How Are Aluminum Castings Used in Road Construction?
Answer:
Aluminum castings are a game-changer in road construction, offering lightweight durability and corrosion resistance for specialized applications. At Modern Aluminum Castings Co., we’ve been perfecting aluminum die castings since 1919, serving industries like construction with precision parts that enhance road-building efficiency. Here’s how these castings make an impact.
Traffic Signs and Signals
Aluminum castings shine in road signage and traffic control. Die-cast aluminum brackets, housings, and poles—crafted with Modern Aluminum’s expertise—support highway signs and traffic lights. Their high strength-to-weight ratio (think 10,000 PSI tensile strength from alloys like 413) makes them easy to install while resisting rust from rain or snow. Unlike steel, our castings endure harsh weather without corroding, ensuring long-lasting visibility for drivers.
Drainage Systems
Road drainage demands durability, and aluminum castings deliver. Cast grates and manhole covers from Modern Aluminum weigh less than iron—sometimes 50% lighter—yet handle heavy traffic loads. Their corrosion resistance, honed through our sand and die-casting processes, suits coastal or salty environments where steel falters. A 12-inch grate from our Terre Haute facility can outlast alternatives, cutting replacement costs.
Bridge Components
In bridge construction, aluminum castings lighten the load. Modern Aluminum produces railings, expansion joint covers, and connectors using alloys like A356, perfect for pedestrian overpasses or modular spans. Our castings’ thermal conductivity prevents cracking under temperature shifts, and their lightweight nature simplifies transport—key for tight project timelines. A single cast piece can shave pounds off a bridge’s framework without sacrificing strength.
Construction Equipment
Road-building machinery benefits too. Modern Aluminum’s die castings—like pump housings or hydraulic fittings—keep equipment efficient. Our permanent mold process ensures precision, reducing wear on graders or pavers. Lighter parts mean less fuel burn, speeding up asphalt laying or compaction.
Why Choose Modern Aluminum Castings?
From signage to machinery, aluminum castings from us offer unmatched value in road construction—light, tough, and rust-proof. With over a century of experience, Modern Aluminum delivers custom solutions for your next project. Contact us today to see how our castings can pave the way.
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