Alloy powder

Aluminum alloy powder

Aluminum alloy powder, also called aluminum alloy particles, is an alloy which is made from an amalgamation of aluminum and other metals and has superior thermal, electrical and chemical properties. The powder is widely used in industries and products such as engineering plastics, sealants, adhesives, foam glass, coatings, 3D printing, surfacing layers and electric cells. The particles are also used as raw material for powder metallurgy.

Aluminum alloy powder can be made through various means. These include chemical processes, mechanical processes, and cryogenics. The powder can be produced from either virgin aluminum or recycled aluminum. Chemical processes can include atomization, gas and medium firing, or electro-disintegration. Mechanical processes can include grinding, hammer milling, and sifting. Cryogenics involves the use of liquid nitrous oxide or nitrogen, which induces crystallization of the alloys.

The main characteristics of aluminum alloy powder are its good strength, toughness and hardness. Its hardness, measured in Brinell scale, is in the range of 150 to 350. This is higher than that of the pure aluminum and makes the alloys suitable for different applications. In comparison, pure aluminum has a hardness of around 40. The high toughness and impact strength of the powder also makes it suitable for products where shock and abrasions are very common.

Another important characteristic of aluminum alloy powder is its color. While pure aluminum powder is gray, the alloys can be produced in different colors and shades. These colors depend on the chemical composition of the alloy, which may comprise aluminum, magnesium, calcium, manganese, nickel and chromium. Some of the common colors used in aluminum alloy powder include silver, blue, black, and yellow.

Aluminum alloy powder is an excellent thermal conductor, with a thermal conductivity of about 60 W/mK. Its good electrical conductivity makes it suitable for electrical and electronic components. Also, the powder does not corrode due to chemical reactions, thus providing a longer life to the product. The particles are relatively light in weight and can be used in applications requiring lightness.

There are certain health hazards associated with aluminum alloy powder when used in industries. In welding or grinding processes, tiny particles are released which can enter the lungs of workers and cause health problems such as irritation and breathing problems. To reduce this risk, proper equipment such as masks and gloves must be used.

In conclusion, aluminum alloy powder is an useful material used in a wide range of industries. It has excellent physical, chemical and thermal properties and is produced in various colors. However, it must be handled correctly to avoid health hazards.