Why choose aluminum for metal electrical conduits?

If you have ever studied the properties of aluminum, chances are good that you already understand the benefits of aluminum products, especially in relation to metal electrical conduits.

Here are the ten top reasons why you should choose aluminum for metal electrical conduits:

Light in Weight – One of the most well-known properties of aluminum is that it is light in weight. Compared to steel, which is also commonly used for metal electrical conduits, aluminum is one-third the density, but this does not affect its strength.

Strong and Durable – The tensile strength of most aluminum alloys used in extrusion for metal electrical conduits is between 150-300 MPa. At low temperatures, the strength of aluminum increases and does not become brittle like most steel grades.

Easy to Machine – Whatever you need to do with regard to extrusion and fabrication of aluminum and aluminum alloys, it can be easily worked using most secondary operations, including milling, cutting, bending, drilling and punching, allowing for unlimited customization opportunities.

Malleability – Aluminum is extremely malleable, making it perfect for extrusion and fabrication across many different industries. It’s malleability is what makes it so great for extrusion, whether the metal is hot or cold.

Joining – While the properties of aluminum make it easy to join, weld and bond, the use of extrusion and fabrication can eliminate some of these procedures, having incorporated the features into the design.

Reflective – Aluminum is very reflective, and can be used to reflect visible light, as well as radiated heat, which makes it perfect for metal electrical conduits and other related uses.

Screening & Shielding – Boxes that are made from aluminum can be designed to be tight enough to screen off and shield electromagnetic radiation. Aluminum is conductive and has many shielding and protective qualities.

Corrosion Resistance – One of the most unique benefits of aluminum products is the natural ability of aluminum to form a thin layer of protective oxide after the aluminum reacts to exposure to oxygen in the air. While the layer is extremely thin, it provides protection against corrosion and it is self-repairing if it becomes damaged. Custom aluminum coating solutions, such as anodizing, can provide even more strength and thickness to this natural layer of protection.

Non-Magnetic – Another great attribute that contributes toward effectiveness as a metal electrical conduit, aluminum is non-magnetic and does not cause interference of magnetic fields. As a result, aluminum is frequently used in magnet x-ray devices and other equipment that relies on magnetic fields.

Conductivity – With or without custom aluminum coating solutions, one of the biggest benefits of aluminum products that makes it perfect for use with metal electrical conduits, is its ability to be an excellent conductor of both heat and electricity. The lightweight properties of aluminum provides great results at almost half the weight of copper conductors.