Aluminum I Beam

The architectural use of aluminum is evident in most structures constructed, or under construction today. Elemental aluminum is not the best metal to use for construction. It is malleable and highly corrosive resistant, but only moderately strong, and this is why it’s not used, although being more expensive than other metals, in its pure form, is also another factor. Moderately strong does not cut it when it comes to construction. The strength needs to be guaranteed, and that’s why aluminum is alloyed with other elements- for its strength to be amplified. There are different elements that can be chosen, and if you are really specific about your aluminum needs, you can precise exactly which ones. One of the uses of aluminum is in the making of aluminum I Beam.

If one was to guess where this aluminum structure got its name from, they would probably refer to its shape, which is actually true. Upon manufacturing, or fabricating it, the aluminum I beam adopts an ‘I’ shape on its edges, which is the derivative source of its name. It is mostly used in construction, because it provides the same strength and versatility that a solid aluminum beam offers, only without using as much raw material in making it. The aluminum I beam is used in home settings in building of garages and other secondary structures, and commercially in constructing high-rise buildings. Their high strength to weight ration is a characteristic that makes them highly favored. Having them anodized is always encouraged, more so if they are going to be constantly exposed. Another highly desired quality of the I beams is heightened fatigue resistance

An aluminum I beam can be produced via extrusion. It’s one of the easy ways to create the ‘I’ shape, since it is not as complex. Metal casting can be used, but this is often reserved for those more sophisticated shapes. The customer is expected to specify the designation of the aluminum I beam they want, together with the dimensions, and of course, the number of beams desired. A construction project could need a variable number of beams, so the company is contracted to keep producing them, so long as they are still needed. Whenever a customer is uncertain of what dimensions are necessary, most aluminum companies offer some kind of help. A metallurgist or engineer is often offered as a consultant, usually at no incurrence to the customer.

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