Use

The German aluminium industry is an important driving force for the economy and society. As a metal, aluminium stands for useful, durable, reliable and safe products. Thanks to its properties and its universal range of uses, aluminium can be found almost everywhere. You can gain an insight into the different fields of application for aluminium here. Photo credit: KM Yachtbuilders

Driving force for innovation

Innovative developments are possible in virtually every field thanks to aluminium’s specific properties: in the fabrication of plant and machinery, engines, the whole range of different methods of transport and transportation through to fashion and the fine arts. Aluminium combines functionality, economic efficiency and aesthetics, and this coupled with the inventive capabilities of manufacturers means innovations are continuously being created.

For manufacturers, aluminium’s lightness saves weight. Plant and machinery are thus more energy efficient and movement sequences, such as those made by robots, can be faster and production can be increased. The time needed to complete manufacturing processes can often be reduced by combining different functions in a single, multifunctional aluminium component. New types of alloy help reduce the amount of material used and conserve our resources in doing so.

Using aluminium, one can continuously achieve best-ever performances in the areas of economic efficiency and ecology. As examples, one can mention the so-called three litre car with its fuel consumption of three litres per 100 kilometres, or façade systems that make considerable energy savings, are reliable and can also withstand the effects of extreme weather conditions without any maintenance requirements.

Aluminium in the transport sector

Aluminium is used here mainly in the lightweight construction of cars, commercial vehicles, aircraft, trains and ships. This includes interior fittings, body, engine blocks, cylinder heads, boot lids, doors, wheels and many other items. If aluminium were to be used wherever possible in cars, weight savings alone would result in a fuel saving of 1.3 litres per 100 kilometres. With commercial vehicles, the outcome would be even better because the payload increases with decreasing dead weight. Photo: AUDI AG

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Aluminium in building and construction

Architects, builders and clients place their trust in aluminium. Whether it be for windows or doors, façade cladding, roof and wall systems, fittings, handles, gratings, aluminium foil used in heat insulation and so on. Thanks to its functional and at the same time aesthetically pleasing attributes, aluminium offers considerable benefits when it comes to the building and use of a property. Photo: Elbphilharmonie/Maxim Schulz

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Design, household and leisure

Whether it be for pitons in mountaineering, cycles, camping equipment, design furniture, pots, pans, cutlery, lamps, picture frames or handles for cupboards – aluminium creates perceived value without impairing functionality. Photo: Specialized Germany

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Aluminium in the packaging sector

In packaging, aluminium is a real all-rounder: it protects foodstuffs and chemical preparations against external influences that adversely affect quality. In addition, the use of aluminium packaging saves space during transport. Photo: Behrendt & Rausch

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Mechanical engineering and plant manufacturing

Industrial robots and machines achieve their precision and mobility not least because of the low mass of the components and parts. Machine parts, which are preferably made from castings, forgings or sheet, thus speed up manufacturing processes.

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Aluminium in electrical engineering

Aluminium offers many benefits in electronics, electrical engineering and air conditioning technology: aluminium housings that dissipate heat optimally, power cables that can also be used economically in inaccessible areas because of their lightness, or windings in transformers that make motors even more efficient. Photo: Erbslöh

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Statistics

The aluminium industry

The aluminium industry is an important driving force for the economy and society. In the Statistics section, you will find the latest data for the most important indicators – in the form of graphics or tables.

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The metal

Present in nature and of service to mankind

Aluminium is a universal material with many good properties. You will find more information on the production, processing and recycling of aluminium here.

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Downloads

Technical information and brochures

Find out more about the metal aluminium. In our Download section, most of our informative brochures are available as a PDF free of charge.

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