Aluminum applications expand

The transportation industry has increased its demands for extruded, cast, and sheet aluminum products, while the building and construction industries have demonstrated increased interest in new aluminum applications. The unique combination of properties provided by aluminum and its alloys make aluminum one of the most versatile, economical, and attractive materials for a wide range of applications. The low density and high strength of some alloys permit design and construction of strong, lightweight structures that are especially beneficial for bridges, buildings, and vehicles of all kinds. Aluminum is easily cast by all foundry processes, and can be readily worked into any needed form. Furthermore, increasing production efficiencies are making aluminum more cost-competitive with other materials. This article focuses on aluminum applications in automobiles, bridges, and housing.