Aluminum foam
Formed aluminum foam from Wikipedia link
Description
Lightweight metallic sheets formed air or gas injected into the molten aluminum. Aluminum foams are very strong, nonflammable and eco-friendly. They are available both in closed cell and open cell forms.
Synonyms and Related Terms
foamed aluminum; metal sponge
Commercial products: Duocel
Applications
- Sound insulation
- Architectural facades
- Lightweight case construction
- Heat exchangers
Physical and Chemical Properties
- Lightweight with high strength to weight ratio
- Density (relative to solid As) = 4-12% is most common
- Compression strength = 367 psi (at 8% relative density)
- Tensile strength = 180 psi (at 8% relative density)
- Melting point = 1220f (660C)
Working Properties
- Carbide- or diamond-tipped blades are required for machining
- Joined by brazing, adhesive bonding, mechanical fasteners, or soldering
Forms and Sizes
- Thicknesses from 1/2" to 2"
- Sheets available 6'x6' or 12'x12' (McMaster-Carr)
Resources and Citations
- Wikipedia: Metal foam Accessed Feb. 2024
- McMaster-Carr: Aluminum foam