What kind of aluminum does Ford use?
As the automotive industry evolves, manufacturers are increasingly turning to lightweight materials to enhance fuel efficiency and performance. Ford, a leader in automotive innovation, has embraced aluminum in various models. This article explores the types of aluminum Ford uses and the benefits associated with this choice.
Types of Aluminum Used by Ford
Ford primarily utilizes two types of aluminum alloys in its vehicles: 6000 series and 7000 series aluminum. Each of these alloys has unique properties that make them suitable for different applications within the vehicle.
- 6000 Series Aluminum: This alloy is known for its excellent corrosion resistance and good workability. It is commonly used in structural components, such as the body panels of the Ford F-150, which has significantly contributed to the truck's weight reduction.
- 7000 Series Aluminum: This alloy is primarily used in high-strength applications. It is often found in components that require enhanced strength-to-weight ratios, making it ideal for performance-oriented parts in Ford's sports models.
Benefits of Using Aluminum
The decision to use aluminum in Ford vehicles comes with several advantages:
- Weight Reduction: Aluminum is significantly lighter than steel, which helps improve fuel efficiency and overall vehicle performance.
- Corrosion Resistance: Aluminum naturally forms a protective oxide layer, making it resistant to rust and extending the lifespan of vehicle components.
- Recyclability: Aluminum is highly recyclable, which aligns with Ford's commitment to sustainability and reducing environmental impact.
Conclusion
Ford's use of aluminum, particularly the 6000 and 7000 series alloys, showcases the company's dedication to innovation and efficiency. By incorporating these materials, Ford not only enhances the performance of its vehicles but also contributes to a more sustainable automotive future.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who supplies Ford with aluminum?
A longtime supplier to Ford, Constellium currently provides aluminium extruded components and Auto Body Sheet for 10 additional Ford and Lincoln models.
Does Ford use recycled aluminum?
Ford leads charge in circular economy – and beyond
The largest closed-loop aluminium recycling automaker in the world, as per its 2022 Sustainability Report, the automaker uses the system to build its F-series, recovering up to 20 million pounds of high-strength, military-grade aluminium alloy per month.
What is the disadvantage of an aluminum truck?
Perhaps the worst knock against aluminum body construction is that it is very difficult to repair, particularly in collision repairs to panels and frames.
Does Ford still make aluminum bodies?
Since 2015, Ford has made their popular F-150 truck out of aluminum. Then, in 2017, they also started creating their F-Series Super-Duty trucks out of aluminum as well. This trend continues until today, with these two models using aluminum bodies, and all other Ford trucks having the typical steel bodies.
Are Ford trucks still made of aluminum?
Since 2015, Ford has made their popular F-150 truck out of aluminum. Then, in 2017, they also started creating their F-Series Super-Duty trucks out of aluminum as well. This trend continues until today, with these two models using aluminum bodies, and all other Ford trucks having the typical steel bodies.
What grade of aluminum does Ford use?
The reduced weight of the high-strength, military-grade, aluminum alloys enables the F-150 to tow and haul more than ever while also improving acceleration, braking and handling performance. Adding to these benefits, aluminum alloys will not rust and are resistant to corrosion, helping enhance vehicle life.
What companies use recycled aluminum?
It turns out that Novelis, which booked $9.8bn in revenue last year, is selling plenty of recycled aluminum to the auto industry. Driven largely by fuel-efficiency regulations, automakers including Ford, Jaguar Land Rover, Audi and BMW are all substituting lighter-weight aluminum for steel.
Is the Ford aluminum body strong?
The aluminum body F-150 has proved that you can have a lighter truck without compromising on capability and durability. Durability and Corrosion Resistance: Aluminum does not rust like traditional steel, which gives the Ford F-250 aluminum body a considerable advantage in terms of longevity and maintenance costs.
What grade of aluminum is used in the automotive industry?
Types and applications of aluminum alloys for vehicles
| Alloy designation | Use in automobiles | |
|---|---|---|
| AA | ||
| 5000 Al-Mg | 5182 | Body panels (interior) |
| 5154 | Wheels, underbody components, drivetrain components, suspension components | |
| 5022 | Bonnets, roofs, doors, pillars, oil pans, floors, rear fenders, air cleaner housings |
Are super duty Fords aluminum?
Means that fuel consumption. Goes down. And towing and payload capabilities go up another great reason to own an F-250.
