Aluminum is one of the most widely used non-ferrous metals across industries ranging from aerospace and automotive to packaging and construction. Its thermal characteristics—especially its melting temperature—are critical in processes like casting, welding, and extrusion. Understanding what temp aluminum melts at is essential for engineers, manufacturers, and procurement professionals dealing with high-temperature applications or material selection.
What Temperature Does Pure Aluminum Melt?
Pure aluminum melts at a precise temperature of 660.3°C (1220.5°F). This relatively low melting point makes aluminum ideal for manufacturing processes that require energy efficiency and precise thermal control, such as die casting, rolling, and thermal forming.
How Aluminum Alloys Affect Melting Point
While pure aluminum has a well-defined melting point, most industrial applications use aluminum alloys, which contain varying percentages of elements like copper, magnesium, silicon, zinc, or manganese. These additives change the melting behavior of aluminum, often resulting in a melting range rather than a single temperature.
Alloy Series
Common Elements
Melting Range (°C)
Melting Range (°F)
1xxx (Pure Aluminum)
99%+ Aluminum
645–658°C
1193–1216°F
2xxx
Copper
510–638°C
950–1180°F
5xxx
Magnesium
570–640°C
1058–1184°F
6xxx
Magnesium & Silicon
555–650°C
1031–1202°F
7xxx
Zinc
475–635°C
887–1175°F
Why Melting Point Matters in Industrial Applications
The melting temperature of aluminum affects not just how it's processed but also where it can be applied. Key industrial considerations include:
Welding and Brazing: Avoiding deformation or overheating during joining processes.
Casting and Extrusion: Ensuring proper fluidity and mold fill characteristics.
Thermal Management: Applications in electronics and heat exchangers benefit from predictable thermal behavior.
Structural Integrity: High-heat environments require careful alloy selection to prevent softening or failure.
Common Aluminum Grades and Their Melting Ranges
Grade
Alloy Series
Melting Range (°C)
Applications
6061
6xxx
582–652°C
Structural components, piping, marine parts
7075
7xxx
475–635°C
Aerospace, sports equipment, tooling
2024
2xxx
500–638°C
Aircraft structures, transportation
Aluminum vs. Other Metals: Melting Point Comparison
Compared to other common engineering metals, aluminum has a relatively low melting point, which offers advantages in processing but may limit its use in extreme-temperature environments.
Metal
Melting Point (°C)
Melting Point (°F)
Aluminum
660°C
1220°F
Steel (Carbon)
1425–1540°C
2600–2800°F
Copper
1085°C
1985°F
Zinc
419.5°C
787°F
FAQ
What temp does aluminum melt at?
Pure aluminum melts at 660.3°C (1220.5°F). Alloys may melt at lower or higher temperatures depending on their composition.
Do aluminum alloys melt at the same temperature?
No. Aluminum alloys melt over a range of temperatures, typically between 475°C and 660°C, depending on the alloying elements.
Why is aluminum’s melting point important in industry?
It determines how the material can be cast, welded, extruded, or used in high-temperature environments. The lower melting point also affects thermal management applications.
Can aluminum be used in high-heat environments?
While aluminum has excellent heat conductivity, it may soften or lose strength at elevated temperatures. Choosing the right alloy is essential for thermal performance and safety.
Where can I source high-quality aluminum materials?
We supply industrial-grade aluminum sheets, bars, and alloys for export worldwide. Contact us today for pricing, datasheets, and bulk orders tailored to your project.
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