ADI Metal is a leading distributor of marine grade products, specifically marine grade aluminum. The marine industry relies on these materials to withstand the highly corrosive environment in saltwater. Therefore, the importance of using superior-quality marine metal products is paramount to the safety and durability of any marine vessel.
Salt is present not only in seawater but also in the air, which is carried by waves and sea spray. It means that all exposed metal surfaces on a vessel are at risk of oxidation, corrosion, and rusting, which can be prevented if marine grade aluminum is used during the construction of these vessels. That said, let’s understand what sets it apart from its counterparts, its properties, and additional applications.
What is Marine Grade Aluminum?
In the marine industry, structural steel is commonly used in shipbuilding. However, bigger yet lightweight ships are in demand, so alternatives are required. Aluminum is an excellent metal since it’s lighter than its counterparts but remains comparable in strength.
Marine grade aluminum or aluminum alloys come in different grades, depending on the primary alloying element added to the metal and its ability to respond to mechanical and thermal treatment. Each has varying properties that make them stand out due to the alloys added.
Commonly Used Marine Aluminum Grades and Their Applications
The most commonly used grades include:
Al-Si Alloys
Al-Si alloys are a combination of aluminum and silicon, and the most popular examples are 413.0 and 443.0. They stand out because they’re highly fluid, weldable, and castable. They’re also moderately strong, making them ideal for numerous marine applications.
Common applications of Al-Si alloys include:
- Heat exchangers
- Cylinder blocks and pistons for engines
- Gearboxes and transmission cases
Al-Mg Alloys
Aluminum-magnesium alloys are known to be more challenging to cast compared to other marine grade aluminum materials. These are also not heat-treatable, but their corrosion resistance is remarkable. Additionally, these materials are best suited for manufacturing parts constantly exposed to saltwater.
Other Al-Mg alloys, such as 5052, 5083, 5754 and 5086 are not heat-treatable. However, they’re easily weldable with the same superior corrosion resistance. Overall, this grade can handle cryogenic temperatures and is strain-hardenable, such as marine grade aluminum tubing.
Applications of Al-Mg alloys:
- Marine aluminum tubing fittings
- Free-from and drop-forged parts
- Submarines and warships
Al-Mg-Si Alloys
Examples of Aluminum-magnesium-silicon alloys are 6061, 6063, and 6111. These types of materials are predominantly used due to their excellent finishing characteristics. It also has some decorative and structural properties, which makes it a perfect option for interior and exterior marine projects.
Common applications of Al-Mg-Si alloys include:
- Marine fuselages and wing structures
- Boat hulls and decks
- Train and aircraft bodies
What are the Benefits of Using Aluminum in Marine Applications?
Marine grade aluminum is vital in the marine sector due to its irrefutable benefits that allow for more efficient marine operations, preventing accidents, and reducing maintenance costs. Apart from being lightweight and its incredible corrosion resistance, it has other advantages, such as:
- Easy to repair: These marine metal products are easy to fix since the damaged area can be cut out and replaced with a new piece of aluminum.
- Versatile: Since marine grade aluminum has diverse properties, this material is versatile and can be incorporated into different marine applications.
- Cost-effective: Although aluminum’s cost is expensive, it becomes a cost-productive material in the long run because of its low maintenance needs.
Use the Right Marine Metal Product for Your Marine Projects
With aluminum being a critical component commonly found in stressful conditions and harsh environments where corrosion resistance is imperative, it’s no surprise that marine grade aluminum is the marine industry’s number one choice. At ADI Metal, we specialize in these materials specifically made for rigorous marine applications.
Our team can provide expert advice and help you select the best marine metal product for your project needs. Contact us today to learn more about our comprehensive product selection. Request a quote, and we can find a cost-effective solution based on your specifications and requirements.