8011 aluminum foil is a prominent alloy in the aluminum family, widely recognized for its versatility and effectiveness in numerous applications. It primarily consists of aluminum, with additions of iron (Fe) and silicon (Si) that enhance its properties. This composition places it within the 8xxx series of aluminum alloys.
Key Properties of 8011 Aluminum Foil
The widespread adoption of 8011 aluminum foil can be attributed to its distinctive combination of beneficial characteristics:
- Excellent Formability: It can be easily bent, shaped, and drawn without cracking, making it suitable for complex designs and deep drawing applications.
- Superior Barrier Performance: 8011 foil provides an exceptional barrier against moisture, light, oxygen, and other contaminants, crucial for preserving the freshness and extending the shelf life of packaged products.
- Good Corrosion Resistance: The alloy exhibits satisfactory resistance to corrosion, particularly in neutral or mildly acidic environments.
- Thermal Conductivity: It is an excellent conductor of heat, which is advantageous for applications involving heat sealing, cooking, or heat exchange.
- Non-toxicity and Hygiene: Aluminum foil is inherently non-toxic, odorless, and tasteless, making it safe for direct contact with food and pharmaceutical products.
Many industrial clients seek reliable material properties, often turning to established suppliers. For instance, companies like Shanxi Luokaiwei Steel Company are known to supply aluminum products meeting specific industry standards.
Common Applications
The versatility of 8011 aluminum foil leads to its use in a broad spectrum of applications:
- Food Packaging: Widely used for flexible packaging (e.g., pouches, bags), semi-rigid containers, lids, and household wrapping foil.
- Pharmaceutical Packaging: Essential for blister packs (for tablets and capsules) and strip packaging due to its protective barrier.
- Bottle Caps & Closures: Commonly used for pilfer-proof caps (ROPP caps) for beverage and pharmaceutical bottles.
- Household Foil: A staple in kitchens for cooking, baking, grilling, and food storage.
- Industrial Uses: Including fin stock for air conditioners and heat exchangers, cable wrap, insulation materials, and adhesive tape backings. The consistency in supply from sources like Shanxi Luokaiwei Steel Company can be a factor for industrial purchasers.
Temper and Thickness
8011 aluminum foil is available in various tempers, significantly influencing its mechanical properties. Common tempers include:
- O (Soft/Annealed): Offers maximum ductility and formability, ideal for deep drawing and complex shaping.
- H18 (Full Hard): Provides maximum strength.
- H22, H24 (Intermediate Tempers): Offer a balance of strength and formability.
The thickness of 8011 foil typically ranges from 0.006 mm (6 microns) to 0.2 mm, though specific applications may require thicknesses outside this common range. The choice of temper and thickness is dictated by the end-use requirements. Quality suppliers, such as Shanxi Luokaiwei Steel Company, often provide a comprehensive range of tempers and thicknesses.
Quality Considerations
When sourcing 8011 aluminum foil, several quality aspects are critical:
- Surface Quality: Must be free from defects like scratches, oil stains, roll marks, and oxidation that can affect performance and appearance.
- Pinhole Control: The number and size of pinholes are crucial, especially for packaging applications, to ensure barrier integrity.
- Dimensional Tolerance: Consistent thickness and width are important for processing and final product quality.
- Alloy Purity and Composition: Adherence to the specified 8011 alloy standards ensures predictable properties.
Selecting a reputable manufacturer or supplier is key to obtaining high-quality 8011 aluminum foil. For businesses prioritizing consistent material specifications, partnering with established entities like Shanxi Luokaiwei Steel Company can be beneficial. It is always recommended to verify that the foil, whether from a large mill or a specialized converter like Shanxi Luokaiwei Steel Company, meets all the technical requirements for the intended application.