AEROSPACE
Custom cut aluminium, stainless steel, copper, and brass provided to the aerospace industry.
PROVIDING METALS TO THE AEROSPACE INDUSTRY
When it comes to the aerospace sector, we understand the need for metal to be able to handle pressures and stresses caused by high altitudes, extreme heat and weather conditions.
Based on our 25 years’ experience supplying metals across a multitude of industries, we suggest the following metals for use in the aerospace industry. Alternatively, feel free to contact MG Metals where a member of our knowledgeable team can offer expert advice for your metal needs.
METALS FOR THE AEROSPACE INDUSTRY
These are the best metals suited for aerospace industry:
ALUMINIUM
Aluminium is the most used metal in the aerospace sector, largely in part to its light weight making it ideal for aircraft fuel efficiency and heavy loading.
Combined with its alloys, Aluminium is known for its strength and corrosion resistance, making it the perfect choice for machinery and engine components.
STAINLESS STEEL
Whilst Stainless Steel and its alloys are heavier than Aluminium, they also have a higher tensile strength and melting point.
It’s why we recommend Stainless Steel for engine and exhaust and landing gear components as well as key superstructure joints to improve durability and reduce the risk of failure during flight.
BRASS
Brass has a variety of uses due to its low melting point, easily casting ability and is corrosion resistant when combined with its alloys.
Brass is mostly used in aviation for nuts and bolts, as well as casing for electrical components.
COPPER
Copper is also a popular choice as it’s easily malleable, highly conductible and resistant to corrosion. Because of its ductile properties, Copper is ideal for resisting water and is used primarily in the electrical system for bus bars, bonding and as lockwire.
TYPES OF METAL AVAILABLE FOR YOUR AEROSPACE PROJECT
We have a large and diverse stock of inventory that includes a range of angles, bars, plates, sheets and tubes available, as well as miscellaneous and bespoke products.
METALS CUT TO SIZE
Our processing services consist of metal cutting experts who specialise in:
AEROSPACE FAQs
We stock a wide range of aerospace-grade metals, including:
- High-strength steels: 1.4305 (303), 1.4301/1.4307 (304/304L) and 1.4401/1.4404 (316/316L)
- Aluminium alloys: 1050, 1200, 5083, 6005, 6060, 6061, 6063, and 6082
- Copper
- Brass
- Bronze
Yes, we can provide various processing services to meet your specific needs. These include:
Absolutely! We have high-precision sawing and cutting machines that can achieve exceptionally low tolerances. Get in touch with our team for the specific tolerance we can achieve on each metal and component.
Yes, we can provide various surface finishes, including anodising, painting, powder coating, and polishing to meet your corrosion resistance and aesthetic requirements.
Lead times vary depending on the specific metal, thickness, and quantity required. However, we strive to provide fast turnaround times and can often accommodate urgent needs. Talk to our team about your needs for a more specific answer.
Yes! We custom cut all our metals to minimise waste, so you only pay for what you need. We also have solid connections with our suppliers, which is why we’re able to offer some of the most competitive pricing in the industry.
Our experienced team have in-depth knowledge of different metal properties and are here to help you make the right choice for your specific needs and applications. Reach out to us to discuss your project, and we’ll be happy to assist you.
Got questions about our services? Feel free to contact our team or explore our website for more information about our aerospace metals and services. We’re happy to discuss your specific requirements and provide custom quotes.
Metals play a crucial role in the aerospace industry thanks to their high strength-to-weight ratio, resistance to extreme temperatures and pressures, and excellent electrical and thermal conductivity. Here are just some of the areas where metals shine in aerospace:
- Aluminium: The workhorse of aerospace, aluminium forms the primary material for aircraft fuselages and wings due to its lightweight nature, good strength, and formability.
- Steel: Although heavier than aluminium, steel finds application in landing gear components and pressurised fuselages due to its immense strength and affordability. It’s also used in engine casings and mounts.
- Copper: Copper’s superior conductivity makes it ideal for electrical wiring throughout aircraft, from powering engines and instruments to transmitting data and signals.
- Brass: Brass and specific copper alloys resist corrosion from fuels, oils, and hydraulic fluids, allowing for reliable operation of these critical systems.
Which metal to use for an aerospace application depends on the required strength, weight, temperature resistance, cost, and machinability.
