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Thursday, November 29, 2018

Important Features of the Aluminum Rod

Aluminum and copper are two widely used metals in various applications. There is a lot of difference between the two in weight, capacity, and cost. Aluminum was widely used in many electrical applications in the past, though some manufacturers changed and moved to copper. However, several factors like cost, reliability, and coating have made them revert to Aluminum.

More robust as an alloy

There is a misconception that aluminum is lightweight and soft and must only be applied with compression connectors. This is not true. With some plating and design changes, the aluminum rod can be used anywhere without the compression or mechanical connectors. Aluminum in its original pure form is not resilient enough for use in electrical appliances. The properties evolve, and an aluminum alloy can prove to be stronger than copper at times. It is often blended with Manganese making it sturdier and increase its longevity.

Properties of aluminum

Aluminum is a silvery grey metal that has several of the necessary characteristics. It is non-magnetic, light, malleable, and quite ductile. Being lighter in weight than copper, aluminum is preferred over copper in some electrical appliances even though it is lower in electrical conductivity than copper. The aluminum rod is manufactured in different density and grain sizes. They can also be created as per the specific needs of a customer.  Aluminum is easy to use, clean, nontoxic and safe.

Features of Aluminum rod:

1. Corrosion resistant:

Aluminum in its bare form and in direct contact with air produces a protective layer of Aluminum oxide on its exterior that offers stern resistance to corrosion. This is one of the reasons for its preference in most of the external applications. The metal is not preferred for alkaline products although it is a good resistant to acids.

2. Electrical conductivity:

The metal is highly conducive which is one reason for its use as an electric conductor. It has the capabilities to conduct double the capacity of electricity than any other metal.

3. A good indicator:

Aluminum displays up to 80% light reflectivity to both infrared and ultraviolet properties. The metal is also considered as a good insulator and vastly applied in light fittings.

4. Durable:

Being highly durable the aluminum products are often transformed and recycled. Aluminum can be melted with ease and recycled to be used for any other application. It does not lose any of its properties easily. The metal works well in any tough weather conditions being rustproof and waterproof.

Precision in design


It is very important to ensure that the aluminum rod is manufactured with great accuracy. A slight alteration or disfigure can have a negative impact and it will not perform to its full capacity. Being quite inexpensive, it is now being considered for use in cooking appliances, heat exchangers, water treatment plants etc.

Copper wire cables are vastly used for large buildings. Copper being small, compact and more ductile is preferred in wirings inside the complexes. Copper and aluminum are also used in bus bars, transformers, underground cabling, and many similar.

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