ABSTRACT
Aluminium in the form of castings, forgings, plate, sheet, strip, foil, extruded sections and tube are all manufactured in the UK and are available direct from the manufacturers. Sheet is available in a range of thicknesses and sizes with impressed decorative patterns. Stucco-embossing which gives a ‘mottled’ effect is commonly used on building sheet to reduce glare and light reflectivity. Aluminium owes its excellent weathering characteristics to the tough, adherent oxide film that is always present on its surface when in contact with, or following any contact with, the atmosphere. In aggressive environments, such as marine and particularly polluted industrial areas, the rate of oxide formation may be increased with a consequent adverse effect on appearance. Aluminium is a popular choice for covering swimming pools and small reservoirs. The strength and lightness of the metal are advantageous for covering wide spans with a minimum of supporting structure.
