Aluminum Flat Bar

Why Choose Flat Bar Aluminum?

Flat bars are commonly made through the process of extrusion. During this process, the aluminum is pushed through a die that is under pressure. As the material is pushed through, the desired shape is made. The shape is cooled, and other processes, including stretching, milling, and cutting, are used to achieve the final product.

Aluminum is a popular material, offering an excellent strength-to-weight ratio, versatility, and adaptability to fit many applications. Weighing in at one-third of the weight of steel, this metal type can be forged to meet or surpass the strength of steel. Unlike other metals, this material can be infinitely recycled or reused, minimizing waste.

Aluminum Flat Bar Grades

Flat bar aluminum comes in several different grades. The choice of alloy depends on factors such as strength requirements, machinability, corrosion resistance, and cost considerations.

The 2024 aluminum flat bar is non-magnetic and heat-treatable, offering high fatigue resistance. While it is less corrosion-resistant in its base form, this grade can be anodized to improve its resistance. This grade is commonly found in many aerospace applications.

The 6061 aluminum flat bar is a versatile, commonly used structural grade offering excellent corrosion resistance, good workability, and machinability. It offers higher yield strength than the 6063 grade. 6061 performs well when subjected to different processing techniques such as drilling, bending, and production cutting.

With its high strength-to-weight ratio, this grade is ideal for structural and fabrication projects where low weight is a priority. Other applications include medical assemblies, aircraft construction, and structural components.

The 6063 aluminum flat bar, also known as the architectural grade, is lightweight and offers relatively high tensile strength. This grade is utilized in a broad range of ornamental applications, including trim work and screens, and the 6063 grade does not have a higher yield strength than the 6061.

The 7075 aluminum flat bar is the strongest aluminum (comparable to many steels) while retaining aluminum’s low weight and resistance to corrosion. It is often used for high-stress parts in aerospace, military, and automotive applications.

Aluminum Flat Bar Applications

Aluminum flat bars, also known as aluminum flat stock or aluminum bar stock, find a wide range of applications across various industries and projects due to their versatile properties. Some typical applications for aluminum flat bars include:

Architectural Trim and Detailing – Aluminum flat bars are used in architectural projects for edging, trim, and detailing to provide clean and sleek lines in buildings and structures.

Frame Construction – They are employed in frame construction for windows, doors, and lightweight structures due to their lightweight yet durable nature.

Machinery Components – Aluminum flat bars manufacture machinery components and structural supports, where their lightweight and corrosion-resistant properties are advantageous.

Heat Sinks – Aluminum flat bars serve as effective heat sinks, dissipating excess heat from electronic components and LED lighting fixtures.

Marine and Boating – Due to their corrosion resistance, aluminum flat bars are suitable for marine applications, including boat hardware, hull bracing, and railing systems.

Transportation Industry – They are utilized in the transportation industry for the fabrication of truck and trailer components and in railway and aviation applications.

Display and Signage – Aluminum flat bars are used to construct signs, display boards, and exhibition stands, offering a durable and attractive solution for various advertising and promotional purposes.

Shelving and Storage – Aluminum flat bars are employed to construct lightweight and corrosion-resistant shelving and storage racks for industrial and commercial use.

Support Brackets – Used as support brackets in various applications, providing structural stability in building construction and engineering projects.

Electrical and Electronic Enclosures – Aluminum flat bars are utilized in electrical enclosures and equipment housings due to their conductivity and corrosion resistance.

Aerospace Applications – In the aerospace industry, aluminum flat bars are used to fabricate aircraft components and structural elements due to their lightweight and high strength-to-weight ratio.

When selecting aluminum flat bars, consider dimensions (width, thickness, and length), alloy choice, surface finish, and any specific industry or regulatory standards that apply to your application. Speak with a reputable aluminum supplier such as Metal Supermarkets for help choosing the right aluminum flat bar for your needs.