10 Industrial Uses of Aluminum and in Daily Life

The uses of aluminum both in daily life and in the industrial field are various, as it is used as an electrical conductor, for the transport and preservation of food and in the framework of buildings and other structures.

Aluminum is a light and resistant non-ferromagnetic metal, one of the most versatile elements that exist, and represents in a certain way the industrialization and modernism of the world, being vital in transportation, construction, basic services and food.

It is the second most used metal in the world, only behind iron. About 40 million tons of aluminum are produced annually.

Main uses of aluminum

Aluminum extraction is a very expensive and energy-intensive process. However, this is offset by its high strength, low weight, good conduction of electricity and heat, resistance to corrosion and ease of molding, which in the long run makes it cheaper than other metals.

It’s very suitable for creating thin sheets and wires. Although it loses hardness when it is cast in the form of a structure, it can be used for alloys with other elements such as copper, iron, zinc or silicon, which increases its hardness.

1- Preparation of cutlery and kitchen tools

Perhaps the largest of the everyday uses of aluminum is in the preparation and preservation of food. After stainless steel, it is the most used material for the production of knives, containers, pots and other kitchen implements.

Aluminum foil consists of extremely thin sheets (even less than 0.01 millimeter thick) that are used to wrap practically any material due to its malleability.

It is also resistant to heat, which is why it is usually introduced into ovens in some preparations.

2- Packaging

Most cans for preserving food and beverages are made of aluminum. Sauces, dressings, beer, juices, fish, vegetables and sausages can be found in cans.

Packaging is not just limited to food, virtually any material can be stored in aluminum containers for easy transport. They can name the glue, the paint or the insecticide.

3- Construction

Due to its flexible and malleable nature, aluminum is suitable for supporting structures when properly combined with other components, as its price makes it a good base material.

4- Transportation

All means of land, sea or air transport use aluminum to some degree, not only for external materials, but also for mechanical components.

The best example is in aircraft, where aluminum is preferred due to its cost and relative low weight.

5- Electricity

Despite not being the best conductor of electricity, aluminum has several advantages over other materials that are, such as silver, gold and copper, mainly its low cost and weight.

It is used for high voltage towers, where the electrical wiring must be light, flexible and as economical as possible.

It also has great resistance to corrosion and is easy to weld, making electrical installations more durable and easier to repair.

6- Lithography

Within industrial uses, lithography is one of those that uses aluminum the most, covering practically all its needs. In fact, the litho sheets, with which the plates are made, are made with an aluminum base.

7- Appliances

Aluminum has become a powerful material when it comes to manufacturing household appliances such as refrigerators, stoves, washing machines, ovens or microwaves.

The reason is that this material is heat resistant, conducts heat well, is durable and is also very light. In turn, new aesthetic trends highly value the design of this type of technology made of aluminum.

8- Components for computers

Some components such as heat sinks to cool the CPU or graphics cards have aluminum as their main element.

In the case of heatsinks, the thermal and corrosive resistance of aluminum alloys make this material the best ally to keep computers in good thermal condition.

9- Plates

The nameplates that can be seen on mailboxes, trophies, desks, apartment doors, or leather goods are usually made of aluminum. The reason is that aluminum is very malleable and engraving is simple and effective.

10- Jewelry

Many jewelry and costume jewelery products are made from aluminum due to how malleable it is. Being a cheap material, it helps these types of products, generally expensive, to reach a larger population.