What is Aluminium? A Deep Dive into Its Grades and Uses
28 Jul 2025
Aluminium is one of the most versatile materials around. From kitchen appliances to aerospace, it’s used everywhere. But what is aluminium exactly, and why is it so popular? Let’s break it down – straightforward and no nonsense.
Article in brief
Aluminium is a lightweight, non-toxic, 100% recyclable metal used across industries from aerospace to kitchenware.
It’s made from bauxite, processed into alumina powder, then smelted to create pure aluminium.
Aluminium grades vary depending on alloying elements, with series like 1000, 2000, 3000, 4000, 5000, 6000, 7000, and 8000 offering different properties like strength and formability.
Popular grades like 6082, 6061 T6, and 1050A H14 offer a range of strengths and corrosion resistance, suited for structural, industrial, and light-duty applications.
Aluminium has excellent corrosion resistance, forming a protective oxide layer that prevents rust, making it ideal for marine environments.
Aluminium welding requires the right technique, especially due to its high thermal conductivity, with MIG welding being a common method.
It’s fully recyclable and retains its properties after recycling, making it an eco-friendly option for long-term use.
What is aluminium?
Aluminium is a lightweight, non-toxic and 100% recyclable metal. It’s made from bauxite – yep, that’s a rock. The bauxite is processed into alumina powder, then smelted at high temperatures to get the good stuff – pure aluminium.
Related: The History of Aluminium: Uses, Properties and Environmental Impact
Aluminium grades and series
You’ll see aluminium in different grades, and each has its own set of properties. The main thing that changes is the mix of alloying elements. Here’s a quick rundown:
- 1000 series: Pure aluminium, great corrosion resistance but low strength.
- 2000 series: Copper’s in the mix here. Strong stuff – used for aerospace parts.
- 3000 series: Manganese added. This is your go-to general-purpose alloy.
- 4000 series: Silicon in here, which makes it easier to weld and cast.
- 5000 series: Alloyed with magnesium. This one’s tough and perfect for marine environments.
- 6000 series: Magnesium and silicon mix. It’s versatile, heat treatable and works great for structural applications.
- 7000 series: The big hitter. High strength, used in aerospace and sports equipment.
- 8000 series: Aluminium, iron and other elements. Mainly used for packaging (like aluminium foil), electrical cables and some architectural applications.
Key aluminium grades and their properties
6082 aluminium
- Yield stress of 6061-T6 aluminium: Around 240 N/mm². For 6082? It’s in the same ballpark – strong enough to handle demanding jobs but easy to form and machine.
6061 T6 aluminium
- Aluminium ultimate tensile strength: 6061 T6 tops out at 310 N/mm², which is strong enough to handle serious pressure.
1050A H14 aluminium
Aluminium welding and workability
Welding aluminium isn’t the same as welding steel – this stuff’s tricky. Aluminium has high thermal conductivity, so you need to move fast to avoid messing up the job. Mig welding aluminium is the go-to technique, but you’ll need the right filler rods – 5356 or 4043 are your best bet.
Corrosion resistance and durability
Aluminium’s got great corrosion resistance. When it reacts with oxygen, it forms a protective oxide layer that stops rust from taking hold. And it’s naturally resistant to things like seawater, making it ideal for marine environments.
Aluminium in the real world
Get the aluminium you need, fast and easy
So, what is aluminium? It’s a lightweight, corrosion-resistant and strong material that’s used all over the place. Whether you’re welding aluminium for DIY or designing high-performance aerospace parts, understanding the different grades helps you choose the right material for the job.
Need 1050 aluminium sheet metal or 6082 aluminium for heavy-duty work? Get the right stuff, delivered fast – straight to your door. The Metal Store has a huge range of aluminium grades, sizes and finishes. And we’ll deliver them for free on orders over £150 for most of the UK or £250 for the Highlands.
