Aluminum tubes come in different series and alloys. Each of these has special properties that make them suitable for particular applications. Aluminum can also be worked on to produce various shapes. These formations are gotten through mechanical processes like extrusion.
Here are some of the most common alloys:
- 1000 Series (Aluminum alloys)
This is pure aluminum alloy. The minimum aluminum content in these series is 99%. Alloy 1100, 1200, 1035, 1050, 1060 and 1070 are the most common in this group. Their mechanical and physical compositions make them suitable for chemical equipment and sometimes electrical conduction.
- 2000 Series (Copper alloys)
Aluminum and copper combination with amazing strength and commendable toughness. Under this group, popular alloys like 2014, 2017, 2A12, 2024, 2219, 2A11, 2A14 and 2A50 dominate. These two comprise of aluminum and copper as the dominant compositions. This series offers the best alloys for application in the aerospace industry and chemical equipment.
- 3000 Series (Manganese alloys)
Manganese is the dominant alloying element. This series alloys are known for good resistance and have also made a good name as far as formability is concerned. The two common series here include 3003 and 3A12. Both have aluminum and manganese combinations. Besides, they are a great option for cooking utensils. In addition, you can use them for heat exchangers.
- 5000 Series (Manganese alloys)
In this series, manganese and aluminum also dominate. There are three common alloys under this including alloy 5051A, 5083, 5086, 5052, 5154, 5A06, 5454, 5456, 5A02, 5A03, and 5A05. These ones have been applied severally in marine and automotive industries.
- 6000 Series (Manganese and Silicon)
Three elements make up this series including aluminum, magnesium, and silicon. The series works well for applications in structural and architectural industries. Under the 6000 series, it has been established that alloys 6005, 6105, 6005A, 6041, 6042, 6061, 6351, 6082, 6162, 6262, 6064, 6063, 6066 and 6A02 are the most common and frequently used by manufacturers.
- 7000 Series (Zinc and Manganese)
The 7000 series entails aluminum and zinc combinations. Out of them all, the 7075 alloy stands out. The series is a common material in the aerospace and applications that have to withstand high pressure. This series is popular for its fatigue resistance and also high strength.
- 8000 Series (Iron or Lithium)
The 8000 series is a three element combination including aluminum, iron, and silicon. With alloys 8A06 known as the most common, the 8000 series has high electrical conductivity and is applied mostly in electrical conductors.