Die casting differs from sand casting

Die casting differs from sand casting in that it utilizes re-usable moulds. It can also be carried out at a range of pressures including high pressure die casting, low pressure die casting, gravity die casting, vacuum die casting and squeeze die casting. Of these, high pressure die casting is the most popular accounting for about 50% of all light alloy casting production.
Transport Industry

The transport industry consumes nearly a quarter of all aluminium produced.  Aluminium is used not only in land-based transport forms such as cars, trucks and trains, but also bicycles, aerospace, ships and boats.

Key properties exploited by the transport industry include light weight leading to reduced fuel consumption, corrosion resistance and recyclability which is becoming increasingly important in view of recent EU directives for the automotive industry.

Aluminium is used for parts such as engine blocks, wheels, brake and suspension components and increasingly for chassis and body panels.
Packaging

The packaging industry consumes the bulk of the rolled aluminium produced. Rolled aluminium goes into making beverage cans, food containers and foil wrappings, which take advantage of properties such as strength, lightness, impermeability and its odourless nature.
Building and Construction Industry

Extruded, cast and rolled aluminium products are widely used in the building and construction industries. Typical applications include window frames and other glazed structures ranging from shop fronts to large roof superstructures for shopping centres and stadiums; for roofing, siding, and curtain walling, as well as for cast door handles, catches for windows, staircases, heating and air-conditioning systems.
Marine Applications

Aluminium has long been used for small boat hulls. Aluminium extrusions are becoming more common place in large ships where designers want to increase the above water line size without adding weight and instability. Hovercrafts, hydrofoils and multi-hulled vessels have also benefited from aluminium usage, where reduced weight translates directly into improved performance.

Aluminium has also become the material of choice for many offshore oil platforms applications where light weight, corrosion resistance and low maintenance are key factors.
Summary

Aluminium is a metal and can be processed in a similar manner to other metals such as steel, copper, brass or titanium. However, its properties such as light weight, corrosion resistance and conductivity, combined with sustainability have seen its’ widespread utilization and acceptance.

The future for aluminium remains bright, however, threats from alternative materials such as magnesium should not be ignored, with increasing production and reduced prices opening up areas of possibility.