Introduction
At Midtherm Laser, we laser cut and form various grades and finishes of aluminium. Aluminium is a versatile material due to its low weight and corrosion resistance. This makes it suitable for applications across many industries.
Have a read below as we explain the aluminium grades we process and how they may be suitable for your next project.
Why Choose Aluminium?
Aluminium offers several advantages:
- Lightweight compared with steel.
- Naturally corrosion resistant and does not rust because it contains no iron.
- Suitable for indoor and outdoor applications.
- Available in a range of finishes and colours.
- Provides an excellent strength-to-weight ratio.
Aluminium is commonly used for engineering components, automotive applications where reducing weight is essential, architectural features and decorative projects.
Can Aluminium Be Laser Cut?
Aluminium is laser cut using nitrogen assist gas. Nitrogen cutting produces a clean, bright edge without oxidation. Edge striations may be visible on thicker gauge material, but this is normal for laser cut plate.
Our cutting tolerances are ±0.25mm on all materials, including aluminium.
We cut:
- 1050 aluminium from 0.5mm to 2mm.
- 5083 aluminium from 3mm up to 25mm thick.
5251 and 6082 aluminium can also be cut, although these are non-stock grades and are quoted subject to availability.
1050 Aluminium
1050 is a relatively soft grade that forms easily. Customers commonly choose it for thin gauge material and applications that require bending.
5251 Aluminium
Although 5251 is a non-stock grade, we can supply and laser cut it subject to availability.
5083 Aluminium
5083 is one of the most popular grades we process. Customers typically use it from 3mm thickness upwards because it offers excellent corrosion resistance and forms well.
Customers often select 5083 for thicker gauges, and we regularly supply it in 20mm, 25mm and 30mm thicknesses.
6082 Aluminium
6082 is a high-strength structural grade. Although it cuts well, it is considerably harder than other grades and can crack during bending. For this reason, we do not form 6082 components.
Finishes
The finish of aluminium can vary from standard mill finish to dull polished finishes and patterned sheets. Some of these are non-stock or can be cut free issued by the customer. We regularly cut and form aluminium chequer plate (also known as tread plate).
Conclusion
Thank you for taking the time to read Aluminium Grades Explained. If you would like a quotation for your aluminium laser cutting or forming requirements, please contact our sales department below.
