, has zinc as its alloying element. It is very strong but only at high temperatures. It is used for aerospace sheets, pistons, sports equipment and forgings.

Aluminum is treated at various tempers:

F as fabricated, O Annealed, H wrought tempers, W solution heat treated and T thermally treated.