Aluminium

Material

Aluminium is a light metal that handles rain and fresh water well. Salt and chlorides can pit the bare metal, so rinse it after the sea. Browse the hardware.

Products: Aluminium

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What aluminium is

A light metal that forms a thin oxide layer in air; after a scratch, the layer quickly renews itself. Hardware is made from aluminium alloys, as pure aluminium would be too soft. This page lists pieces for which the manufacturer does not state the specific alloy, so both the alloy and the production method vary from product to product.

Why we use it for hardware

Where low weight is decisive: keychain carabiners and leash snap hooks, G-hooks, triangle rings, buckles, dog tags and whistles. A large part of the range is anodised or has a matte black finish; anodising also allows colour variants. Load capacity depends on the alloy and the design, so go by the figure given for the specific product.

When to choose it and when to look elsewhere

  • Lightweight collars, leashes, bags and key rings: it adds very little weight.
  • Rain and fresh water: it handles normal outdoor use well.

For regular contact with sea water, choose 316 stainless steel: chlorides can pit bare aluminium. If you are looking for a documented high-strength alloy, see 7075 alloy.

How it ages and how to care for it

Bare aluminium gradually loses its shine. Where it touches steel, stainless steel or brass parts, such as springs and pins, and stays wet, especially with salt, it can corrode faster at the point of contact. After sea water, rinse it with fresh water and let it dry.

Good to know

After steel, aluminium is the second most used metal in the world. According to the International Aluminium Institute, recycling saves about 95% of the energy needed to produce new aluminium.

Values describe the bare material without a surface finish; the finish page says what changes.

  • Price

    Mid-range

    A mid-range price class. Compare its specific durability, weight and finish with the less expensive alternatives before choosing.

  • Strength

    Medium

    Suitable for everyday products exposed to moderate loads. Repeated strong pulling may deform the material, so check the strength of the complete product for demanding uses.

  • Corrosion resistance

    Outdoor exposure

    Suitable for typical outdoor contact with rain and dew without a protective coating. More demanding environments, such as salt water or chemicals, require a different rating.

  • Water

    Fresh-water immersion

    Suitable for repeated wetting and immersion in fresh water. Any care requirements for the complete product still depend on its other materials and components.

Weight Very light The lowest weight class in this comparison. Useful for small products and accessories where every gram matters.
Allergy risk Low contact-reaction risk The material has a low risk of causing a contact reaction in normal use. Individual sensitivity varies, and the selected surface finish and other components also matter.
Aging Minor changes Over time slight dulling or minor surface changes may occur. This does not affect function, but is visible on closer inspection.
Maintenance No special care No special care is required. Rinse with water or wipe with a cloth when cleaning is needed.