IN A WORLD WITHOUT CASTINGS Would Aluminum Be Used Around the World?


1884, Washington D.C.


A 6.25-lb., 8.9-in. cast aluminum apex is mounted as the tip of the Washington Monument. According to Te Minerals, Metals & Materials Society, it is the first major application of aluminum. At the time, aluminum is rarely used because it is not widely available, difficult to cast and expensive (the cost of one ounce is roughly equal the wages earned in one day). Te casting is commissioned to serve as a de- terrent to lightning and is also resistant to corrosion, making it virtually weatherproof. Te piece requires little to no maintenance. Aluminum would go on to be used in countless applications around the world, including construction and architectural applications like roofs, siding, skylights and doors.


16 | MODERN CASTING June 2012


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