DEVELOPMENT OF ALUMINIUM PROFILES: A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF SOME MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF FRESH INGOT AND RECYCLED SCRAP

Studies have shown that there is an increasing cost associated with the procurement of Virgin (fresh) Aluminium ingots. It has become necessary to recycle scraps to meet most domestic and Industrial demand.  This development can only receive approval if the mechanical performance of the scraps is scientifically proven.  Samples for impact, Torsion and Tensile test were prepared, three each from scraps and ingots and were subjected to destructive standard impact, torsion and tensile testing.  Result obtained during torsion shows for fresh ingots failure occurred at 0.98 Nm while for scraps, failure occurred at an average point of 1.04 Nm. For impact, strain energy of 17J was observed with fresh ingot and scrap was 18J.  The tensile test showed ultimate strength of 1.85KN/mm² for fresh ingot and 1.80KN/mm² for recycled scrap.  The result, although showing marginal differences suggest a mix outcome, indicating no significant difference between fresh Aluminium Ingots and recycle Scrap Aluminium.