Aluminum foam

Aluminum foams
sold by McMaster-Carr

Formed aluminum foam from Wikipedia link

Description

Lightweight metallic sheets formed air or gas injected into the molten material. 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