Can Plasma Cut Aluminum?

Aluminum is a silvery whitish metal that is very malleable and conductive. It is rarely used by itself, but made into aluminum alloys by mixing it with other elements such as copper or silicon. It can be cut using plasma-arc cutting methods in which an electrical arc is carried to the metal using ionized gas to carry the current between a cathode and the metal.

Availability

Aluminum is an abundant element in the Earth's crust, but it does not occur as a free element in nature.

Production

New aluminum is obtained largely through the electrolysis of crystalline alumina. Aluminum can also be obtained through recycling.

Element Information

Aluminum is designated on the periodic table by the symbol Al, has an atomic weight of 13 and a melting point of approximately 660 degrees C.

History

Until 1925, aluminum was an acceptable alternative name for aluminum. The American Chemical Society ultimately made the decision to use the term aluminum exclusively.

Fun Fact

Aluminum can be produced from clay, but it is a very expensive process.

References

• Aluminum
• Plasma Cutting Stainless Steel and Aluminum