Aluminum Alloys
Extruded
Wheels
Pistons
December 1, 2004
Aluminum Ladders, window frames, cans:
Aluminum from old aluminum ladders, soda cans, and window frames can be used for castings. The alloys used to make extrusions are not as good for casting as alloys specifically designed for casting.
Aluminum auto wheels:
The aluminum alloy used in auto wheels is great for use in the home foundry. I get mine from one of the local tire stores. Sometimes they are free, and sometimes they cost me as much as US$5.00 a wheel. The wheels weigh 16 to 18 pounds a piece. I cut mine to size for melting with a circular saw with 7 1/4" carbide tipped blade or a table saw with a 10" carbide tip blade. I wear a full face shield when making the cuts. These alloys seem to flow in most of the casting that I have done.
Auto and truck pistons:
Many hobby casters are using scrap automobile and truck pistons for aluminum castings. I have not used them and cannot speak to how well they work in the casting environment.