More about Clad Metals

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Clad metals are metals bonded to at least one layer of a different metal. Cladding can be achieved by a number of different processes, including extrusion, pressing, electroplating and a variety of chemical techniques. The advantages to cladding range from enhanced appearance and corrosion resistance to superior thermal and electrical performance, and the process is often used to protect less wear-resistant metals.

Virtually any metal can be clad, including alloys, whether as an overlay, full clad or inlay. The process is regularly used in the production of electrical components, decorative products, currency, machine parts, aerospace components and shielding solutions; even cookware and automotive parts use clad metals. Clad metals are considered composites, and they often display the beneficial characteristics of both the metals involved.

Roll bonding is frequently used to produce clad metals. In roll bonding, multiple strips of cleaned and prepared, dissimilar metals are simultaneously passed through a high-pressure rolling mill. Due to the pressure exerted by the rolls, the metals coalesce into a single material that is bonded on an atomic level. Generally, the resulting material is heat treated to enhance the strength of the bond. Explosive bonding, which uses the energy produced from explosive charges, is also used to produce clad metals.

Both the thickness and distribution of the cladding can be controlled during the production process. Manufacturers can also apply specialized coatings to specific portions of the metal to prevent it from bonding. Aluminum is one of the most frequently used metals in cladding, as it provides added wear resistance and strength. Aluminum clad parts are used in catalytic converters and aerospace components. Stainless steel, nickel and copper are also widely used cladding materials. In many cases, cladding provides additional cost benefits, because it allows the effective use of less expensive materials in place of solid alloys.