ALUMINIUM PLATE, TOOLING PLATE & PLATE PROCESSING SERVICES
With aluminium plates ranging from 6mm to 152.4mm, we’ve got you covered for your next job. All products are cut to size.
SPECIALIST SUPPLIERS OF ALUMINIUM PLATES
MG Metals are proud to be one of the UK’s leading suppliers of aluminium plates and tooling plates, carrying an extensive stock range. We also offer a professional sawing service, so we can provide you with cut to size plates. Our cutting-edge equipment and skilled technicians ensure accurate cuts that not only save you time but also help you optimise costs and minimise waste.
TAILORED ALUMINIUM PLATE SIZING
Our aluminium plates are cut using the latest machinery and technology to a tolerance of –0, +2mm. The material is handled using vacuum lifts and supported with air beds. We have a highly skilled team of fully trained operators with many years’ experience working within the industry who will ensure your fabrications arrive with you in excellent condition. Our standard aluminium plate range is 6mm – 152.40mm (6”).
Thanks to our ongoing investment in aluminium plate stock and processing services, we’re proud to frequently offer a quick delivery service.
WHAT IS ALUMINIUM PLATE?
Aluminium plates are flat sheets of aluminium metal that come in various sizes, thicknesses, and alloys. They are widely used in numerous industries due to their favourable properties, including being lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and easily malleable. These plates are fabricated from high-quality aluminium alloys through processes like rolling or casting.
TYPES OF ALUMINIUM PLATE WE STOCK
We stock aluminium plates and aluminium tooling plates in a range of grades, all precision cut to the exact dimensions you need for your project:
ALUMINIUM PLATES
ALUMINIUM TOOLING PLATES
To find out more about our range of aluminium plates, don’t hesitate to contact us on 01794 521070. Alternatively, browse our range and order online!
PROPERTIES OF OUR ALUMINIUM PLATES
Our aluminium plates and tooling plates possess a range of exceptional properties that make them a preferred choice for various applications:
Strength-to-Weight Ratio
Aluminium plates offer impressive strength while remaining lightweight, making them suitable for applications where structural integrity and reduced weight are essential.
Corrosion Resistance
The inherent corrosion resistance of aluminium plates makes them ideal for outdoor and marine applications, as they can withstand exposure to harsh environmental conditions.
Thermal Conductivity
Aluminium plates efficiently conduct and dissipate heat, making them valuable in industries that require temperature regulation, such as electronics and automotive engineering.
Electrical Conductivity
Aluminium plates exhibit good electrical conductivity, making them useful in electrical applications that require efficient current flow.
Versatility
Aluminium plates come in diverse grades and alloys, each tailored to specific requirements, allowing for a wide range of applications.
Non-Toxic
Aluminium is non-toxic and non-reactive, making it safe for applications involving food and health.
COMMON USES FOR ALUMINIUM PLATES
WHERE ARE ALUMINIUM PLATES USED?
- Construction: Aluminium plates are used as structural components in buildings, bridges, and infrastructure due to their strength-to-weight ratio and corrosion resistance.
- Automotive: In the automotive industry, aluminium plates serve as body panels, engine components, and structural elements, contributing to improved fuel efficiency and performance.
- Aerospace: Aluminium plates find application in aircraft construction, including fuselage components, wings, and structural parts, due to their lightweight and durable characteristics.
- Marine: Aluminium plates are used in shipbuilding for hulls, decks, and superstructures, as their corrosion resistance is well-suited to the maritime environment.
WHERE ARE ALUMINIUM TOOLING PLATES USED?
- Precision Engineering: Aluminium tooling plates are critical for precision machinery, jigs, and fixtures in industries such as electronics and optics, ensuring accurate alignments and measurements.
- Optical Instruments: They serve as stable bases for optical instruments like telescopes, microscopes, and laser systems, maintaining consistent alignments for optimal performance.
- Calibration: They play a role in metrology by providing a reliable reference surface for calibration instruments, ensuring accurate measurements.
- Prototyping: Aluminium tooling plates are used to create accurate prototypes and models in various industries, including product design and research.
ALUMINIUM PLATE FAQs
Aluminium plates and sheets both come in flat, thin forms, but they differ in thickness. Plates are thicker, typically over 6 mm, and are used for structural purposes. Aluminium Sheets are thinner, usually 6mm or less, and are often used for decorative, lightweight applications.
The strength of a 3mm aluminium plate varies based on the alloy used. Generally, aluminium has a tensile strength of around 170-310 MPa. However, this can differ between alloys and tempering processes.
The rigidity of an aluminium plate depends on its size, shape, and the load it will bear. In general, plates around 6 mm thickness and above tend to offer rigidity for most applications.
Aluminium is lighter than steel but has lower tensile strength. Steel is generally stronger, but aluminium’s strength-to-weight ratio makes it competitive in many applications.
No, aluminium does not rust like iron or steel. Rust is a term specifically used for the corrosion of iron and its alloys. Aluminium, on the other hand, forms a natural oxide layer when exposed to air, which acts as a protective barrier against corrosion. This oxide layer prevents the aluminium from rusting.
However, aluminium can undergo a process called “oxidation,” where the surface can become dull or discoloured over time due to exposure to the elements, but this is not the same as rusting.
Among common aluminium alloys, 7075 is often considered one of the strongest due to its high tensile strength and excellent mechanical properties. However, the most suitable grade of aluminium plate will depend on the specific properties needed for your application.
OUR ALUMINIUM RANGE
We also have an extensive inventory of stainless steel, mild steel, brass, copper and bronze. Contact us today to arrange a quote.
