At London Metal Store, we stock aluminium tubes supplied for metalworking projects across the UK.
What is an Aluminium Tube?
An aluminium tube is a hollow, circular metal profile manufactured through an extrusion process. Aluminium billets are heated and pushed through an extrusion die to create round tubes with consistent wall thickness and diameter. The material naturally forms a protective oxide layer on the surface, which provides corrosion resistance in different environments.
Aluminium tubing is lightweight and easy to work with. It is commonly used for metalworking, furniture, rails, guards, and general workshop applications where corrosion resistance and low weight matter.
If you don't see the specification you require, please contact our sales team.
Aluminium Tube Sizes
At London Metal Store, we stock aluminium round tubes in diameters from 9.5mm to 50.8mm, with wall thickness options of 1.6mm and 3.2mm. All sections come in 2.5-metre lengths.
Each product listing shows the diameter, wall thickness, and length, with prices shown ex VAT.
The right size depends on the application and load requirements. Smaller diameters are commonly used for furniture frames, rails, and lighter metalwork, while you should choose larger diameters for scaffolding, industrial frames, and metalwork projects.
How an Aluminium Tube is Made?
The extrusion process starts with aluminium billets, which are cylindrical blocks of aluminium alloy heated to the right temperature. The heated billet is forced through an extrusion die that shapes the material into a round tube profile. After extrusion, the tube is cooled and cut to length.
Different aluminium grades and alloys can be extruded to create tubes with specific properties. Silicon is commonly added to aluminium alloys to improve strength and heat resistance. The extruded tubes can then be processed further through machining, drilling, bending, or surface treatments.
Working with Aluminium Tubing
Aluminium round tubing can be cut with standard saws or tube cutters. The lightweight material is easy to handle and work with on-site or in the workshop. When you cut aluminium tubes, deburr the edges to create clean, safe cuts.
Bending an aluminium tube requires proper equipment to avoid kinking or crushing the hollow section. Tube benders or mandrels support the wall thickness during forming to maintain the circular shape. Heat can be applied for tighter bends, though cold bending works for most applications.
Welding aluminium tubes creates strong joints for frames and assemblies. The oxide layer must be removed before welding to get a good bond. Drilling and machining work well on aluminium tubing for creating mounting holes or custom modifications.
Common Uses
Aluminium tubing is a versatile product used across furniture manufacturing, shop fittings, handrails, guards, and general metalworking. The range of sizes supports both light-duty and heavier commercial uses.
Round tubes are commonly used for rails, guards, enclosures, and mechanical components. The lightweight properties reduce the total weight of assemblies while maintaining strength. Many attributes of aluminium, such as good heat conductivity and workability, make it a top-quality aluminium choice for customers across different sectors.
Buy Aluminium Tube from London Metal Store
Our Service Provides You Speed, Variety, & Convenience
We stock a huge range of aluminium round tubes in standard sizes. Orders can be placed online by selecting the required diameter, wall thickness, and quantity. We deliver across England, and the rest of the UK, or you can choose Click & Collect from our London metal store.
If you need sizes not shown online or have questions about which tube suits your project, contact our sales team.
You can directly email us at sales@londonmetalstore.co.uk or call 0203 002 6353 for customer support assistance.