Aalco Product

Aalco Product
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Aalco Product

Product catalog summary
Introduction
The document provides an overview of Aalco Metals Limited, a leading independent multi-metals stockholder in the UK. It outlines the company's dedication to customer service, quality assurance, and its extensive product range, including stainless steel, aluminium, copper, brass, and bronze.
Company Overview
Aalco Metals Limited emphasizes its commitment to customer service, with a comprehensive stock range, investment in processing equipment, and a nationwide network of service centres. The company operates under strict quality control measures and offers a wide array of processing services.
Product Range
The document details the product offerings in stainless steel, aluminium, and copper, including specifications, corrosion resistance, finishes, and fabrication processes. It highlights the availability of standard and bespoke products tailored to customer needs.
Stainless Steel
The stainless steel section covers product specifications, corrosion resistance, finishes, care, maintenance, and fabrication. It includes a range of rolled products, bar products, and tubular products.
Aluminium
The aluminium section provides information on product specifications, installation, maintenance, and fabrication. It details rolled and extruded products, emphasizing Aalco's expertise in sourcing and processing bespoke extrusions.
Copper
The copper section outlines product specifications and fabrication processes, catering to various industry needs.
Service and Quality
Aalco's service is characterized by a large inventory, local service centres, and a significant investment in logistics and technology. The company ensures quality through rigorous selection of manufacturing sources and adherence to international standards.
Logistics and Systems
Aalco operates a hub and satellite system, with a central Metal Centre and local service centres. The logistics network ensures efficient delivery across the UK, supported by advanced information systems.
Export and Special Services
The document highlights Aalco's export capabilities and specialized services for the energy, offshore, and process industries. A dedicated export team handles international deliveries, ensuring compliance with quality and documentation requirements.
Conclusion
Aalco Metals Limited positions itself as a reliable and comprehensive source for metal products, offering tailored solutions and exceptional customer service across various sectors.
Introduction to Stainless Steel
Stainless steel, known for its corrosion resistance, was developed in the early 20th century. Harry Brearley of Sheffield is credited with its invention, although similar developments occurred in France, Germany, and the USA. The key component is chromium, with a minimum content of about 11%. Stainless steel is categorized into various families based on its metallurgical structure: Ferritic, Austenitic, Duplex, and Martensitic/Precipitation Hardening.
Types of Stainless Steel
  • Ferritic: Magnetic, low carbon, chromium as the main alloying element, not hardenable by heat treatment.
  • Austenitic: Non-magnetic, low carbon, contains chromium and nickel, not hardenable by heat treatment but strengthens during cold working.
  • Duplex: Magnetic, low carbon, contains chromium, nickel, and nitrogen, not hardenable by heat treatment but has higher strength.
  • Martensitic and Precipitation Hardening: Can be magnetic or non-magnetic, hardenable by heat treatment, contains chromium and nickel.
Corrosion Resistance
Stainless steels resist corrosion due to a chromium-rich passive layer. This layer is self-repairing in the presence of oxygen. Additional elements like nickel and molybdenum enhance corrosion resistance.
Other Properties
Stainless steels offer mechanical strength, hardness, toughness, ductility, work hardening, and magnetic permeability. These properties vary across different families and grades, making stainless steel suitable for diverse applications.
Recycling and Environmental Impact
Stainless steel is 100% recyclable, with about 80% of new production coming from recycled material. Its long service life and minimal maintenance contribute to better life cycle cost benefits compared to other materials.
Selection of Stainless Steels
Selection is primarily based on corrosion resistance, followed by mechanical and physical properties, fabrication techniques, and cost. The choice of grade depends on the required corrosion resistance and other application-specific properties.
Applications
Stainless steels are used in a wide range of applications:
  • Ferritic: Vehicle exhausts, domestic appliances, food serving counters.
  • Austenitic: Architectural structures, food processing equipment, plumbing.
  • Martensitic: Cutlery, surgical instruments, pump shafts.
  • Duplex: Pressure vessels, heat exchangers, offshore installations.
  • Precipitation Hardening: Aerospace components, turbine blades, military equipment.
Specifications and Standards
Stainless steel products in the UK adhere to British Standard versions of European Standards, ensuring uniformity across the European Community.
Introduction to Standards: The document discusses the standards for stainless steel, focusing on British, European, and American standards. In Britain, stainless steel standards are published as "BS EN" standards, with BS EN 10088-1 being the main standard for stainless grades. The document also mentions the transition from British Standards to European Standards since 1995.
British and European Standards: Key British Standards for stainless steels include BS EN 10088-1, BS EN 10088-2, and BS EN 10088-3, among others. The document highlights that most stainless steel product forms have been incorporated into European Standards, with some exceptions like hollow bars and concrete reinforcing bars.
American Standards: American standards, such as ASTM and ASME, use AISI or UNS grade designations. The document explains that AISI grades define chemical compositions, while ASTM standards specify products. The UNS system offers more precise grade compositions than the older AISI system.
Stainless Steel Grades: The document outlines the AISI grade system, which includes series like 200, 300, 400, and 600, each representing different types of stainless steels. It also mentions that duplex and super-austenitic stainless steel grades are identified by common names or UNS numbers.
Specifications and Properties: Standards specify chemical compositions, tensile properties, and other parameters like surface finish and size tolerances. The document notes that physical properties like magnetic permeability are not included in standards and must be specified separately if needed.
Certification and Compliance: Stainless steel products often come with certificates to meet ISO 9000 and related quality standards. Dual certification is common, allowing products to meet multiple standards and grades.
European Directives and Safety: The document discusses European directives like RoHS and WEEE, which impose restrictions on hazardous substances. It also mentions the "Nickel Directive" and the requirement for Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) under UK health and safety law.
Corrosion Resistance: Stainless steels rely on a passive surface layer for corrosion resistance. The document explains general and localized corrosion, including mechanisms like pitting, crevice corrosion, and stress corrosion cracking.
Overview: The document provides a comprehensive analysis of stainless steel corrosion resistance, focusing on different types of corrosion, the role of alloy composition, and the importance of surface finishes. It highlights the factors influencing corrosion resistance and offers guidelines for selecting appropriate stainless steel grades for various applications.
1. Pitting Corrosion: Re-sulphurised "free-machining" stainless steels like 303 are more prone to pitting corrosion compared to non-treated grades like 304. The Pitting Resistance Equivalent Number (PREN) is used to compare the pitting resistance of different stainless steel grades, with higher values indicating better resistance. The formula for austenitic stainless steels is PREN = %Cr + (3.3 x %Mo) + (16 x %N).
2. Crevice Corrosion: This occurs in areas with restricted oxygen supply, such as bolted joints or beneath flanges. Factors promoting crevice corrosion include defects, coarse surface finishes, stagnant conditions, high chloride content, acidic pH, and increasing temperatures. Grades with higher chromium, molybdenum, and nitrogen levels offer better resistance.
3. Stress Corrosion Cracking (SCC): SCC requires tensile stress, chlorides, and elevated temperatures. Ferritic and duplex grades are more resistant to SCC than common austenitic grades. Increasing nickel content and improving pitting resistance through molybdenum and nitrogen additions enhance SCC resistance.
4. Bimetallic (Galvanic) Corrosion: Occurs when two different metals are in contact with an electrolyte. Stainless steels are usually noble compared to common metals, but contact with galvanized steel can cause corrosion to the zinc coating. Measures to prevent this include keeping the junction dry, insulating the metals, and applying protective coatings.
5. Intergranular Corrosion (IGC): Affects austenitic and ferritic stainless steels, often associated with welding. Stabilized grades with titanium or niobium additions prevent chromium carbide formation, reducing susceptibility to IGC.
6. Selection of Stainless Steels: Considerations include selecting appropriate grades, using molybdenum and nitrogen to improve resistance, and choosing ferritic, duplex, or high nickel grades for SCC-prone environments. Low carbon grades are preferable to avoid IGC.
7. Surface Finishes: Surface finishes impact corrosion resistance, appearance, and cleanability. Mill finishes are categorized into hot rolled and cold rolled, with special finishes available for specific applications. The smoothest, most crevice-free surface should be specified to optimize corrosion resistance.
Surface Finishes for Stainless Steel:
1. Texture and Reflectivity: Various finishes are available, ranging from non-reflective to mirror-like surfaces. The choice of finish affects both aesthetic and functional properties, such as corrosion resistance and suitability for external applications.
2. Mechanical Finishes: These include grinding, polishing, brushing, and buffing. Each process involves different techniques and results in varying surface textures. For example, grinding and polishing remove metal to create a smooth finish, while brushing modifies the surface without removing material.
3. Comparison of Mill Finishes: The document compares different standards for stainless steel finishes, including BS EN 10088-2, BS 1449-2, DIN, and ASTM codes.
4. Applications: Mechanically finished stainless steel is used in both internal and external applications. The choice of finish affects corrosion resistance and dirt retention. Non-directional finishes like bead and shot-blasted surfaces offer low reflectivity and improved stress corrosion resistance.
5. Patterned Finishes: These are achieved through texture rolling or embossing, providing a three-dimensional effect. They are more rigid and less prone to showing fingerprints.
6. Chemical Finishes: Processes like electropolishing and colouring enhance surface properties. Electropolishing smooths the surface and improves corrosion resistance, while colouring alters the passive film to produce various hues.
7. Preparation for Service Environment: Proper preparation, including pickling and passivation, is crucial for maintaining stainless steel's corrosion resistance. These processes clean and enhance the passive layer on the steel surface.
Specifications and Standards:
The document outlines the specifications for chemical passivation treatments for stainless steel parts, referencing the US Defense Department standard QQ-P-35C and BS EN 2516 for passivation of corrosion-resisting steels and decontamination of nickel base alloys.
Heat Tint Removal:
Heat tinting occurs when the oxide layer on stainless steel thickens due to welding, reducing corrosion resistance. Removal is crucial for applications requiring ambient temperature corrosion resistance. Methods include mechanical removal, chemical treatments like brush-on pastes, spray or immersion acid pickling, and electrolytic methods. Hidden areas should also be treated to ensure full corrosion resistance.
Iron Contamination and Rust Staining:
Stainless steel should be free from contamination, but non-stainless steel equipment can introduce rust staining. Tests like the ferroxyl test can detect contamination. Phosphoric acid cleaners or dilute nitric acid can remove iron contamination without altering the surface appearance.
Cleaning and Maintenance:
Regular cleaning is essential to maintain the corrosion resistance and aesthetic appeal of stainless steel. Factors affecting maintenance include surface contamination, environmental conditions, and the design of components. Routine cleaning methods involve using soap, detergents, and mild abrasives, while more severe stains may require specific chemical treatments.
Routine Cleaning Methods:
Various cleaning methods are suggested for different types of stains and contaminants, including the use of hydrocarbon solvents for oil marks, phosphoric acid for rust stains, and proprietary gels for carbon steel contamination. Care should be taken to avoid abrasive materials that can damage the surface.
Fabrication Considerations:
Stainless steels can be formed, cut, machined, and joined using methods similar to those for low alloy steels, but with adjustments to maintain corrosion resistance. Dedicated equipment for stainless steel is recommended to prevent cross-contamination. Enhanced machinability grades are available for specific applications.
Cold Working Methods: The document discusses various cold working methods for stainless steels, including deep drawing, stretch forming, folding and bending, cold forging, and cutting. Each method is suited to different types of stainless steel, such as ferritic, austenitic, and duplex, with specific grades mentioned for optimal performance.
Deep Drawing: Austenitic steels are preferred for deep drawing due to their superior characteristics, despite work-hardening tendencies. Ferritic steels are also used but have limitations in ductility and anisotropy, leading to issues like earring.
Stretch Forming: This method is ideal for austenitic steels due to their work-hardening properties, allowing longer draw strokes without fractures. Specific grades like 301 are developed for this purpose.
Folding and Bending: Austenitic steels are suitable for these processes due to their ductility and work-hardening. Ferritic and duplex steels require higher initial forces due to higher yield strengths.
Cold Forging: Requires steels with good ductility and low work-hardening to prevent cracking. Grade 1.4567 is recommended for such applications.
Cutting: Stainless steels can be cut using cold methods like shearing and sawing, or thermal methods like laser cutting. Austenitic steels require more robust equipment due to high work-hardening rates.
Machining: Austenitic steels are challenging to machine but can be managed with appropriate tools and parameters. Enhanced machinability grades like 303 are available but have inferior properties compared to 304.
Joining Methods: Stainless steels can be joined using cold methods (riveting, bolting, adhesive bonding) or thermal methods (soldering, brazing, welding). Each method has specific considerations for strength and corrosion resistance.
Welding: Most stainless steels can be welded, with austenitic and duplex grades being particularly suitable. Various welding techniques are discussed, including TIG, MIG, and laser welding.
Product Range and Specifications: The document outlines the range of stainless steel products available, including plates, sheets, coils, and treadplates, along with their specifications according to BS EN standards. Differences between new and superseded standards are highlighted, such as changes in mechanical properties and chemical compositions.
Overview: This document provides a comprehensive guide to the updated British and European standards for stainless steel products, focusing on mechanical properties, chemical compositions, and dimensional tolerances. It highlights the transition from older BS standards to new BS EN standards, detailing changes in specifications and tolerances for various stainless steel grades and products.
Specifications and Standards:
  • BS EN 10088-2 replaces BS 1449-Part 2: 1983, covering heat-resisting grades and cold-rolled material tolerances.
  • BS EN 10088-3 replaces BS 970 Parts 1 & 3: 1991, focusing on chemical composition and mechanical properties.
  • Various BS EN standards specify tolerances for hot rolled and bright bars, including flat, square, round, and hexagonal bars.
Mechanical Properties:
  • Tensile strengths have been increased, with maximum values now stipulated.
  • Specific grades such as 304S15, 304S16, and 304S31 have been replaced by 1.4301, with slight variations in nickel content.
Chemical Compositions:
  • Detailed chemical composition ranges for various grades, including carbon, chrome, and nickel percentages, are provided.
  • Comparative grades are listed, noting that they are nearest comparisons and not direct equivalents.
Dimensional Tolerances:
  • Length, thickness, width, and flatness tolerances are specified for different product dimensions.
  • ISO 286-2 tolerance classifications are included for various diameter ranges.
Product Ranges:
  • Core product ranges include round, flat, hexagon, and square bars, with specific dimensions and grades available.
  • Details on tube, pipe, fittings, and flanges are provided, including seamless and welded options to various ASTM standards.
Welded Pipe Specifications:
  • ASTM standards for seamless and welded pipes are outlined, with specific classes dictating welding processes and testing requirements.
  • Markings on pipes must include nominal size, schedule, specification, grade, and manufacturer details.
Conclusion: The document serves as a detailed reference for professionals dealing with stainless steel products, ensuring compliance with updated standards and specifications for various applications.
Specifications and Grades: The document outlines the availability of stainless steel tubes in various grades, including 304L and 316L, which are commonly stocked. Other grades, such as duplex types and nickel alloys, are available upon request. Tubes are marked with size, specification, grade, manufacturing method, heat number, and manufacturer's name.
Tube Sizes and Ranges: A wide range of tube sizes is available, including hypodermic, instrumentation, metric, imperial, hygienic/sanitary, and decorative tubes. Specific dimensions and wall thicknesses are provided for each category.
ASTM Standards: The document lists several ASTM standards applicable to stainless steel tubes, including A450/A450M, A213/A213M, A249/A249M, and others, detailing requirements for different types of tubes.
Hygienic Tubes and Fittings: These are used in industries requiring sanitary conditions, such as food processing and pharmaceuticals. They are available in grades 304L and 316L, with sizes ranging from 1/2 inch to 4 inch O/D. Manufacturing standards include ASTM A270, DIN 11850, and BS 4825.
Butt Weld Fittings: Used for permanent pipe-work systems, these fittings are manufactured to standards like ASTM A403 and ASTM A815. They are available in seamless and welded forms, with specific classes detailing radiography requirements.
Pipe Flanges: Various types of flanges are described, including weld neck, blind, socket weld, and others. The document specifies pressure ratings and manufacturing standards, such as ANSI B16.5 and BS EN 1092.
BSP Fittings: These fittings are used for threaded pipe connections in non-critical, low-pressure applications. They are made from type 316 stainless steel and are available in sizes from 1/8 to 3 inches.
Stainless Steel Low Pressure BSP Fittings
Stainless steel socket weld fittings are used in high-pressure pipe-work systems. They are incorporated into joints using circumferential socket welds and are compatible with ANSI Pipe sizes. These fittings are designed for permanent installations with good flow characteristics and are produced according to BS 3799, ASTM A182, and ANSI B16.11 standards. Available pressure ratings include 2000lb, 3000lb, 6000lb, and 9000lb. High-pressure fittings with NPT threads are also available.
Aluminium Product Range
Aalco stocks a wide range of aluminium products including sheets, coils, strips, plates, tubes, bars, and sections. They offer industry-specific items and custom specials, along with processing services like cutting, finishing, and packaging. Aluminium is the most abundant metal and is widely used due to its properties such as strength-to-weight ratio, corrosion resistance, and recyclability. It is used in various industries including transport, packaging, and construction.
Properties of Aluminium
Aluminium has a high strength-to-weight ratio, excellent corrosion resistance, and good electrical and thermal conductivity. It is non-toxic, recyclable, and has a high reflectivity for light and heat. Aluminium is extracted from bauxite and processed through the Bayer process and electrolytic smelting. The industry focuses on environmental considerations, including recycling, which uses only 5% of the energy required to produce new aluminium.
Applications of Aluminium
Aluminium is used in packaging, transport, marine applications, and building architecture due to its advantageous properties. It is also used in foils for packaging and insulation. The metal is alloyed with elements like copper, zinc, and magnesium to enhance its properties for specific applications. Aluminium alloys are designated by a four-figure system, with over 300 wrought alloys available.
Introduction
Aluminium is a versatile material known for its excellent corrosion resistance, thermal and electrical conductivity, and reflectivity. It is widely used in various applications due to its lightweight and strength.
Material Properties
  • Corrosion Resistance: Aluminium is highly resistant to corrosion, especially in acidic environments, but less so in alkaline conditions.
  • Thermal Conductivity: Aluminium's thermal conductivity is three times greater than steel, making it ideal for heat exchangers and kitchenware.
  • Electrical Conductivity: Although not as conductive as copper, aluminium's lightweight allows it to conduct more electricity per weight.
  • Reflectivity: Aluminium reflects up to 80% of visible light, making it useful in light fixtures and as an insulating material.
Mechanical Properties
Aluminium can be deformed without failure, allowing for various mechanical processes like rolling and extruding. Its tensile strength can be significantly increased through alloying and heat treatment.
Standards and Designations
The EN standards for aluminium alloys include unchanged chemical compositions and alloy numbering systems. Temper designations have been expanded for heat-treatable alloys, and mechanical properties remain similar to previous standards.
Heat Treatment
Various heat treatments can be applied to aluminium alloys, including homogenisation, annealing, and precipitation hardening. Designations like F, O, T, and H indicate the type of treatment applied.
Handling and Storage
Proper handling and storage are crucial to prevent damage and staining. Aluminium should be stored in dry conditions and handled carefully to avoid surface damage.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Regular cleaning is essential to maintain aluminium's appearance. Cleaning methods range from plain water to abrasive cleaners, depending on the level of dirt and staining.
Fabrication
Aluminium can be fabricated into various forms using processes like cutting, bending, and deep drawing. The choice of method depends on the alloy's form and temper.
Conclusion
Aluminium's unique properties make it a valuable material in engineering applications. Proper handling, storage, and maintenance are essential to preserve its qualities.
Aluminium Alloys and Properties
Aluminium alloys are categorized based on their properties such as formability, weldability, corrosion resistance, and strength. Key alloy series include:
  • 4XXX: Formable, weldable, corrosion resistant.
  • 5XXX: Formable, weldable, excellent corrosion resistance.
  • 6XXX: Formable, corrosion resistant, medium-to-high-strength.
  • 7XXX: Machinable, poor corrosion resistance and weldability, high strength.
  • 8XXX: Excellent formability.
Bend Radii
When bending aluminium, the bend radius is crucial to avoid cracking. It depends on factors like alloy, temper, and cross-sectional dimensions. Consulting bend radii tables and conducting practical trials is recommended.
Joining Methods
Aluminium is commonly joined by welding, which requires removing the oxide layer due to its higher melting point. Welding methods include:
  • Fusion Welding: MIG and TIG welding are preferred for economic and quality reasons.
  • Resistance Welding: Spot, seam, wire, and flash welding are common for high-strength alloys.
  • Friction Welding: Used to join dissimilar metals without creating brittle zones.
  • Brazing: Requires close temperature control.
  • Adhesive Bonding: Increasingly used in structural applications, relying on bonding to the oxide layer.
  • Mechanical Joints: Riveting, screwing, and bolting provide high-strength joins without distortion.
Machining and Finishing
Aluminium requires special machining techniques due to its high friction and thermal expansion. Finishing methods include mechanical, chemical, anodising, and organic processes to enhance surface properties and appearance.
Standards and Specifications
Aluminium rolled products adhere to EN standards, which have replaced the old BS 1470 standard. These standards cover chemical compositions, mechanical properties, and tolerances for both hot and cold rolled materials.
Specifications and Tolerances:
The document outlines various specifications and tolerances for aluminium and copper products, focusing on dimensions such as thickness, width, and diameter. It provides detailed tables for hot and cold rolled aluminium products, specifying maximum deviations for different thickness ranges and widths. For extruded products, it lists tolerances for round, square, and rectangular bars, as well as tubes and other profiles.
Aluminium Standards:
The document references BS EN standards for aluminium products, highlighting changes from the old BS 1474 standard. Key standards include EN 755 for extruded products and EN 573 for alloy designations. It notes changes in temper designations and alloy grouping for tolerance purposes.
Product Ranges:
The core product ranges for aluminium include round, flat, and square bars, as well as tubes, box sections, and bespoke sections. The document also details the stock range for aluminium extruded products, including angles, channels, and road transport sections.
Copper Products:
Aalco stocks a wide range of copper and its alloys, including sheet, plate, rod, and tube. The document highlights the versatility of copper due to its physical properties like strength and conductivity. It also notes the significant use of copper in the building industry, accounting for 47% of its consumption.
Key Data from Tables:
- Thickness tolerances for cold rolled aluminium are divided into two groups based on alloy series.
- Diameter tolerances for round bars and width tolerances for flats are specified for different alloy groups.
- Wall thickness tolerances for seamless and porthole tubes are detailed, with variations based on the circumscribing circle dimension.
Recommendations and Best Practices:
The document suggests disregarding a 10mm zone from the edges when measuring thickness. It also emphasizes the importance of sourcing expertise and purchasing power in providing bespoke extrusions tailored to customer specifications.
Overview of Copper and Copper Alloys
Copper and its alloys are used extensively across various industries due to their excellent properties. The document provides a comprehensive overview of copper's applications, properties, and classifications.
Applications
Copper and copper alloys are utilized in numerous applications such as power transmission lines, architectural applications, cooking utensils, spark plugs, electrical wiring, heat exchangers, refrigeration tubing, and plumbing.
Properties
Copper is known for its excellent heat and electrical conductivity, good corrosion resistance, biofouling resistance, machinability, and non-magnetic nature. It has a face-centered cubic crystal structure and a melting point of 1083ºC.
Electrical Conductivity
Copper's electrical conductivity is second only to silver, making it a standard material for electricity transmission. However, aluminum is often used for overhead high voltage power lines due to its lighter weight.
Corrosion Resistance
Copper alloys resist corrosion in fresh water, steam, and various atmospheres. They form protective films that prevent further corrosion. Specific alloys like Copper Nickel and Aluminum Bronzes offer superior resistance to saltwater corrosion.
Surface Oxidation
Exposure to the elements can cause copper alloys to develop a blue-green patina or darken over time. Protective coatings can maintain the original color.
Mechanical Properties
Copper alloys can be joined through brazing, welding, soldering, and mechanical means. They can be hot and cold worked, with ductility restored by annealing.
Classification and Designation
Copper alloys are classified into families such as Pure Coppers, High Copper Alloys, Brasses, and Bronzes. Designation systems like EN and UNS are used to identify chemical compositions and properties.
Brasses and Bronzes
Brasses contain zinc as the principal alloying element, while bronzes typically have tin. Both have various subcategories based on additional alloying elements.
Recycling
Copper alloys are highly recyclable, with about 40% of annual consumption derived from recycled materials.
Standards and Specifications
The document lists various EN standards for copper and copper alloys, detailing their applications and nearest old BS equivalents.
Overview: This document provides detailed information on various corrosion-resistant alloys, focusing on their compositions, mechanical properties, and applications. It includes a conversion of old British Standards (BS) to European Norm (EN) material designations, highlighting the transition in alloy classification.
1. Alloy Specifications:
  • The document lists numerous copper alloys, including high tensile brasses, copper-aluminium (aluminium bronze), copper-nickel, and copper-nickel-zinc (nickel silver) alloys.
  • Each alloy is identified by its composition, including elements like Cu, Zn, Al, Ni, Si, Pb, Sn, and others, along with their respective EN material designations.
2. Mechanical Properties:
  • Typical mechanical properties such as proof strength, tensile strength, elongation, hardness, and electrical conductivity are provided for each alloy.
  • Heat-treatable and non-heat-treatable alloys are distinguished, with specific applications and characteristics noted, such as machinability and resistance to corrosion.
3. Applications and Uses:
  • The document outlines the applications of these alloys in various industries, emphasizing their versatility and suitability for different fabrication processes like machining, forming, and joining.
  • Specific uses include electrical components, marine environments, and high-strength structural materials.
4. Standards and Conversion:
  • A comprehensive list of old BS standards replaced by EN standards is provided, facilitating the understanding of material equivalencies and updates in alloy classification.
  • The document emphasizes the importance of these standards in ensuring consistent quality and performance of copper alloys.
5. Handling and Storage:
  • Guidelines for the handling and storage of copper and copper alloys are similar to those for aluminium and stainless steel, with cleanliness being a critical factor.
Conclusion: The document serves as a technical reference for selecting and utilizing corrosion-resistant copper alloys, providing essential data on their properties, standards, and applications.
Handling and Storage of Copper: Copper materials should be kept clean to prevent contamination, which can lead to issues like cracking during heat treatment or welding. They should be stored in their packaging until needed and kept separated by protective material to avoid abrasion. Copper sheets and plates should be stored vertically in covered racks and should not be walked upon.
Ductility and Malleability: Copper and its alloys are highly ductile and malleable, making them suitable for fabrication methods involving severe deformation, such as tube forming, wire drawing, and deep drawing. These processes require specialized equipment and skilled operators.
Cutting Copper: Copper alloys can be easily cut using common tools. For pipe and tube cutting, a fine-toothed hacksaw or tube cutter is recommended. For sheets and plates, the cutting method depends on thickness and volume, ranging from tin snips for thin materials to industrial methods like laser cutting for thicker materials.
Bending Copper: Copper pipes can be bent using bending springs or machines. The choice of tool depends on the pipe's diameter and wall thickness. Copper bars can be bent using standard methods, with the minimum bending radius equal to the bar's thickness.
Joining Copper Components: Copper alloys can be joined using various methods, including welding, soldering, brazing, bolting, riveting, and adhesive bonding. Each method has specific requirements, such as cleanliness of the joint area and compatibility of materials.
Casting and Machining: Copper alloys are suitable for casting using techniques like sand and die casting. They can also be machined with high accuracy and good surface finish. Some alloys are formulated for excellent machinability.
Finishing and Cleaning: Copper naturally forms a protective oxide layer, which can be enhanced or removed depending on aesthetic preferences. Finishing methods include lacquering and painting. Cleaning involves preventing dirt accumulation and using specific methods to remove tarnish.
Recycling: Copper alloys are highly recyclable, with a significant portion of annual consumption coming from recycled materials.
Corrosion Susceptibility: A table is provided showing the susceptibility of various metals to corrosion, with copper and its alloys being relatively resistant.
Conversion Factors: A comprehensive list of conversion factors for various units of measurement is included, facilitating calculations involving copper materials.
Conversion Factors:
- Square inch to Newtons per square millimetre: 0.006894757
- Pounds to grams: 453.60
- Pounds to kilograms: 0.453593
- Square centimetres to square inches: 0.1550003
- Square feet to square metres: 0.09290304
- Square inches to square centimetres: 6.4516
- Square inches to square millimetres: 645.16
- Square kilometres to square miles: 0.386103
- Square metres to square feet: 10.763910
- Square metres to square yards: 1.195990
- Square miles to square kilometres: 2.590
- Square millimetres to square inches: 0.001550003
- Square yards to square metres: 0.8361274
- Tons per square inch to kilograms per square millimetre: 1.575
- Tons per square inch to Newtons per square millimetre: 15.4443
- Tons (long) to kilograms: 1016.047
- Tons (long) to metric tons: 1.016047
- Yards to metres: 0.9144
- Cubic yards to cubic metres: 0.7645549
Material Weights and Dimensions:
- Round: Diameter = d, Weight = 0.00078540 d²p Kg/m
- Hexagon: Width across flats = f, Weight = 0.00086603 f²p Kg/m
- Square: Side = a, Weight = 0.00100 a²p Kg/m
- Flat: Width = w, Thickness = t, Weight = 0.00100 wtp Kg/m
- Angle/Tee: Leg lengths = L1, L2, Thickness = t, Weight = 0.00100 (L1 + L2-t)tp Kg/m
- Channel: Leg lengths = L1, L2, Base = B, Thickness = t, Weight = 0.00100 (B + L1 + L2-2t)tp Kg/m
- Plate/Sheet: Thickness = t, Length = L, Width = w, Weight = 0.000001 Lwtp Kg/Sheet
- Strip: Width = w, Thickness = t, Weight = 0.100 wtp Kg/100m
- Pipe/Tube: Outside diameter = D, Inside diameter = d, Wall thickness = t, Weight = 0.0031416 (D-t)tp or (d+t)tp Kg/m
- Square/Rectangular Tube: Sides = a1, a2, Wall thickness = t, Weight = 0.001 (2a1 + 2a2-4t)tp Kg/m
- Wire: Diameter = d, Weight = 0.78540 d²p Kg/Km
Material Properties:
- Aluminium: Density = 2.7 Kg/dm³, Melting Temp = 660°C, Thermal Conductivity = 201, Electrical Resistivity = 2.65, UTS = 105, Proof Stress = 85, Elongation = 4%, Young’s Modulus = 68 GPa
- Aluminium Alloy: Density = 2.7 Kg/dm³, Melting Temp = 660°C, Thermal Conductivity = 184, Electrical Resistivity = 3.7, UTS = 310, Proof Stress = 260, Elongation = 7%, Young’s Modulus = 68 to 89 GPa
- Brass CZ121: Density = 8.5 Kg/dm³, Melting Temp = 954°C, Thermal Conductivity = 110, Electrical Resistivity = 6.33, UTS = 400, Proof Stress = 190, Elongation = 20%, Young’s Modulus = 103 to 120 GPa
- Copper C101: Density = 8.9 Kg/dm³, Melting Temp = 1083°C, Thermal Conductivity = 385, Electrical Resistivity = 1.67, UTS = 360, Proof Stress = 280, Elongation = 15%, Young’s Modulus = 128 to 131 GPa
- Iron: Density = 7.8 Kg/dm³, Melting Temp = 1537°C, Thermal Conductivity = 80, Electrical Resistivity = 9.71, UTS = 210, Proof Stress = 120, Elongation = 40%, Young’s Modulus = 152 to 183 GPa
- Lead: Density = 11.3 Kg/dm³, Melting Temp = 327°C, Thermal Conductivity = 35, Electrical Resistivity = 20.65, UTS = 20, Proof Stress = 0, Elongation = 60%, Young’s Modulus = 16 to 18 GPa
- Nickel Alloy (Nimonic 105): Density = 7.9 Kg/dm³, Melting Temp = 1327°C, Thermal Conductivity = 12, Electrical Resistivity = 132.0, UTS = 990, Proof Stress = 800, Elongation = 5%, Young’s Modulus = 180 to 234 GPa
- Stainless Steel (18CR/8Ni): Density = 7.9 Kg/dm³, Melting Temp = 1527°C, Thermal Conductivity = 150, Electrical Resistivity = 70, UTS = 570, Proof Stress = 215, Elongation = 30%, Young’s Modulus = 205 to 215 GPa
- Mild Steel: Density = 7.8 Kg/dm³, Melting Temp = 1427°C, Thermal Conductivity = 63, Electrical Resistivity = 12, UTS = 690, Proof Stress = 350, Elongation = 20%, Young’s Modulus = 196 to 211 GPa
- Tin: Density = 7.3 Kg/dm³, Melting Temp = 232°C, Thermal Conductivity = 65, Electrical Resistivity = 12.8, UTS = 25, Proof Stress = 20, Elongation = 60%, Young’s Modulus = 44 to 53 GPa
Comparative Densities:
- Aluminium: 2.70 Kg/dm³
- Stainless Steel (Ferritic/Martensitic): 7.75 Kg/dm³
- Stainless Steel (Austenitic): 7.92 Kg/dm³
- Copper: 8.90 Kg/dm³
- Brass: 8.47 Kg/dm³
- Bronze: 8.89 Kg/dm³
- INCOLOY® Alloy 800: 7.95 Kg/dm³
- INCOLOY® Alloy 800H: 7.95 Kg/dm³
- INCOLOY® Alloy 825: 8.14 Kg/dm³
- INCOLOY® Alloy 903: 8.14 Kg/dm³
- INCOLOY® Alloy DS: 7.92 Kg/dm³
- INCONEL® Alloy 600: 8.42 Kg/dm³
- INCONEL® Alloy 601: 8.06 Kg/dm³
- INCONEL® Alloy 617: 8.36 Kg/dm³
- INCONEL® Alloy 625: 8.44 Kg/dm³
- INCONEL® Alloy 690: 8.19 Kg/dm³
- INCONEL® Alloy 718: 8.19 Kg/dm³
- INCONEL® Alloy X-750: 8.25 Kg/dm³
- MONEL Alloy 400: 8.83 Kg/dm³
- MONEL Alloy K-500: 8.46 Kg/dm³
- Nickel 200: 8.89 Kg/dm³
- Nickel 201: 8.89 Kg/dm³
- UNS 31803: 7.80 Kg/dm³
- 17-4 PH: 7.75 Kg/dm³
Contact Information for AALCO Service Centres:
- Aberdeen: Tel: 01224 854810, Email: [email protected]
- Aylesbury: Tel: 01296 461700, Email: [email protected]
- Belfast: Tel: 02890 838838, Email: [email protected]
- Birmingham: Tel: 0121 585 3600, Email: [email protected]
- Chepstow: Tel: 01291 638 638, Email: [email protected]
- Dyfed: Tel: 01269 842044, Email: [email protected]
- Essex: Tel: 01268 884200, Email: [email protected]
- Glasgow: Tel: 0141 646 3200, Email: [email protected]
- Hull: Tel: 01482 626262, Email: [email protected]
- Leeds: Tel: 0113 276 3300, Email: [email protected]
- Liverpool: Tel: 0151 207 3551, Email: [email protected]
- Manchester: Tel: 01204 863456, Email: [email protected]
- Newcastle: Tel: 0191 491 1133, Email: [email protected]
- Norwich: Tel: 01603 787878, Email: [email protected]
- Nottingham: Tel: 0115 988 2600, Email: [email protected]
- Southampton: Tel: 02380 875200, Email: [email protected]
- Stoke: Tel: 01782 375700, Email: [email protected]
- Swanley: Tel: 01322 610900, Email: [email protected]
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Catalog excerpts

Aalco Product-1

Company Prole Stainless Steel Aluminium Copper, Brass & Bronze General Data

 Open the catalog to page 1
Aalco Product-2

To receive a copy of any of the following literature or to download a pdf version please visit www.aalco.co.uk or contact your local Service Centre. Details on back cover. The information contained herein is based on our present knowledge and experience and is given in good faith. However, no liability will be accepted by the Company in respect of any action taken by any third party in reliance thereon. As the products detailed herein may be used for a wide variety of purposes and as the Company has no control over their use, the Company specically excludes all conditions or warranties expressed...

 Open the catalog to page 2
Aalco Product-3

Contents Introduction The Company Product Range Stainless Steel Product Range Corrosion Resistance Care & Maintenance Rolled Product Range Hot Rolled Product Specications Cold Rolled Product Specications Bar Product Range & Specications Tubular Products Range & Specications Aluminium Product Range Installation & Maintenance Rolled Products Range & Specications Extruded Products Range & Specications Copper Product Range General Data General Data

 Open the catalog to page 3
Aalco Product-4

alco is the UK's largest independent multi-metals stockholder. Customers from every sector of UK manufacturing and engineering industry, whether small local businesses or large multinational corporations, benet from a cost-effective single source for all their metals requirements: l An inventory that includes aluminium, stainless steel, copper, brass, bronze and nickel alloys in all seminished forms l Comprehensive processing services providing items cut and/or nished to customer requirements l Eighteen locations bringing local service to every corner of the UK l Ongoing investment in technology...

 Open the catalog to page 4
Aalco Product-5

The Company Standard Stock & “Specials” Processing Services In providing customers with a cost-effective single source for all their metals requirements, over 50% of Aalco sales are made up of non standard or customerspecial items. Many such items are held in stock at the Service Centres for call-off by their local customers, whilst others are processed as required. Processed material can save customers both time and money. Understanding this, Aalco has made a major investment in a wide range of modern processing equipment, particularly for cutting and nishing, at both its local and central service...

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Aalco Product-6

The Company – Special Product and Services Road Transport Products Energy, Offshore & Process Industries The range includes: l Rolled Products – sheet & patterned sheet, plate & treadplate, shate l Standard Extrusions – angle, channel, tee, tube & box section, at/square/round bar l Special Sections – Bearers/Runners, Floor Planks, Side Raves & Guards, Corner Pillars, Cant Rails, Top Hats, Zeds, Mouldings, Kick Strips l Dropside Sections & Systems l Slip-resistant ooring – Phenolic mesh-faced Birch wood plywood l Cappings – ABS & Aluminium/ABS l Patterned aluminium ooring sheet l GRP Panels Aalco...

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Aalco Product-7

Stainless Steel – Product Range Aalco stock all of the commonly required forms of stainless steel including sheet, coil, strip, plate, bar and sections as well as a full range of tube, pipe ttings and anges. In addition to a comprehensive range of standard products, Aalco Service Centres stock industry specic items and customer specials with numerous specialist products and alloys satisfying the needs of a broad range of industries. Aalco also provides a complete range of processing services that include bar, tube & pipe cutting; plate processing; coil processing and surface nishing. The Core...

 Open the catalog to page 7
Aalco Product-8

Stainless Steel – Introduction Stainless steel is not a single material but the name for an extensive range of corrosion resistant alloy steels. These alloys were rst developed early last century and by the 1920’s several types had been established. In the UK Harry Brearley developed a 13% chromium steel, whilst working on a steel to improve the wear characteristics of rie barrels. He observed that this steel only reacted slowly with his laboratory etching acids and when discarded sample pieces which were left outside in the rain did not rust, like lower chromium steel did. This “chromium/ carbon”...

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Aalco Product-9

Stainless Steel – Introduction Types of Stainless Steel (Families) Corrosion Resistance Stainless steels have “family” names that reect their metallurgical (atomic) structure. All stainless steels are able to resist some level of corrosion. There is a wide range of service media and different forms that corrosion attack can take. This is one reason why there are the four main families of stainless steels and why each has its own range of grades. Stainless steels all rely on the chromium content to form a corrosion resisting, tightly adherent, chromium-rich passive layer. This invisible, very...

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Aalco Product-10

Stainless Steel – Introduction around 60 HRC (Rockwell C). In contrast the precipitation hardening grades, despite their name, are mainly used for their heat treatable strength rather than hardness. l Toughness and ductility The properties of toughness and ductility usually go together, although they are different properties. Toughness is a measure of how much energy is absorbed by the metal during fracture. A brittle material has low toughness. Usually as temperatures get lower, the toughness of metals decreases. The austenitic stainless steels have excellent toughness, not only at ambient temperatures,...

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Aalco Product-11

Stainless Steel – Introduction additions are made, austenitic grades having between 7-13% Ni and the more exotic grades up to 30%Ni. These nickel additions are also responsible for the change in the steels structure from ferritic to austenitic. Structurally, between the ferritic and austenitic family grades are the duplex steels, with typically 3.5-6.5% Ni. Most of their corrosion resistance is derived from their chromium, molybdenum and nitrogen contents. The main function of the nickel is to “balance” the structure, which provides enhanced strength and resistance to stress corrosion cracking...

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*Prices are pre-tax. They exclude delivery charges and customs duties and do not include additional charges for installation or activation options. Prices are indicative only and may vary by country, with changes to the cost of raw materials and exchange rates.