Category Archive: Uncategorized

Aluminum’s Critical Role In The Aviation Industry

Day in and day out, 1.73 million people travel by airplane in the United States. They fly on one of the nation’s 212,335 commercial aircraft, or — in some cases — on one of the additional 7,628 private aircraft or aircraft for-hire. Just about all of these aircraft have one thing in common: they are constructed out of aluminum and aluminum metal composites.

For decades, aluminum has been the material of choice for those in the aviation and aerospace industries. How did that happen, and why does aluminum remain so prominent in the aircraft industry today?

The First Airplanes

The Wright Brothers famously built the first powered aircraft and flew it in 1903. Even then, the Wright Brothers had enough foresight and knowledge to use a lightweight aluminum engine and other aluminum aircraft parts. The frame and exterior of the plane, however, were made from bamboo, spruce, and fabric. These materials were inefficient, even back then. However, at the time, access to aluminum and thin sheet metals was highly limited and the aluminum that was available was extremely costly — more than the Wright Brothers could afford.

For years, and particularly before World War I, many aircraft continued being built primarily out of wood. Wood failed to live up to expectations. Aircraft made out of wood did not get as much speed and lift as hoped. Most critically, it posed a serious safety hazard. Wooden aircraft had the potential to rot. If it did, the strength of the material often failed during flight, causing crashes and fatalities.

During World War I, aircraft designer Hugo Junker built an airplane entirely out of metal. This trend continued throughout World War I and into World War II.

Why Aluminum?

Today, nearly one third — or 27% — of all aluminum is purchased and utilized by the transport industry. Why is aluminum the preferred material?

Now, aluminum and select metal composites (combined metals) are relatively inexpensive, predictable, and strong. Manufacturers can rely on thin metal strips of aluminum to be lightweight and support the weight of an aircraft. For example, 6061 aluminum is pliable and resistant to corrosion, making it ideal for airplanes’ fuselages and wings.

Plus, aluminum holds up well in extreme weather conditions and against extreme heat. Its lightweight not only makes it optimal for maximum lift but also for fuel efficiency and using as little fuel as possible to cut down on costs and reduce emissions.

The Types Of Aluminum Most Commonly Used In Aircraft

In addition to several different types of aluminum, aluminum composites are also very common in aircraft construction. Some of the most popular ones include 6061 Aluminum, 2024 Aluminum, 3003 Aluminum, Aluminum 5052, and Aluminum 7075.

There are pros and cons with each type of aluminum or aluminum alloy. For example, 6061 Aluminum is more flexible and pliable. 2024 Aluminum is stronger, but that increased strength comes with more rigidity. 3003 Aluminum is extremely workable, making it the ideal material for aircraft cowl (the metal covering an airplane’s engine) and its baffle plate or engine baffle, the structure that keeps air flowing and the plane operating at a safe temperature.

While flying, many of us may not consider the thousands upon thousands of pieces of metal that make up the aircraft. In reality, that metal keeps aircraft safely flying, safely in the air, and safely at an optimal temperature. Aluminum is such a versatile — yet reliable — material it is also commonly found in medical equipment and on space shuttles and spacecraft as well.

5 Characteristics that Make Copper Sheet Metal Prime for Industrial Production

When selecting the type of sheet metal that suits your purpose best, you have to consider the characteristics of the metal carefully. Sheet metal is one of the most important materials, and its application spreads across many industries such as aviation, manufacturing, mining, construction, farming, and shipping. The growth of the sheet metal market is expanding globally, and the growth is expected to continue rising at an average rate of 4.09% from 2018 to 2022.

Sheet metal is made from aluminum, copper and brass, stainless steel, titanium, nickel, and tin. Copper sheet metal is one of the most common types of metal used in electrical appliances, construction, and most domestic appliances. Before you go looking for copper sheet metal for sale, consider the following characteristics of copper that will guide you on its usage.

1. High Electrical Conductivity

For electrical manufacturers, what they need more than copper is high-quality copper. As such, copper sheet metal is usually in high demand among manufacturers of electrical equipment such as microchips, electromagnets, heat sinks, welding electrodes, and circuit boards. The manufacturers of these electrical products are the highest consumers of copper sheet metal for sale. The thermal conductivity of copper makes it one of the most useful materials in the manufacture of all high-end electronics.

2. Easily Recycled and Reused

Copper sheet metal is easily recycled without losing most of its quality. It is estimated that more than 40% of the new metal produced is recycled. For combined metals, copper is the highest percentage of material used. The fact that most of the copper used is recycled and reused makes copper sheet metal for sale more affordable as compared to the other types of metal.

3. High Resistance to Corrosion

Copper has the lowest reactivity rate. It does not react with water and acids, and copper oxide slows down its reaction with oxygen. The only other metals that have a slower reactivity rate than copper are precious metals. However, precious metals are too expensive to be utilized for industrial production. Gas and fuel companies, alongside electrical companies, are big buyers of copper sheet metal for sale. As copper does not react with water and acid, it makes copper sheet metal the go-to material for manufacturing conduit pipes, sewerage, and water pipes.

4. Copper is More Flexible

Copper sheet metal bends and stretches easily, making it suitable for industrial production. Therefore, copper sheet metal is used to manufacture equipment in all sizes and shapes. Additionally, because it is soft and malleable, it is easy to roll it into many different designs. This makes it applicable for decorative purposes besides its main industrial use.

5. Copper Impedes Growth of Bacteria

Since copper is biostatic, bacteria will not grow and multiply on it. As such, you will not see mold growing on copper metal sheets and on equipment made from copper. This quality makes copper sheet metal a useful material in the manufacture of marine hardware.

Copper sheet metal is one of the most useful material on the globe. From the fridge in your room to the computers in your workplace, copper sheet metal is utilized in their production. The demand for copper is high around the globe, and it helps that most of the used copper can be recycled and repurposed. Before buying copper sheet metal, you have to be clear of its use so that you utilize it optimally. It would be best if you also bought copper sheet metal from a trusted metal dealer or supplier so that you get the best quality.

Applications For Thin Aluminum Strips in the Automotive Industry

Aluminum plays a crucial role in the automotive industry. In fact, around $30 billion in revenue in the United States is generated from sheet metal alone. This metal along with other combined metals has a variety of applications for many components. Here are the main industrial applications for thin aluminum strips in the automotive industry.

Insulation

Aluminum thin sheet metal has barrier and heat reflective properties that are beneficial for the automotive industry. It’s corrosion-resistant and can be used in electrical cables to insulate against moisture. Aluminum can also act as an insulator against radio frequency and magnetic emissions with electrical cables. When used as a sheath for fiber optic cables, the thin aluminum strips use its electrical conductivity for integrity testing of cable links. It can also act as a firewall for vehicle doors to stop oxygen that can fan flames.

Heat Exchangers

Aluminum has gradually replaced copper and brass for the use of heat exchangers. This metal is lighter in weight, which can help reduce emissions from a car’s radiator and lowers fuel demands. A car with aluminum components can save 15% in fuel costs than one made from steel components. Standard air conditioning equipment also uses thin metal strips of aluminum for the finning in the heat exchanger. Being able to keep a car’s cooling systems running efficiently ensures the vehicle’s longevity, resulting in higher customer satisfaction.

Additional Automotive Applications

Aluminum is also used in various other automotive components such as catalytic converters and impact energy absorption structures. It is often used in the electric vehicle market because its light weight provides an increased driving range. Almost every part of an automobile can benefit from the properties that aluminum provides. Aluminum gives vehicles better handling, braking, and acceleration capabilities. It also allows manufacturers to mold the vehicle in any shape they choose for maximum performance

The potential use for thin aluminum strips in the automotive industry is endless. New uses are being discovered every day to help make cars safer and more efficient. To find out more on how aluminum can be used in the automotive industry, contact Thin Metal Sales today!

What Makes Mill Test Reports So Important to Your Business?

Mill test reports provide essential information to all kinds of businesses operating within the combined metals industry. Mill Test Reports are used to measure quality assurance in the manufacturing and distribution of combined metals. These reports play an important role in nearly every aspect of the industry. But what makes mill test reports so important to your business? Here are a few things to take into account for your next mill test report.

Meeting Specifications Guarantees Quality

When you work with thin sheet metal, stainless steel, or aluminum of any kind, then you must be certain that you’re providing customers with materials that meet their specifications. As a matter of fact, this is the very reason that mill test reports exist in the first place. If suppliers are not able to meet the needs of their customers by proving their value through a positive mill test report, then it’s reasonable to assume that their time in the combined metals industry is limited. Whether you’re looking at heat codes, material grades, mechanical properties, or any other aspect of the mill test report, it’s crucial that you do your part to meet the specifications outlined by the industry. This is the only way you can assure all of your clients and customers that work is to be trusted.

Inspections Demonstrate Commitment to Excellence

The primary metals most often purchased by consumers include aluminum in a bar, tube, sheet, or plate form; hot or cold rolled steel; and stainless steel. With so many different types of combined metals to keep track of, clients want to know that you’re doing your part to ensure quality. With accurate mill test reports, you not only demonstrate your commitment to your clients’ satisfaction, but you also demonstrate your commitment to excellence within the industry. The right approach to mill test reports can lead to much more growth and business further down the line, as well.

Are you in need of more common metals such as copper and brass? Do you need something a bit more specific like 6061 aluminum? Do you have questions about how you can find the best combined metals on the market at fair and affordable rates? Well, all you have to do is reach out today and get in touch with a member of our team. At Thin Metal Sales, our team of experienced combined metals professionals is here to provide you with answers and guidance on your next purchase of aluminum, stainless steel, thin metal strips, or any other type of combined metal that you may need for your next big project. Contact us today for more information.

How to Find the Right Aluminum Supplier for Your Next Major Project

No matter how long you’ve been in an industry that makes use of combined metals, it can present a whole new set of challenges when it comes time to find an aluminum supplier for your next big project. The metal fabrication industry is enormous after all — it’s projected to grow by 9% from the year 2016 to the year 2026. Fortunately, we’ve put together this simple list for when you find yourself trying to find the right aluminum supplier for your next big project.

Look for Good Reviews

Just like you probably wouldn’t want to take your car to a new mechanic or try out a new restaurant without a strong recommendation, you should never go into a deal with an aluminum supplier that you haven’t received some reviews and information about. Sure, it may be tempting to jump into business with the first supplier you may happen to come across, but a lot of times this is a shortcut to certain disaster. Instead, it’s far more preferable to find some reviews from previous customers. It’s even better if you can locate recommendations from people who operate in a similar or adjacent industry to your own. This way, you can be certain that the aluminum supplier has inventory and procedures that will make working with them that much easier.

Explore All of Your Options

Even if you think you’ve found the perfect aluminum supplier for your next big project, it doesn’t hurt to explore all available options before you commit. Let’s say you’re looking for mass quantities of aluminum for an upcoming project. Even if you’re able to find a supplier that specializes in aluminum, you may be forgetting that there are other suppliers out there who may be able to offer you even better prices while also giving you access to other combined metals such as thin steel sheets, 6061 aluminum, copper brass, and much more. While you may not need those other types of combined metals for your next project, it’s a good idea to consider just how helpful it may be for your future to establish a relationship with a supplier who can get you deals on other materials that you may need. Keeping your options in mind is always advisable, no matter how much you think you’ve found the right supplier for the job at hand.

Consider Customer Service

It’s all too common for consumers in all industries to put up with poor customer service. When it comes to combined metals, things aren’t much different. When an aluminum supplier has poor customer service, this often makes things that much more complex and frustrating for everyone involved. If you’re working with a certain supplier and they’re not treating you with the utmost respect and courtesy, then that’s usually a sign of even further problems that exist with the supplier. Rather than settling for mediocre or poor customer service, it’s far preferable to seek out a company that will take your ideas into account and provide exceptional customer service.

If you’re looking for an aluminum supplier for your next major project, Thin Metal Sales is here to help. We take pride in our products and guarantee an excellent variety of combined metals. Contact us today for more information or to get started on placing your first order.

How to Find the Right Metal Supplier for Your Next Project

When you’re looking for combined metals for your next big project, it pays to find a company that you know you can trust. Sure, you could always type something like “metal sales near me” into your favorite search engine, but how can you know that the companies that pop up are going to be worth your time and money? Here are a few simple tips to keep in mind when you’re trying to find the right combined metals supplier for your next project.

Don’t underestimate the value of good customer service

Time and time again people make the mistake of undermining the value of customer service. If a metal supplier takes your ideas and opinions into account, then that is often an excellent sign of their products’ quality. Why is that? Well, often times a metal supplier who knows the industry has experience dealing with a diverse range of customers and clients. If they navigate project discussions in a way that’s favorable to the customer, then chances are that they have confidence in their service. Anyone who searches “metal sales near me” would be wise to consider the important role that customer service plays when choosing a combined metals supplier.

Think about finding a supplier who knows your industry</h3

Knowing your market is key, whether you are taking on your first major project, or undertaking a routine project. Anyone who has found themselves searching something such as “metal sales near me” knows just how difficult it can be to locate a metal supplier who is familiar with all the ins and outs of your particular industry. However, this means it’s that much more important to spend the time necessary to select a company who will really understand your detailed specifications.

If you’re in the aerospace industry, then you’re well aware that you don’t want to just choose the first metal supplier you happen to come across. Doing so is a great way to find yourself with a lackluster product that doesn’t measure up to the standards of your project. Instead, it’s far more preferable to take a little more time discussing your project with potential metal suppliers. In fact, asking around within your industry isn’t a bad option. Once you find a metal supplier that seems adequate, call them up and ask about their experience in working with companies whose projects share similar qualities to yours. Even if you want to give a new company a chance, it’s often far more reliable to go with a company who knows how to service your particular needs.

Consider the company’s reputation

In a growing industry, reputation is critical. After all, did you know that according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the metal fabrication industry is projected to add 12,000 jobs to the sector over this decade? Are there other companies in your industry who can vouch for a supplier’s quality? What do past clients have to say about the supplier? These questions are quite valuable as you search for the right supplier. If you’re not sure how to locate this information, then go online and read some past customer reviews. Alternatively, you can speak to representatives from people in your industry or adjacent industries to get a sense of a metal supplier’s reputation. When you’re dealing with such expensive and time-sensitive projects, you really can’t afford to choose a metal supplier that is anything but excellent. Be wary of companies that don’t have a positive reputation. Establishing confidence in a metal supplier’s strong, positive reputation is one of the best ways to guarantee their value.

Thin Metal Sales specializes in supplying a wide range of industries combined metals, thin steel sheets, thin metal strips, and much more. It doesn’t matter if you’re looking for copper and brass, 6061 aluminum, 304 stainless, or something else, we have you covered for all your combined metals needs. If you’ve ever found yourself searching something like “metal sales near me” and you’re just not sure who you can trust, then look no further. We are here to help supply you for your next project, no matter how large or small it may be. Want to place your first order? Just looking for a little more information on our offerings and products? No worries, all you have to do is reach out and get in touch with a member of our team today. We’re excited to work with you!

The Most Common Types of Metal Used in Medical Devices

Advancements in medical technology are helping people live longer and healthier lifestyles. These innovations are made possible through the applications of thin metal strips in medical devices. As the sheet metal market continues its annual growth rate of 4.09% each year, newer technologies in the medical field will be able to be developed to improve people’s lives. Here are the most popular types of thin sheet metal used in medical devices.

Titanium

Titanium is the most popular metal used in medical devices, especially for internal use in humans. It can resist corrosion and connect with human bones with less risk of rejection than any other metal, including stainless steel. This metal can be used in implanted devices that dispense medicine, control heart function, and provide neurostimulation and doesn’t interfere with CT scans or MRIs. These thin metal strips can also be found in orthopedic plates, rods, and pins. Titanium is also ideal for surgical instruments such as Lasik eye surgery equipment, forceps, drills, retractors, and needle holders.

Tantalum

Tantalum is also popular as a metal used in medical devices. It is highly resistant to corrosion, which makes it ideal for permanent bone implants. This metal has been used in the medical industry for over 50 years. It is commonly used in stents and vascular strips to help prevent arteries from collapsing. Tantalum is also MRI compatible as well.

Copper And Brass

Brass and copper are mainly used in the medical industry for external hospital equipment. It is used to help transmit signals to diagnostic tools and small implants. Copper also has antimicrobial and antibacterial properties which make it highly suitable in hospital settings. It can be used in hospital linen and clothes to help reduce rates of infection.

Nitinol

Nitinol is a nickel-titanium alloy that features superelastic properties. It can be manufactured at one temperature and then molded at another temperature into a smaller form for insertion into the human body. Body heat then expands the metal into its original size. This makes it ideal for stents, implants, staples, and bone anchors. It can also be used in devices that reconnect intestines and locate breast tumors.

These are only a few of the metals used within the medical industry. As you can see, the thin metal strips in medical devices can perform a wide range of functions to help patients live healthier lives. More applications are being developed every day. This will help us live longer and have a better quality of life as we age in the future.

The Most Overlooked Things about 6061 Aluminum

Aluminum alloys are used in most industrial processes due to their broad range of uses and wide availability. 6061 aluminum is one of the alloys with improved material properties. However, many people do not understand the uses and differences of various aluminum alloys. Here is detailed information about everything you need to know about 6061 aluminum.

Differences between 6063 and 6061 Aluminum

One of the most common concerns about aluminum alloys is differentiating between 6061 and 6063 aluminum. Silicon and magnesium are the two primary alloying elements of both 6063 and 6061. The main difference between these alloys is their end-use.

6063 has good formability and high corrosion resistance, so it is used mainly for custom extrusions. On the other hand, 6061 aluminum is primarily used for structural applications because it is stronger than 6063.

3003 aluminum

This alloy is made from combined metals namely manganese, aluminum, and copper. Since 3003 aluminum is one of the most popular aluminum alloys, most people confuse it with 6061 aluminum. Some of its popular uses are making chemical equipment, cabinets, trailers, trucks, metal sheets, and fuel tanks.

Versatility

The formability and weld-ability of 6061 aluminum make it suitable for general-purpose applications. Also, it is corrosion resistant and has high strength that makes a great pick for structural, architectural, and motor vehicle applications.

We cannot exhaust its uses in most industries. However, some of the common applications are furniture, electronic parts, aircraft, heat sinks, chemical equipment, marine frames, and truck frames.

It is worth noting that 40% of steel production globally is made with recycled metals such as aluminum alloys, and 6061 aluminum is one of the commonly used metals.

Corrosion Resistance

When you expose aluminum to water or air, it forms an oxide layer that makes it non-reactive with most elements. The level of corrosion resistance of 6061 aluminum depends on aqueous conditions and temperature.

However, the copper content found in 6061 makes it less resistant to corrosions as compared to other alloy types.

6061 is exceptionally great at resisting corrosion from ammonium hydroxide, ammonia, and nitric acid. You can get rid of these corrosive effects with a protective layer in which 6061 aluminum responds well.

Copper sheet metal for sale

Buying copper can be a daunting task especially if you do not have adequate information about different aluminum alloys. You are probably asking yourself, where do I get trusted metal sales near me? Check out Thin Metal Sales today to learn more!

Nervous Flyer? Here Are The Reasons You Shouldn’t Be!

Approximately one billion U.S. men and women fly privately or commercially in any given year, according to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

That means–every year–one billion Americans trust airlines and aircraft workers to safely get them from point A to point B. Airline travel is extraordinarily safe. In fact, it is the safest mode of travel, and the facts back that up. Let’s take a look at a few:

• • Turbulence is Nothing to Fear!

Although turbulence may make passengers nervous, it’s a perfectly normal occurrence and does not indicate that anything is awry. Planes have systems in place to keep them level. They will not flip over or go into a tailspin during turbulence. “Think of turbulence the same way you would think of bumps in the road on a long drive,” Life Hacker writes. “The main reason pilots do their best to avoid turbulence is because it’s annoying. They want to be able to sip their coffee without spilling the same as you do.”

Moreover, of the one billion passengers mentioned earlier, just 34 people on average are injured due to turbulence each year.

• • Air Travel is Much Safer Than Driving.

To briefly break out the numbers, driving is the most dangerous form of transportation–by far! Drivers have a 1 in 114 chance of being in a fatal accident. Comparatively, only one in two million flights involve fatalities, or individual risk of dying in a plane crash amounts to about 1 in approximately 10,000, according to the National Safety Council (NSC).

We drive every day and feel safe doing it. Air travel is much, much safer, so it makes sense to feel just as safe–or safer!–when flying!

• • Planes Are Tested–And Tested Again!–Prior to Sale.

Aerospace manufacturers choose from thin metal strips, brass and copper, stainless steel, combined metals, and copper sheet metal for sale, and begin putting together the frame of the plane. (Aluminum in all its forms–in bar shapes or cold-rolled–and stainless steel are most frequently purchased.) At completion, planes undergo several tests to ensure that they are safe and air-ready.

For example, the wings and the materials companies use to build the wings such as aluminum and copper sheet metal, are bent and put under stress. This simulates extreme situations. Manufacturers design wings to withstand stress, bouncing, and bending.

• • Aircrafts Go Through Regular, Ongoing Inspections.

Cars require a single annual inspection, and that’s it. Some states, like Florida, don’t even require that much. Aircraft, on the other hand, require annual inspections plus 100-hour or progressive inspections. Both 100-hour and progressive inspections are frequent and ongoing inspections. Safety features and structures undergo tests before every flight.

Planes are extremely safe. Manufacturers don’t just simply purchase metals, such as copper sheet metal for sale, throw it together, and call it a day. The same copper sheet metal for sale, once crafted into a plane, undergoes regular inspections. Tests are required prior to sale, planes are built to withstand turbulence, and statistics show that these measures add up to flying being one of the safest possible means of travel.

Everything You Need to Know About 302 Stainless Metal Grades

The thin metal strips industry has significantly grown in the last five years. It is attracting huge attention from building and contractors who are looking for alternative construction materials. Brass and copper have specifically experienced significant growth in the last few years owing to their lightweight property. The same can be said for thin aluminum strips.

The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics highlights that the metal fabrication industry is expected to grow by approximately 9% between 2016 and 2026. This is a clear indication that the metal sector is continuously growing. Combining the use of metal in the automotive sector and the real estate will bring a new dimension in the sector that was in decline several years ago.

Thin Metal Grades (302 Stainless)

Before using metals for construction purposes, it is important to understand that there are different types of metal grades. Some of the most common metal grades to consider include 302 stainless, 17-7 stainless, and 304 stainless. However, this article discusses the properties of 302 stainless and why metal experts should consider this metal grade for construction purposes.

Extremely Tough

302 stainless is an example of combined metals that are used to perform specific construction activities in the industry. Besides the combination of several metals, other properties make this grade one of the best in the industry. Elements such as carbon, titanium, and iron produce one of the toughest alloys that can be used in any construction work. The toughness of this metal grade explains why it is used in the manufacture of some of the most sensitive parts in the aeronautical industry.

Ductility Property

In the construction industry, many pieces of construction materials are required to achieve a specific objective. However, 302 stainless is solving the entire problem by bringing its ductility property in the industry. Unlike other construction materials that cannot be stretched without becoming brittle or demonstrating significant weaknesses, 302 stainless can be stretched to the point of forming a thin wire without breaking. It is one of the few metal grades that can be pulled and stretched to meet the needs of the constructor.

Corrosion Resistant

Most of the metals out there in the industry corrode when exposed to various elements in the atmosphere. This is a weakness because such metals cannot be used in the construction industry. They will weaken with time and any structure constructed using such metals will ultimately collapse. However, just like stainless steel, 302 stainless is corrosion resistant. Therefore, it cannot corrode when exposed to various elements in the atmosphere. This property makes it one of the best metals in the aeronautical sector.

Fabrication and Formability

Fabrication and formability are important properties in metals. Both properties are essential in the construction industry, where raw materials are converted into finished products that can be used in construction activities. 302 stainless is one of the few thin metal sheets that demonstrate both fabrication and formability properties. These properties make it one of the most reliable metal grades in the construction sector. The fact that it can be curved into various shapes and angles without breaking is a welcome bonus.

Rust Resistant

Rust is a major issue when it comes to construction metals. It makes them weak and unsuitable for sensitive structures, especially those used in medical and aeronautical industries. 302 stainless steel is an alloy of nickel and iron, which means that all the properties of iron, including rust, have been watered down. Just like 6061 aluminum, 302 stainless does not rust, which makes it one of the most suitable metal grades in the construction industry.

Are you looking for metal sales near me? Thin Metal Sales is a leading business that provides all the metal needs to customers in the West Coast region. With specialized and custom customer services, you can easily get 302 stainless sheets within the shortest time. With experienced technicians and advanced equipment, we can provide quality metal sheets with consistent customer satisfaction.