Jindal Aluminium Limited | Aluminium: Spearheading the construction sector in the post-COVID era

The construction industry depends heavily on several materials, of which aluminium is foremost because of its qualities of strength, durability and versatility. Touted as the metal of the future, it will take the technology of construction to newer heights.

As it evolved, the construction industry has been influenced by the changing landscape of materials used and the need for faster execution of projects. It has led to the use of new technology, but in its quest to build sustainably, the material used plays a critical role in bringing together elements of design and strength to the structure.

Developers always try to ensure that their projects meet sustainability targets, are cost-effective, aesthetic in design, and durable; they are constantly on the lookout for a reliable resource for construction that makes the project stand out. As an industry affected by the pandemic, one material that continues to redefine projects in the construction sector is aluminium.

Constant partner 

There are many reasons why builders believe aluminium is a game-changer for the construction industry. Being the second largest industry after agriculture makes it even more critical for a country like India, which is by various industry estimates poised to become the third-largest construction market over the next few years. One must not forget that along with generating employment opportunities, the construction sector also contributes significantly to the Indian economy.

Hence, materials and products consumed by the construction industry have a more considerable significance, especially regarding sustainability and going green. Downstream aluminium products have been a constant partner of the construction world, beginning with its use in the United States during the construction of the Empire State Building in 1931. This association of aluminium and construction continues to date, with high-rises and modern projects dotting every global city bearing a testimony. When India becomes the third-largest construction market, a key part will be played by aluminium products in construction.

Leading the way  

Aluminium is a versatile metal and, therefore, able to serve many purposes in construction. Offering a high strength-to-weight ratio is one of the best qualities that it brings to the table. The benefits of such an offering are huge and have proven the metal to be a sought-after material by the construction industry. A drive through any central business district across Indian cities is an excellent way to see how aluminium is being used and leading the way to modern construction. The office blocks and skyscrapers with their glass facades, would not have been possible without the use of aluminium.

While aluminium offers its strength to keep the aesthetics and design elements together, this brilliant metal also allows the usage of glass extensively. The large glass panels are held together by aluminium products without any issue or worry from the expert. Thus, lets in more sunlight into the building, lowering our dependency on electricity. This is one of the ways aluminium plays a role in making a green building.

The metal of the future 

The strength, low density, corrosion resistance, and design flexibility of aluminium have been seen through its use in window frames, domed roofs, and other wide-span constructions for the past several decades. Over time, its use has spread to many different aspects of construction like translucent panes, window and doorframes, staircases, louver blades in an air conditioning system, solar protection, heating systems, furniture, and many other fitments.

Given its versatile use, the construction industry has opted for aluminium to replace traditional materials like wood or steel because it makes a variety of styles possible while retaining the architectural integrity of the building, be it a high rise apartment block, a commercial building, or anything else. Aluminium as a product is minimal on its maintenance requirements, offering high resistance to damage from fire, etc. that lists out additional advantages of a material whose use will continue to spearhead or dominate the construction sector in the post-Covid era.