5 INDUSTRIAL AND EVERYDAY USES OF ALUMINUM - SCIENCE - 2025

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 transport, construction, basic services and food.

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

Main uses of aluminum

Aluminum mining 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, making it more economical in the long run than other metals.

It is very suitable for the creation of foils and thin cables. Although it loses toughness when cast into a framework, it can be used for alloys with other elements such as copper, iron, zinc, or silicon, increasing its hardness.

1- Preparation of cutlery and kitchen tools

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

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

It is also resistant to heat, which is why it is usually put into the oven in some preparations.

2- Packaging

Most food and beverage cans are made from aluminum. Sauces, dressings, beer, juices, fish, vegetables, and cold cuts can be found in cans.

Packaging is not limited to food only, practically any material can be stored in aluminum containers for easy transport. Glue, paint, or insecticide can be named.

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 that of airplanes, 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 power lines must be light, flexible and as economical as possible.

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

References

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