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Aluminum and Duralumin are two commonly used metallic materials, but they have significant differences in composition, properties, and applications.
Aluminium :
Composition:- Aluminum is a pure chemical element, symbolized by Al, and is found in the periodic table under atomic number 13.
Properties:
- Light: Aluminum is very light, with a density of about 2.7 g/cm³.
- Malleable: Easy to work and shape, it can be transformed into sheets, wires or complex shapes.
- Corrosion resistant: It naturally forms a protective oxide layer that prevents corrosion.
- Conductor of heat and electricity: It is a good thermal and electrical conductor, although less so than copper.
- Recyclable: Aluminum is 100% recyclable with no loss of quality.
Applications:
- Used in packaging (cans, aluminum foil), construction (windows, facades), transportation (car bodies, airplanes), and electronics (housing, radiators).
Duralumin
Composition:
- THE Duralumin is an alloy of aluminum with mainly copper (about 4%), manganese (0.5 to 1%), magnesium (0.5 to 1%) and sometimes silicon.
Properties:
- More resistant: Thanks to the addition of copper and other elements, the Duralumin is much stronger than pure aluminum.
- Light: While being stronger, it remains relatively light, although slightly denser than pure aluminum.
- Good mechanical resistance: The addition of copper improves tensile strength and hardness.
- Corrosion: Less resistant to corrosion than pure aluminum due to the presence of copper, it often requires a protective coating.
- Heat treatability: Can be heat treated to further improve its mechanical properties.
Applications:
- Mainly used in the aeronautical industry for aircraft structures (fuselages, wings) due to its excellent strength/weight ratio.
- Also used in sports equipment (bicycle frames, golf clubs), and some high-performance automotive parts.
Comparison of Materials:
| Property | Aluminum | Duralumin |
|---|---|---|
| Composition | To (pure) | Al, Cu, Mg, Mn, Si |
| Density | 2,7 g/cm³ | Environ 2,8-2,9 g/cm³ |
| Mechanical resistance | Moderate | High |
| Corrosion resistance | Very good | Less good |
| Heat treatability | Do not | Yes |
| Thermal conductivity | High | Moderate |
| Main applications | Packaging, construction, electronics | Aeronautics, sports equipment |
When equipping your 4x4 for off-road adventures, protecting its underside is essential. The materials commonly used for these Skid Plate are aluminum and DuraluminHere's a look at the pros and cons of each to help you make the best choice.
Aluminum
Advantages:
- Lightness: With a density of only 2.7 g/cm³, aluminum doesn't add much weight to your vehicle, which can improve handling and fuel efficiency.
- Corrosion resistance: Aluminum forms a protective oxide layer, making it ideal for the wet and muddy conditions frequently encountered during off-road riding.
- Ease of work: Its malleability makes it easy to shape according to the specific needs of your vehicle.
Disadvantages:
- Moderate mechanical resistance: Pure aluminum can deform more easily under heavy impacts compared to stronger alloys.
Duralumin
Advantages:
- Increased resistance: THE Duralumin, an aluminum alloy with copper, magnesium, and manganese, offers much higher mechanical strength than pure aluminum. This means better protection against shocks and impacts when driving off-road.
- Optimal strength-to-weight ratio: Although somewhat denser than pure aluminum, Duralumin remains relatively light while offering increased robustness.
Disadvantages:
- Less resistant to corrosion: Due to the presence of copper, the Duralumin is more likely to corrode without a protective treatment or coating.
- Cost: THE Duralumin may be more expensive than pure aluminum due to its improved composition and properties.
Conclusion :
For the Skid Plate 4x4 lowers, the choice between aluminum and Duralumin depends on your priorities. If you are looking for a lightweight and corrosion-resistant solution, aluminum is an excellent choice. On the other hand, if strength and impact resistance are your main concerns, the Duralumin, although slightly more expensive and requiring anti-corrosion treatment, offers superior protection.
Whichever you choose, ensuring the underside of your 4x4 is protected is crucial for a successful and worry-free off-road adventure.
Buy now the Skid Plate Almont4wd which are all made in Duralumin therefore offering you the Skid Plate the most resistant on the European market.