Aluminium is one of the most widely used metals in the construction industry. Its durability, lightweight nature, and high strength-to-weight ratio make it an attractive building material with numerous benefits. One of the main forms in which Aluminium is utilized in construction is in the form of coils. They are used in roofing, siding, gutters, and architectural cladding due to their lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and durable properties. Aluminium coils, which are typically made by cold rolling of Aluminium sheets, are highly versatile and can be used for various applications. In this blog post, we’ll explore the uses of Aluminium coils in construction and why it’s such a popular choice.
What are Aluminium Coils?
Aluminium coils are long, continuous strips of Aluminium that are wound into various sizes and thicknesses for different applications. These coils are typically manufactured through cold rolling, where Aluminium ingots are passed through a series of rollers to reduce their thickness and create uniform, flat Aluminium sheets. This sheet is then wound into a coil for storage and transportation.
These coils are available in different alloy compositions, sizes, and surface finishes to suit specific applications. The choice of an Aluminium coil depends on factors such as the intended use, environmental conditions, and required mechanical properties. Aluminium coils are known for their corrosion resistance, low density, and excellent thermal and electrical conductivity.
Uses of Aluminium coils in construction
Roofing and Cladding
Aluminium coils are often used in roofing and cladding applications due to their hygienic, non-corrosive, and waterproof nature. They are highly adaptable and can be coated to mimic the appearance of wood, stone, or tiles. Aluminium coils for roofing and cladding can be pre-painted or coated with a highly durable finish, making them resistant to weathering, impact, and fading. Due to their lightweight nature, Aluminium coils are easy to install and can reduce the overall load on the building structure, making them an ideal choice for high-rise buildings.
Gutters and Downpipes
Aluminium coils are also widely used for making gutters and downpipes. They are preferred over steel or other materials due to their resistance to corrosion and the fact that they do not require additional coatings or treatments. Aluminium coils for gutter and downpipe applications typically have a thickness of 0.7-1.2mm, which provides the required strength to handle water flow and reduce clogging. Additionally, Aluminium gutters and downpipes are maintenance-free and do not rust in harsh weather conditions.
Ceiling Systems
Aluminium coils are also commonly used in building ceiling systems. They can be fabricated into various shapes and sizes, and their lightweight nature makes them easy to install. Aluminium ceiling coils can be perforated or non-perforated, depending on the application requirements. Perforated Aluminium coils are often used for acoustic ceilings to help absorb noise and provide a more comfortable environment. Non-perforated Aluminium coils, on the other hand, are more commonly used for decorative purposes due to their aesthetic appeal and ease of maintenance.
Insulation Jacketing
Another important use of Aluminium coils in construction is for insulation jacketing applications. Aluminium coils cover insulation materials such as fiberglass or mineral wool, protecting them from damage due to moisture or physical impact. Aluminium insulation jacketing coils are typically coated with a protective film that provides an additional defence against corrosion and degradation. They are also highly reflective, which helps to further enhance the insulation properties of the underlying materials.
Facade Systems
Finally, Aluminium coils are a key component in building facade systems. Aluminium coils can be fashioned into various cladding shapes and incorporated into curtain wall systems or other facade designs. They can be coated in various colors or finishes, making them suitable for functional and aesthetic applications. Aluminium facade systems are highly durable and can withstand harsh weather conditions, making them a preferred choice for commercial and industrial building applications.
Conclusion:
Aluminium coils are a versatile and reliable component in construction, offering numerous benefits over other building materials. They provide a lightweight and durable solution for roofing and cladding, gutters and downpipes, ceiling systems, insulation jacketing, and facade systems. The properties of Aluminium, combined with the versatility of coils, make it an attractive option for architects and builders. By leveraging the versatility of Aluminium coils, construction firms can create visually appealing and sustainable buildings that stand the test of time.