Can aluminium tubes be welded to an aluminium absorber plate?
Hydro: Yes. Both laser welding and ultrasonic welding, as well as continuous step welding, is possible. Because both surfaces are in aluminium, they behave identically and are more easily welded than absorbers with copper tubes and aluminium plates that are produced today.

Can aluminium tubes be brazed to produce absorbers?
Hydro: Yes. Aluminium can be brazed. It is different compared to copper brazing and some training may be required to learn how the material behaves. Naturally, Hydro offers its customers the advice for brazing aluminium.

Can aluminium tubes be straightened, cut or bent with the same tools and processes as copper tubes?
Hydro: Yes. Aluminium tubes can be mechanically processed in the same way as copper  tubes. The  same machinery can be used, but different machinery settings are likely to apply. Also, it is important that tools and machinery are properly cleaned before switching material so the aluminium tubes don’t become contaminated with copper particles. Hydro also offers its expertise in this area.

Read more about aluminium welding.
Read more about aluminium brazing.
Read more about aluminium tube mechanics.