Architectural

In the architectural industry, a variety of metals are used for different purposes including:

• Aluminum: used for building facades, window frames, and curtain walls due to its light weight and durability.
• Steel: used for structural elements such as beams, columns, and bracing due to its high strength and stability.
• Stainless Steel: used for cladding, railings, and other decorative elements due to its aesthetic appeal and resistance to corrosion.

In building facades, window frames, and curtain walls, the most commonly used aluminum grades are:

• 3003: a medium strength alloy with good formability and good corrosion resistance.
• 6063: a medium strength alloy with excellent formability and good resistance to corrosion and weathering.
• 6061: a high strength alloy with good formability and excellent resistance to corrosion and weathering.
• 5052: a high strength alloy with good formability and good resistance to corrosion and weathering.

These alloys are typically used in their T5 or T6 temper, which provide the desired combination of strength, formability, and durability for these applications.

In the architectural industry, the most commonly used grades of stainless steel for claddings, railings, and other decorative elements are:

• 304: a versatile grade with good corrosion resistance and is often referred to as “18/8” stainless steel, because it contains 18% chromium and 8% nickel.
• 316: a higher corrosion resistant grade that also contains molybdenum for improved performance in harsh environments.
• 201: a lower-cost alternative to 304 with good corrosion resistance, often used for indoor and less demanding outdoor applications.
• 430: a lower-cost alternative to 304 with good formability and limited resistance to corrosion, often used for indoor applications.

These grades are typically used in their 2B or #4 finish, which provides a smooth, aesthetically pleasing surface suitable for these applications.