There are two basic types of hollow aluminum products. These are aluminum tubing and aluminum pipes. While they may appear similar at the first glance, they are actually very different products.
Aluminum piping is typically used just as you would use other pipes, to transport some type of liquid. This could include in heat exchanges, water systems and even in food processing and other types of industrial applications.
Aluminum tubing is used for building and structural applications. This could include framing for metal building, making the structural elements of a space ship or an airplane or in making lightweight, durable and long lasting furniture. It is also used in the automotive industry for a wide range of parts because of its strength and durability.
Differences in Tubing
There are different shapes of aluminum tubing including round, square or rectangular in various sizes and in various alloys. Unlike aluminum pipe, aluminum tubing is measured on the outside, not the inside, which is another important distinction between the two.
While aluminum tubing can be made of virtually any aluminum alloy, there are some basic alloys considered ideal for a variety of applications, especially in the aerospace industry.
Aluminum Alloys
Not surprisingly the versatile 6061 aluminum tubing is the most commonly used in aerospace structural designs as well as in a wide range of industries. As it is considered one of the easiest of the alloys to weld while maintaining corrosion resistance it is the go-to option for many applications.
With the addition of copper 2024 aluminum alloy tubing is very strong and has a high fatigue resistance. While it doesn’t have the natural corrosive resistance of the 6061 ally it can be clad to protect the underlying metal. It is important to note the 2024 is not considered weldable but does have an average rating for machinability.
Like 2024, 7075 aluminum tubing is not considered weldable. However, it makes up for this in strength, coming in with an ultimate strength of close to 50% higher than 6061. It is considered good for machinability and corrosion resistance, which makes it a popular choice in many aerospace applications.
Different companies offer different services for their customers buying aluminum tubing and other aluminum products. When you need testing and certification, heat treating, custom machining or specific plating options check with the company before placing your order to make sure these services are available.
As a producer of aerospace quality materials with AS9100 Rev. C certification, Aerotech Alloys can provide the aluminum tubing you need. For information on ordering, inventory and special services get in touch through our website at Aerotechalloys.com.
