The use of aluminum reduces vehicle weight and saves fuel. The amount of aluminum used in light trucks has increased from less than 45∙4kg per vehicle in the late 1970s to nearly 113∙5kg in 1999, and is now everywhere. Most of the alloys used for light truck processing are 6061 alloys, which are mainly used for forging wheels, extruded frame parts and heat shields made of their sheets.
Example introduction of aluminum for light trucks
hub
The fastest growing application of aluminum in vehicles is the wheel hub. In the past few years, the 6061 alloy cast wheel hub and the wheel hub processed from the 5454 alloy sheet and thick plate have grown significantly.
Chassis and Suspension
The use of aluminum for cast directional joints and levers, cast and extruded cross members, and engine trays has been increasing. The main factor for the increase is that such components have good structural integrity, and the compact structure can fully save the limited space of the vehicle.
Guards and Body Structures
The factor of aluminum body structure production depends on the production volume of aluminum radiator support frames on cargo trucks. The radiator support frame of the truck is made of 6061 alloy extruded material.
heat exchanger
The average amount of aluminum used in the heat exchange system of each light truck is 14.13kg. In fact, each radiator, condenser, evaporator and heater core is 100% made of aluminum. 3005 alloy copper brazing sheet and 3003 alloy ribbed plate are used for radiator, evaporator and heater core, and the amount of aluminum used in this part accounts for 50% of the amount of aluminum used in heat exchangers.
