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Common Grades
Aluminum round tubes come in a wide range of different finishes, including anodized. The interior is generally smooth with no seams. It is available in two variants: a more affordable extruded structural aluminum round tube or a more expensive drawn seamless form for those higher precision applications. Select from one of the available grades below to start your order, or contact your closest store for assistance with metal sourcing.
Lightweight – Aluminum round tubes are low-density, making them significantly lighter than many other metals. This lightweight nature is advantageous in applications where weight reduction is essential, such as transportation, aerospace, and portable structures. It eases handling, transportation, and installation while still providing structural integrity.
Strength-to-Weight Ratio – Although lightweight, aluminum round tubes exhibit high strength and an impressive strength-to-weight ratio. This property allows for light and efficient structures without compromising strength and durability. It is particularly valuable in applications where load-bearing capacity is essential.
Corrosion Resistance – Aluminum round tubes naturally form a thin, protective oxide layer on their surface, which provides excellent corrosion resistance. The oxide layer acts as a barrier, protecting the underlying metal from environmental factors, moisture, and corrosive substances. This corrosion resistance ensures long-term durability and reduces maintenance requirements.
Thermal Conductivity – Aluminum has excellent thermal conductivity, making aluminum round tubes suitable for heat transfer applications. They efficiently dissipate heat and can be used in heat exchangers, radiators, and other thermal management systems.
Versatility and Formability – Aluminum round tubes can be easily formed, shaped, and fabricated to meet specific requirements. They can be cut, welded, bent, or joined using various techniques. This versatility enables customization and flexibility in designing structures or components for different applications. However, if you need to weld your tubes, remember that aluminum tubes need special procedures to be welded because the welding wears off from tooling.
Construction and Architecture – Aluminum round tubes are used in the construction and architectural sectors for structural frameworks, handrails, curtain walls, and window frames. Their lightweight nature, corrosion resistance, and ability to withstand structural loads make them ideal for these applications.
Automotive and Transportation – Aluminum round tubes are employed in the automotive and transportation industries for applications such as roll cages, chassis components, engine parts, and exhaust systems. Their lightweight nature helps improve fuel efficiency and enhance overall vehicle performance.
HVAC and Plumbing – Aluminum round tubes are utilized in heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC) systems, and plumbing installations. Due to their corrosion resistance and thermal conductivity properties, they are used for ductwork, piping, and conduits.
Industrial and Manufacturing – Aluminum round tubes are widely used in industrial applications. Due to their strength, lightweight, and resistance to corrosion and temperature variations, they serve as structural components, conveyor systems, machine frames, and supports.
Electrical and Electronics – Aluminum round tubes are employed in electrical and electronic applications, such as antenna masts, heat sinks, and electrical enclosures. Their high thermal conductivity helps dissipate heat efficiently in electronic devices.
Recreation and Sports Equipment – Aluminum round tubes are used to manufacture sports equipment like bicycle frames, camping gear, and outdoor furniture. Their lightweight nature, durability, and corrosion resistance make them suitable for various recreational applications.
Marine and Offshore Structures – Aluminum round tubes find applications in marine and offshore structures due to their resistance to corrosion in saltwater environments. They are utilized for boat railings, supports, and other structural components.
Aluminum round tubing is available in several grades, the most common being 6061 and 6063. A 6061 round aluminum tube is formable, machinable, and weldable, offering an excellent strength-to-weight ratio for structural components. This aluminum alloy is heat-treatable and commonly anodized to reinforce its corrosion prevention. 6063 aluminum round tubing, or the architectural alloy, has relatively low strength and a smooth surface finish. Common applications include railings, trim, and structural applications.