ADVANTAGES OF ALUMINUM
- Aluminum is very light. This is a crucial requirement for all transport and shipping
containers.
- Aluminum is very strong and resistant to impacts. Impacts may show on the exterior but
the energy from the impact is absorbed within the distortion and not transferred to the
content. With polymer or plastic cases, when an impact occurs the case will often flex
or deform and transfer the majority of the impact energy directly to the contents. The
polymer or plastic case then returns to its original shape leaving the contents damaged
unbeknownst to all until the case and the damaged contents are in the field.
- Aluminum is not affected by extreme heat. In the temperature range of –238°F to
+302°F the material characteristics remain constant. The scorching temperatures of desert
warfare often distort case and container products made of polymers.
- Aluminum is corrosion resistant.
- Aluminum can be finished in a multitude of colors and textures.
- Aluminum is hygienic and easy to clean and has no odor. Ideal when an antiseptic
environment must be maintained.
- Aluminum withstands the effects of water vapor.
- Aluminum is manufactured from bauxite ore. Reserves of bauxite are sufficient to meet
demand for the foreseeable future.
- Aluminum is completely recyclable, unlike cases made of plastic.
- Aluminum uses no petroleum products in its manufacture. All polymer or plastic cases
and containers use petroleum as its main ingredient.
- Aluminum is impervious to the degrading effects of UV rays. Most polymer or plastic
cases, unless mixed with special UV blocking materials will discolor and brittle with
age.
- Aluminum does not store or build up static electricity. Because aluminum is a good
conductor of electricity, current quickly transfers into the ground. Plastic containers
that rub against each other during transport build up static electricity that in turn may
harm sensitive electronics.
