What are the differences between pure aluminum and aluminum alloys?

Pure aluminum is a soft, lightweight, and highly malleable metal with good electrical and thermal conductivity. It is often used for its corrosion resistance and is relatively inexpensive. Aluminum alloys, on the other hand, are made by combining aluminum with other elements like copper, magnesium, silicon, or zinc to enhance its properties. These alloys are stronger, more durable, and can be tailored for specific applications, such as in aerospace, automotive, or construction. They offer improved strength-to-weight ratios, better resistance to heat and wear, and can be anodized for enhanced surface properties. While pure aluminum is more ductile and easier to weld, aluminum alloys provide greater versatility in terms of mechanical properties and performance.