What is a key characteristic of aluminum in structural repairs?

A key characteristic of aluminum in structural repairs is that it is lightweight but requires specific techniques for welding. Aluminum is known for its low density, which contributes to reduced overall weight in structures while still maintaining good strength-to-weight ratios. This quality makes aluminum advantageous in structural applications, especially where weight savings are crucial.

However, welding aluminum differs significantly from welding steel. It has a lower melting point and reacts differently during the welding process, which necessitates the use of specialized techniques and equipment. This includes considerations for joint design, preheating, and the choice of filler materials, as well as controlling the heat input to avoid issues like warping or cracking. This understanding ensures that structural integrity is maintained in repairs involving aluminum.

Although aluminum does have other favorable properties, such as corrosion resistance, its need for specific welding techniques is critical for successful repairs and is what distinguishes it in this context.