Aluminium: ecological alternative for automotive industry

EC regulations on CO2 emissions from motor vehicles can be also complied with though reduction of the vehicle weights by replacing parts in steel with parts in aluminium. However, these efforts are impeded by the fact that some mechanical characteristics of aluminium and its conventional alloys do not cope with mechanical characteristics of high-grade steels.

Sapa has been working with research institutes and manufacturers of non-ferrous metals in developing materials, which could be potentially used for various automotive parts in the future. As a result, Sapa launched series production of profiles using a technology of hot extrusion of the powder billets in 2004.  It is a unique technology in Europe, and Sapa is the leader in this field. Profiles extruded from powder billets are characteristic by the high silicon content – up to 12 % (common used aluminium alloys contain 0.5 – 1 % of Si). This is the high silicon content that gives new material properties suitable for its use in those industrial applications requiring dimensional and microstructure stability at elevated temperatures, good resistance to abrasion as well as high strength at proper ductility. Components manufactured from this material offer several advantages over components in steel - saving of weight (the component is three times lighter), low inertia of moving parts and dimensional stability at elevated temperatures. The material is easy in machining and currently recognized for excellent applications in automotive industry.

Sapa plans to continue development of this technology and will participate in developing other new materials which meet requirements of the car makers and their sub-suppliers.

More information about material available HERE.