Weight

Aluminium is light with a density one third of that of steel.

Strength

Aluminium is strong with a tensile strength of 70 to 700MPa depending on the alloy and manufacturing process.  Extrusions of the right alloy and design are as strong as structural steel.

Elasticity

The Young's modulus for aluminium is a third that of steel (E=70,000 MPa).  this means that the moment of inertia has to be three times as great for an aluminium extrusion to achieve the same deflection as a steel profile.

Formability

Aluminium has a good formability, a characteristic that is fully utilized in extruding.  Aluminium can also be cast, drawn and milled.

Machining

Aluminium is very easy to machine.  Ordinary machining equipment can be used such as saws and drills.  Aluminium is also suitable for forming in both the hot and cold condition.

Joining

Aluminium can be joined using all the normal methods available such as welding, soldering, adhesive bonding and riveting.

Corrosion resistance

A thin layer of oxide is formed in contact with air, which provides very good protection against corrosion, even in corrosive environments.  This layer can be further strengthened by surface treatment such as anodising or powder coating.

Conductivity

The thermal and electrical conductivities are very good, even when compared to copper.  Furthermore, an aluminium conductor weighs half that of an equivalent copper conductor.

Linear expansion

Aluminium has a relatively high coefficient of linear expansion compared to other metals.  This should be taken into account at the design stage to compensate for differences in expansion.

Non-toxic

Aluminium is not poisonous and is therefore highly suitable for the preparation and storage of food.

Reflectivity

Aluminium is a good reflector of both light and heat.