Aluminum Density: What You Need to Know

by AMC


Posted on October 09, 2024 at 15:40 PM

 Aluminum Density

Aluminum is a silvery-white metal found on the periodic table, classified as a metal but exhibiting some unique properties that set it apart from other metals. In this section, we will explore the characteristics of aluminum, specifically its density, along with related topics.

Definition of Aluminum

Aluminum is a chemical element with the atomic number 13 and is represented by the symbol Al. It occurs naturally in its raw form and has a silvery-white appearance. This non-magnetic, soft, and ductile metal belongs to the boron group.

Additionally, aluminum makes up about 8% of the Earth's crust, making it the third most abundant element after oxygen and silicon, and the most plentiful metal in the Earth's crust.

The primary ore of aluminum is bauxite. This metal is highly reactive and is commonly found combined with over 270 different minerals. Aluminum exhibits resistance to corrosion through a process known as passivation, which, along with its low density, contributes to its wide range of applications.

Aluminum alloys are particularly important in the aerospace industry, as well as in the building and transportation sectors. Among the most common and useful compounds of aluminum are its oxides and sulfates.

What is Density?

Density is the measure of the relationship between an object's mass and the space it occupies (volume). This concept was first discovered by the Greek scientist Archimedes. To calculate density, we divide the mass of an object by its volume (D = m / v).

The standard unit for measuring density is kilograms per cubic meter (kg/m³). Understanding density is essential because it helps predict how a substance will behave when interacting with others.

For example, wood floats on water because its density is lower than that of water. Conversely, when a stone is thrown into water, it sinks due to its higher density compared to water.

Density and specific gravity are related concepts. Specific gravity is the ratio of the density of an object to the density of water. Additionally, as an object occupies more space, its density decreases.

Density of Aluminum

The density of aluminum is approximately 2,710 kg/m³. The density of aluminum alloys typically does not vary significantly from this value, generally falling between 2,640 kg/m³ and 2,810 kg/m³.

Amardeep Steel Center

Get Quotes on Aluminum Products and Grades

Aluminum Alloy Density

The density of aluminum is distinctive in several ways, making it a popular choice for various applications. Some of the key benefits of aluminum include:

  1. Lightweight: Aluminum has a low density, making it lightweight and easy to handle. This characteristic is especially beneficial in the aerospace industry, where reducing weight is crucial. Despite its lightweight nature, aluminum is strong and easy to shape, making it ideal for manufacturing.
  2. Resistance to Corrosion: Aluminum naturally forms a thin oxide layer on its surface, which protects the metal from air and moisture that can cause corrosion. This oxide layer enhances the metal's resistance to corrosion, making aluminum a reliable material for various applications.
  3. Recyclable: One of aluminum's most impressive properties is its ability to be recycled 100%. This makes aluminum an environmentally friendly option and helps conserve natural resources. The recycling process is cost-effective and does not compromise the quality or properties of the material.
  4. Electrical and Thermal Conductivity: In terms of weight, aluminum is twice as effective a conductor as copper. It is an excellent conductor of both heat and electricity, making it a common choice for major power transmission lines and other applications requiring efficient conductivity.

Physical Properties of Aluminum

Color and State Solid, nonmagnetic, non-lustrous, silvery-white with slight bluish tint.
Structure Aluminum has a face-centered cubic structure that is stable up to melting point.
Surface Aluminum surfaces can be highly reflective.
Hardness Commercially pure aluminum is soft. It is strengthened when alloyed and tempered.
Ductility High ductility. Aluminum can be beaten very thin.
Malleability High malleability. Aluminum is very capable of being shaped or bent.
Thermal Expansion Aluminum has a thermal expansion coefficient of 23.2. This is between zinc—which expands more—and steel, which expands half the range of aluminum.
Conductivity Good electrical and thermal conductor.
Corrosion Aluminum is corrosive resistant due to a self-protecting oxide layer.
Density Aluminum has a low density, measured by gravity in comparison to water, of 2.70. Compare this to the density of iron/steel which has a density of 7.87
Melting Point and Boiling Point Commercially pure aluminum has a melting point of approximately 1220°F and a boiling point of approximately 4,478°F. These change once aluminum is alloyed.

Properties of Aluminum

Aluminum is a pure metal that was discovered in the 19th century. It can be found in various minerals, including feldspar and cryolite. Most commonly, aluminum exists in the form of bauxite, which is its primary ore.

The atomic mass of aluminum is 26.98. It has a boiling point of 2,470°C and a melting point of 660.3°C.

Chemical Properties of Aluminum

  • Occurrence: Aluminum is primarily found as a compound in bauxite ore.
  • Oxidation: When exposed to moist air, aluminum combines with oxygen to form aluminum oxide.
  • Pyrophorus: In its powdered form, aluminum can easily catch fire when exposed to flame.
  • Ability to Form Alloys: There are hundreds of aluminum alloy compositions, with alloyed elements including iron, copper, manganese, silicon, magnesium, and zinc.
  • Reactivity with Water: Aluminum reacts quickly with hot water.
  • Reactivity with Alkalis: Aluminum is reactive with sodium hydroxide.
  • Reactivity with Acids: Aluminum reacts with hot acids.

Mechanical Properties of Aluminum

Elasticity in tension Aluminum has a Young’s modulus of 10000 ksi. Compare this to copper at 17550 ksi or wood at 1595 ksi.
Tensile strength ultimate 13,000 Psi
Yield strength 5,000 Psi
Bearing yield strength 23100 Psi
Elongation at break 15-28%
Shear Strength 9000 Psi
Fatigue strength 5000 Psi

Physical Properties of Aluminum

Property Description
Color and State Solid, non-magnetic, non-lustrous, silvery-white with a slight bluish tint.
Structure Aluminum has a face-centered cubic structure that remains stable up to its melting point.
Surface Aluminum surfaces can be highly reflective.
Hardness Commercially pure aluminum is soft, but it becomes stronger when alloyed and tempered.
Ductility High ductility; aluminum can be beaten very thin.
Malleability High malleability; aluminum is very capable of being shaped or bent.
Thermal Expansion Aluminum has a thermal expansion coefficient of 23.2, between zinc (expands more) and steel (expands half the range of aluminum).
Conductivity Good electrical and thermal conductor.
Corrosion Corrosion resistant due to a self-protecting oxide layer.
Density Low density, approximately 2.70, compared to iron/steel, which has a density of 7.87.
Melting Point and Boiling Point Melting point: ~1220°F; Boiling point: ~4,478°F (values change when alloyed).

Uses of Aluminum

Aluminum has a wide range of applications, including:

  • When combined with other metals like iron and copper, aluminum becomes exceptionally strong.
  • Its malleability, ductility, and lightweight nature make it ideal for use in car engines, kitchenware, airplane parts, and furniture.
  • Aluminum's resistance to corrosion makes it a suitable choice for handling chemicals and food products.
  • As an excellent conductor of heat, aluminum is commonly used in electrical equipment.
  • Aluminum forms compounds such as aluminum oxide, which are utilized in various industrial processes. Additionally, aluminum sulfate is used in water treatment, while aluminum chloride is employed in petroleum refining.

Contact Our Qualified Team Today

Amardeep Steel is a leading aluminum supplier in India, offering a diverse range of high-quality aluminum products. We are committed to providing you with the best aluminum products to meet your needs. Contact our qualified team today to learn more about our offerings.



Carbon Steel Properties
Carbon Steel Properties

Steel is one of the most widely used and essential metals for humanity. If you look around your home, you'll notice that many items contain some form of steel.

Medium-Carbon Steel Properties
Medium-Carbon Steel Properties

By carefully combining different elements, chemistry allows us to create variations of materials, enhancing some properties while reducing others.

Copper-Nickel Alloys: A Comprehensive Guide
Carbon Steel Flanges: Types, Grades, and Specifications

Carbon steel flanges play an essential role in piping systems, connecting pipes, valves, pumps, and other equipment .