Melting point of aluminium

Aluminium is one of the most abundant metals in the earth's crust. It has a number of uses which include being used for cookware, industrial applications, in construction, transportation and aerospace. Its ability to resist corrosion and be recycled are key attributes.

At what temperature does aluminium melt?

Aluminium has a lower melting point compared to other metals like copper, iron and brass. In its pure form its melting point is recorded at approximately 660 degrees Celsius or 1220 degrees Fahrenheit.

The melting point of aluminium oxide is higher than the pure form of aluminium. Aluminium oxide melts at about 2,000 degrees Celsius. This is why the extraction of aluminium from aluminium oxide is done through electrolysis before the metal is melted.

In relation to melting, aluminium has a boiling point of approximately 2467 degrees Celsius. The melting and boiling points of aluminium are important factors considering the metal has exceptional recycling properties and can be used in various ways without any wastage. The melting of aluminium is vital in the recycling process.

Why is it important to determine the melting point of aluminium?

The melting point of aluminium or any other substance for that matter is a crucial physical property. Identifying the melting point of aluminium helps to identify impurities in the metal or to identify other unknown substances.

The melting point also helps to identify the general purity of the metal. When recycling aluminium, if it has a vast melting range, that means it has more impurities. The more the melting point range decreases, the purer the substance.

Factors affecting the melting point of aluminium

The above-stated melting point is when all factors are constant. But, depending on various aspects, the melting point of aluminium can change.

If the aluminium has impurities in it, the melting point is higher. There’s also a chance that it will vary over a wide temperature range. This is called a melting point depression. If the aluminium is pure, the melting point range varies within one or two degrees Celsius. If the melting point varies by more than five degrees Celsius that’s proof that there are impurities.

Other factors that could affect the melting point of aluminium and other substances include the composition of the molecules, how tightly the atoms are packed together and if pressure is applied during the heating process.

Melted aluminium can be moulded and used to make the same or different products. Because of its highly recyclable nature, aluminium can be melted and reused over and over without any wastage. In addition to being the most abundant metal, it also happens to be one of the most economical.