The Production of Aluminium
Aluminium is one of the most commonly used metals in the world, with a wide range of uses in construction, transport, electronics, and numerous other industries. Although aluminium has been used in some form or another since ancient times, the modern production of aluminium as a metal has only really taken place over the last 150 years or so.
The modern process begins with the extraction of bauxite ore, which is mined from the earth wherever it is found. Bauxite contains a high level of aluminium oxide, which is what is used to create aluminium, and usually also contains various other materials such as silica, iron oxide and titanium dioxide.
Once sufficient bauxite is extracted, it can be processed. The processing of bauxite requires it to be put through an electrolysis process to reduce the ore into a pure form of aluminium oxide. This process is typically completed in large furnaces, where an electric current is passed through the ore to break it down. Once broken down, the oxides which remain can then be heated in a kiln. The heat reduces them further into a more usable form of aluminium, which is known as aluminium ingot.
Now that proper form of aluminium has been created, it is ready to be used in many ways. The most common use is to cast it into a range of shapes and sizes and then use it in the production of various products. This can be done in various ways, and often begins with the shaping of the aluminium into very thin sheets or wires. Once shaped, the aluminium can be used for various processes such as forging, extruding or rolling.
Forging is a common process for creating products such as door frames out of aluminium. The metal is heated up until it is malleable, before being placed between two die or moulds. As it is pressed, the shape is created, and then allowed to cool and solidify.
Extruding also involves heating up aluminium until it is malleable, before pushing it through a shaped die and allowing it to cool and solidify. The result is a product with a defined shape and integrity.
Rolling is also a common process and involves passing aluminium between two rollers. The rollers create a sheet of metal, which can then be used in any number of ways.
Once in its final form, aluminium can be used in many ways. It is so versatile that it is used in almost everything from aeroplanes to food packaging.
Aluminium is incredibly popular due to its incredible strength, weight, malleability and corrosion resistant properties. It has become an integral part of the construction industry, with aluminium beams and frames becoming increasingly popular in both residential and commercial buildings. It is also used in almost all forms of transport, from cars and boats to planes and trains.
Aluminium is also used extensively in the electronics industry, with computers and other technology using the light yet durable metal to create their products.
In summary, aluminium has become an integral part of modern life. Its production begins with the extraction of bauxite ore, which is then processed to create aluminium oxide. This oxide is then reduced further, before being cast into various shapes and sizes. Finally, the aluminium is used in a range of different industries, due to its strength, weight and corrosion-resistant properties.
