Aluminum vs. Copper
Aluminum and copper are two of the most commonly used materials around the world. The two materials are used for a variety of different applications, from electrical wiring to car radiators and much more. While copper may be the more popular material, aluminum is becoming increasingly utilized for a variety of applications, due to its lighter weight, strength and heat resistance. Here, we discuss the similarities and differences between aluminum and copper and compare them in regards to their use cases and applications.
The most obvious difference between aluminum and copper is their respective weights, as aluminum is roughly three times lighter than copper. This makes aluminum ideal for applications that place a lot of emphasis on weight, such as in the construction of aeroplanes and other lightweight machinery. This advantage in weight is also a major benefit to electrical wire, as aluminum is much easier to transport and handle than copper.
Heat resistance is another factor that sets aluminum and copper apart. While copper can withstand temperatures up to 2000 degrees Celsius, aluminum is even more resistant to heat, withstanding up to 2500 degrees Celsius. This makes aluminum ideal for applications such as cooking tools and insulation, as it wont crack and melt under the pressure of high temperatures like some other materials do.
Strength is an important factor when comparing aluminum and copper. While copper is a relatively strong material, aluminum is the stronger of the two and can be formed into a variety of shapes with relative ease. Aluminum also has the advantage of being highly malleable, meaning it can withstand more force before breaking than copper. This makes it a great choice for applications such as car parts, as it is less likely to dent or break under impact.
With regards to electrical conductivity, copper remains the material of choice, as it has a much higher electrical current rating than aluminum. This means that copper is better suited to applications such as wiring and electronics, where a high level of conductivity is required. Aluminum’s relatively low electrical conductivity also means it is not suitable for applications that require high levels of power.
Overall, both aluminum and copper are great materials for a variety of applications. Copper is the preferred choice for electrical wiring and power, as it has superior electrical conductivity and is more resilient to corrosion. Aluminum is lighter in weight and better at withstanding heat and impact, making it the go-to material for lightweight and heat-intensive applications such as cooking tools. With its diverse range of advantages, aluminum has become a popular choice for many different uses.
