Aluminium is such a versatile metal, it can be processed in many different ways depending on the application required. Aluminium can be alloyed with other materials to make an array of metals with different properties. The main alloying ingredients are iron, silicon, zinc, copper and magnesium.

Cast

Aluminium can be cast into an infinite variety of shapes. The statue of Eros in London's Piccadilly Circus erected in 1893 is cast aluminium.

Rolled

Aluminium can be rolled into plate, sheets, or wafer thin foils the thickness of a human hair. The rolling process changes the characteristics of the metal, making it less brittle and more ductile.

Extruded

Aluminium can be extruded to form intricate shapes and sections. It is heated to around 500ºC and pushed  through a die at great pressure.

Forged

Aluminium can be forged by hammering to make stress-bearing parts for aircraft and internal combustion engines.

Joined, formed and milled

Aluminium can be joined together by welding, adhesive bonding, riveting or screwing. It can be formed or shaped by bending or superplastic moulding. It can also be milled or turned on a lathe.

Heat treatment

The properties of the metal can be modified through heat treatment or mechanical working.

Anodised

The appearance can be modified by surface treatments such as anodising or powder coating.

Fine aluminium products

Aluminium powder, flake and paste can be formed by blowing gas under pressure at molten aluminium. This process forms droplets of different sizes. These aluminium products are used in explosives, rocket fuel, metallurgy, chemicals, inks, and decorative materials.

Chemicals

Aluminium chemicals are important in water treatment, papermaking, fire retardants, fillers and pharmaceuticals.

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