Aluminum alloy combines aluminum with elements such as silicon, iron, copper, and magnesium. Because of its ductility and convenient melting point, it adapts well to industrial production.

It also resists corrosion, offers high strength, and polishes easily. Unlike many other metals, aluminum alloy keeps its appearance over time, which explains why industries rely on it in construction, architecture, and consumer goods.

In Vietnam, aluminum alloys play a central role in the country’s fast-growing manufacturing sector. As a “China+1” alternative, Vietnam offers cost efficiency, global compliance, and reliable capacity. Vietnam Outsourcing (VNO) helps U.S. and EU buyers work with trusted Vietnamese suppliers, ensuring high-quality products and smooth supply chain operations.

Classification of Aluminum Alloys

Manufacturers often add alloying elements such as copper (Cu), manganese (Mn), magnesium (Mg), silicon (Si), tin (Sn), and zinc (Zn) to improve aluminum’s performance.

We can classify aluminum alloys into two main groups:

1. Wrought Alloys

Producers create wrought alloys by smelting aluminum ingots with alloying elements, then casting them into plates. They roll, forge, or pull these plates into billets of different shapes. Because this process eliminates most casting defects, wrought alloys deliver higher strength. Today, about 85% of industrial aluminum alloys are wrought alloys.

2. Cast Alloys

Producers make cast alloys by melting bauxite ore, extracting aluminum, and pouring it into molds with alloying elements. Although this method allows complex shapes, it consumes more energy and often produces alloys with lower strength compared to wrought alloys.

Characteristics of Alloying Elements

Each alloying element adds unique benefits:

• Copper (Cu): Improves durability and formability.
• Silicon (Si): Lowers melting temperature, increases fluidity, and enhances casting quality.
• Manganese (Mn): Boosts strength and toughness.
• Magnesium (Mg): Improves durability and corrosion resistance.
• Magnesium + Silicon (Mg/Si): Enhances tensile strength and formability.
• Zinc (Zn): When combined with Mg and Cu, it delivers excellent strength.

Other elements support performance as well:

• Cr, Zr, V, Ni, Ti, Sc: Refine grain structure and stabilize properties.
• Fe: Reduces residual stress.
• Se, Bi, Pb, Sn: Improve machinability but reduce weldability.

Common Aluminum Alloys

Several grades stand out for their strength and applications:

• 6061 Alloy: Strong, corrosion-resistant, and weldable; used in aerospace and automotive.
• 6063 Alloy: Provides excellent surface finish, popular in doors and windows.
• 7075 Alloy: Offers very high strength; common in aerospace and defense.
• 8020 Alloy: Well-known for machinability and stability.
• 6061-T6 Alloy: A heat-treated version of 6061, ideal for heavy-duty applications.

Notable Properties of Aluminum

Aluminum alloys remain valuable not only for their strength but also for their physical properties:

• Oxidation: Forms a natural oxide layer that protects against corrosion.
• Specific Heat: Transfers heat efficiently, making it useful for cooling systems.
• Corrosion Resistance: Performs well in diverse environments, especially when anodized.

Why Vietnam Is a Strong Source for Aluminum Alloy

Vietnam has become one of Asia’s most competitive hubs for aluminum extrusion and machining. The advantages include:

• Cost efficiency: Lower production costs compared to China and India.
• Supply stability: Strong logistics links to U.S. and EU markets.
• Quality standards: Factories meet ISO, ASTM, and RoHS certifications.
• Skilled workforce: Engineers trained in advanced extrusion and machining.

Through VNO, buyers gain access to reliable Vietnamese manufacturers. Acting as a technical partner and supply chain bridge, VNO ensures consistent quality and compliance for global clients.

Final Thoughts

Aluminum alloy has become one of the most important materials in modern industry, covering construction, transportation, aerospace, and consumer products. With Vietnam’s growing competitiveness and VNO’s expertise, international buyers can source aluminum products with confidence and efficiency. For deep insight of Vietnamese market, you might want to read aluminum manufacturing in Vietnam