A successful construction project calls for more than expert building skills. The equipment used behind-the-scenes serves as the foundation for how well the end results turn out, which is why choosing the right tools for the job is so crucial.
Among the many decisions you’ll need to make, the choice of tooling plate stands out in particular. It will need to serve as a stable, flat base for mounting all kinds of machinery, tools, fixtures, and workpieces, so it’s important to choose the right metal for it. But which is best? Steel, aluminium, or something else entirely?
As specialists supplying custom-cut metal components, we at MG Metals understand firsthand the importance of choosing the right components for the job – and we know that in many cases, aluminium emerges as the top contender. Keep reading to uncover the five key benefits of incorporating aluminium plates into your next project!
1. Lightweight
Aluminium tooling plate is significantly lighter than steel, making it easier to transport from site to site. The lightweight nature of aluminium also contributes to easier installation and lowers the load on supporting structures.
2. High Strength-to-Weight Ratio
Despite being lightweight, aluminium tooling plate boasts a high strength-to-weight ratio. This means it provides excellent structural strength and durability while keeping the overall weight of the construction elements comparatively low. This is especially advantageous in applications where weight is a critical factor, such as aerospace or automotive construction.
Corrosion-Resistant
Aluminium is naturally corrosion-resistant, thanks to its ability to form a protective oxide layer on its surface. This resistance to corrosion makes aluminium tooling plate an ideal choice for construction projects in environments where exposure to moisture, chemicals, or harsh weather conditions is a concern. It helps in maintaining the structural integrity of the material over time.
Dimensionally Stable
Aluminium has a low coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE), meaning it expands and contracts less with temperature changes. This property makes aluminium tooling plates ideal for applications where consistent dimensions and thermal stability are crucial.
Thermal Conductivity
Aluminium has excellent thermal conductivity properties. In construction projects, this can be advantageous for applications where heat dissipation or thermal management is important. For example, in electronic enclosures or structures exposed to temperature variations, aluminium tooling plate can help in efficiently transferring and dissipating heat, preventing the buildup of excessive temperatures.
Choose MG Metals for Premium Aluminium Tooling Plate, Cut to Your Specs
As the UK’s top providers of precision-cut metal, we offer custom aluminium tooling plate that meets even the most complex requirements. Sourced from high-quality metal and available in a variety of grades and thicknesses, it’s ideal for virtually any application you can think of.
We understand that delays cost you time and money. That’s why we process and ship orders within 2-5 days, so you can move on to your next manufacturing phase in no time.
If you’re ready to get started, you can get a quote on aluminium tooling plate online or call us on 01794 521070 today.