Different Grades of Aluminum Explained: What to Ask Your Supplier?

Aluminum is one of the most versatile metals. While stainless steel steals the limelight for its usefulness, there is no better choice than aluminum when it comes to lightweight metal requirements. This is one of the reasons why it is widely used in the aerospace and automotive industries.

While aluminum has different uses, what are you using it for? Are you an industrialist sourcing it for manufacturing? Are you a homeowner sourcing it for your home? Are you an artist, sourcing it for your artistic endeavors, or are you a DIY enthusiast who wants to experiment with aluminum?

Your answer will decide which grade of aluminum is right for you.

We can help you with multiple aluminum grades at New Mexico Metals LLC, Albuquerque. We are the best aluminum supplier in Albuquerque, and after reading this blog, you will learn why.

Aluminum 1000 Series

The Aluminum 1000 series has some common grades, such as Grade 1050 and Grade 1100. The specialty of this series is that it is 99% pure aluminum; thus, it is the softest and most malleable aluminum series. It is used in applications where high corrosion resistance and workability are required. However, it is not the most durable grade.

Popular Applications

  • Heat Exchangers
  • Chemical food processing equipment
  • Light aluminum sheet metal works

Aluminum 2000 Series

This series is known for its high strength-to-weight ratio. Copper is the main alloying element, offering this series the strength it boasts. It has two major grades- Grades 2011 and Grades 2024. Grade 2011 has up to 94% aluminum, 5-6% copper, and other metals such as Iron, Bismuth, Magnesium, Lead, etc. On the other hand, Grade 2024 has up to 94.7% aluminum, 3-4% copper, and other elements such as Manganese, magnesium, Iron, Titanium, etc.

This series is known for its high strength, but its corrosion resistance isn’t as much as the 1000 series.

Popular Applications

  • Automotive Industry
  • Aerospace Industry
  • Truck Wheels

Aluminum 3000 Series

This series is known for its moderate strength and corrosion resistance. It has Manganese as a primary alloying element. The popular grades are Grade 3003 and Grade 3105. This series also has a higher aluminum content, up to 99%. Grade 3003 has 1% manganese, 97-99% aluminum and other elements. Grade 3105 has up to 98% aluminum with varied quantities of Manganese, Magnesium, copper, Iron, and Silicon.

This series is known for excellent corrosion resistance and workability, making it a popular choice for general-purpose applications.

Popular Applications

  • Kitchen equipment
  • Roofing and siding
  • Chemical handling

Aluminum 5000 Series

This series has magnesium as the primary alloying element. Its most popular grade is Grade 5052, known for its excellent corrosion resistance, particularly in marine environments. This grade is also very easy to weld, making it a go-to choice for industrial and marine applications.

Popular Applications

  • Marina applications
  • Fuel tanks
  • Pressure vessels

Questions to Ask Your Suppliers

When you visit New Mexico Metals LLC, we assure you that you will find all the answers to your questions.

The most popular questions that we receive and the ones you should ask are:

What is the intended use of the aluminum?

Aluminum is used in a wide range of industries, from kitchenware to aerospace. We advise that you explain to us the exact conditions and uses for which you are sourcing the aluminum so we can assist you in selecting the right grade.

Are all the aluminum grades excellent in corrosion resistance?

No, the Aluminum 1000 series is a pure commercial alloy with excellent corrosion resistance. Some other grades offer the same, while others might require additional treatment to improve corrosion resistance.

Which Aluminum grades are great for weldability?

Grade 3003, 5052, 5083, 5454, 6061, 6063, etc., are some of the bests at weldability. Grade 1100 is also easy to mold, but it is not heat-treatable due to its soft nature.

Do you offer standardization certificates for aluminum?

This is something only the best aluminum supplier can offer. At New Mexico Metals LLC, we deal in retail and wholesale; thus, we understand the industry requirements. So, we offer only standardized metals.

How much do aluminum costs differ for different grades?

The aluminum grades differ based on their properties. The 2000 series, 6000 series, and 7000 series are among the most expensive grades, as they offer excellent strength-to-weight ratio, corrosion resistance, and great performance.

Final Words

Aluminum is a delicate metal, and it is quite easily available. However, it can drastically affect your projects if you don’t choose the right grade.

To a layman, all aluminum grades might look similar. Thus, you must rely on an aluminum supplier who has the experience and knowledge and houses the best aluminum grades discussed above.

At New Mexico Metals LLC, Albuquerque, we house different aluminum grades you might need. Apart from that, we also offer a wide range of other metals and line products.

For any metal needs, contact us today!