Sourcing metal is not as easy as it sounds. There is no one-size-fits-all technique you can rely on regarding aluminum. There are many aluminum grades, each one suited for distinct purposes. Thus, choosing the right one for a specific application is essential. Whether you are sourcing aluminum for sheets, tubing, or bars, you must make an informed decision.
To do that, you must understand the different aluminum grades and how they suit various needs.
This guide is to help you gain the essential knowledge and determine which one is best for your sheets, bars, and tubing. Also, you need the best aluminum supplier in Phoenix to procure the finest quality aluminum.
What Are The Different Aluminum Grades?
Aluminum grades differ based on their composition. Different alloys lend different properties to the grade, making it suitable for multiple industry applications. The most common classification system in the U.S. is the Aluminum Association system, which groups aluminum alloys into wrought and cast categories. Aluminum grades are grouped into the 1000-8000 series.
Here are some of the most common grades you should explore when shopping for aluminum sheets, tubes, or bars:
1000 Series
This series is suitable when you need exceptional corrosion resistance for the application. The reason? It is 99% pure aluminum, very malleable, and, thus, highly corrosion resistant. It is not used for structural applications but is quite popular in kitchen appliances and food handling applications.
It is commonly used in aluminum sheets and foils.
Series 2000
Copper distinguishes this series as the primary alloying element, which imparts excellent strength and workability. Considering the hardness of the series, it is heat-treatable and made workable through heat treatment. Its strength is exceptional.
Series 3000
The series contains manganese as the main alloying element, which allows it strength and corrosion resistance and also enhances workability. It is used widely in construction and automotive, thanks to its properties.
Series 5000
The alloying element in this series is magnesium, which lends it corrosion resistance and a high strength-to-weight ratio. It is used to manufacture sheets, bars, and tubes and is widely used in marine applications where corrosion resistance is the top priority.
Series 6000
This series has magnesium and silicon as the alloying elements, which enhance its workability, lend it exceptional strength, and also make it corrosion-resistant. It is heat-treatable and is used in multiple applications such as structural applications, automotive parts, aerospace components, frames, etc.
To source the top aluminum grades for your business, partner with the best aluminum suppliers in Phoenix and Mesa, such as AZ Metals.
Which Grade Is Right For Aluminum Sheets, Bars, and Tubes
Each aluminum series has different grades. These are used for making aluminum sheets, bars, and tubes for distinct applications. Which one is right for your sheets, bars, or tubes? Find out:
Aluminum Sheets
When durability is the primary consideration, 5052 or 6061 are excellent choices. For projects that require easy formability and corrosion resistance, 3003 is also a great option.
Aluminum Bars
Consider what you need the bar to do when shopping with an aluminum sheet supplier or checking the aluminum bar price. 6061 bars are ideal for structural applications, while 2024 aluminum offers high strength for aerospace parts.
Aluminum Tubing
6061 is best for aluminum tubing, offering a great mix of strength, corrosion resistance, and weldability. It’s used in everything from bike frames to aerospace structures.
Why You Should Work With A Trusted Aluminum Supplier?
Whether working on a large-scale or smaller project, you must procure only the best-quality materials. Aluminum, having so many grades, requires you to partner with a knowledgeable and trusted supplier who can offer a wide variety of aluminum grades and help you choose the right one for your project. Also, if you need metal fabrication services, you should be able to receive them under the same roof.
If you are looking for one such solution and are tired of searching for an ‘aluminum supplier near me’ every time you start a new project, contact AZ Metals.
Our fast, reliable, and competitively priced services have served customers in Mesa, Phoenix, and nearby areas for over 10 years.
We offer a broad range of aluminum sheets for sale, tubing, and bars, all available in various grades to meet your specific requirements. Our value-added services make AZ Metals your one-stop shop for metal solutions.
Whether you need metal or fabrication services, visit us at AZ Metals today!
