Architectural Aluminum Plaques
Architectural Aluminum
A356 · ASTM B26
Architectural Aluminum
What Is C83600 Architectural ALUMINUM?
Our cast aluminum plaques use A356 architectural-grade aluminum — the industry standard for sand-cast architectural signage. Also known as “premium casting alloy,” A356 has served architects, municipalities, and memorial designers for over 80 years, chosen for its exceptional blend of castability, light weight, and long-term corrosion resistance.
The high aluminum base (91%+) means zero rusting, ever — aluminum forms a self-protecting oxide layer within hours of casting that permanently shields the metal beneath. The silicon content improves fluidity during the pour, yielding sharp detail reproduction that rivals cast bronze.
Indus Metal Plaques uses A356 aluminum (ASTM B26) for plaques where the full grandeur of bronze is desired at a more accessible price point — without compromising detail, longevity, or outdoor performance.
Alloy Composition by Weight
The Aging Process
How ALUMINUM Ages Beautifully
Unlike iron, aluminum doesn’t rust — it oxidizes in a way that seals and protects, creating a plaque that looks refined for generations.
Fresh Cast
Freshly cast aluminum shines with a cool silver-white luster — clean and modern.
1–3 Years
Oxidation begins, softening the shine into a refined matte. A thin, hard oxide layer forms.
5–15 Years
The oxide layer has now fully hardened, locking the surface against further corrosion.
20–50 Years
The aluminum is now self-sealed. No maintenance needed. The plaque looks distinguished, not aged.
50–100+ Years
With baked enamel background and clearcoat, a well-maintained aluminum plaque outlasts buildings.
Full Specifications
Technical Data
Property
Value
Alloy Designation
| A356 (ASTM B26) |
Composition
| 91.1% AL · 7% SI · 0.35% MG · 0.2% FE |
Casting Method
Sand Casting, Chemically-Bonded Mold
Pour Temperature
| 1,300°F (704°C) |
Tensile Strength
33,000 PSI (T6 Heat Treated)
Density
0.097 LB/IN³ (~2.68 G/CM³)
Standard Thickness
| 1/4 inch Base Field |
Relief Height
| Up to 1/2 inch (Title Letters) |
Background Color
| Stainless 3/8″ Anchor Bolts (Template Incl.) |
Clearcoat System
| 50+ Years Documented |
Mounting
Stainless 3/8″ anchor bolts (template incl.)
Outdoor Lifespan
100+ years documented
Warranty
Lifetime — full replacement
Note: The material specifications, alloy composition, and performance characteristics provided are for general reference only. Actual composition, mechanical properties, finishes, and aging behavior may vary based on manufacturing processes, environmental conditions, and application. Natural patina development and color changes in bronze will differ over time.
Why Choose Bronze
Seven Reasons Bronze Wins
Dramatic Weight Advantage
At just 0.097 lb/in³, aluminum is 3× lighter than bronze — critical for large plaques, retrofit installations, or masonry walls with load limits.
Zero Rust Guarantee
Aluminum cannot rust. Its native oxide layer forms instantly and permanently bonds to the surface — no maintenance, no corrosion, ever.
Cost-Effective Prestige
Delivers the architectural authority of cast metal signage at a price point accessible to schools, churches, parks, and non-profits nationwide.
Full Color Range
Accepts all 29 baked enamel background colors — from Hunter Green to Midnight Blue — with equal adhesion quality as bronze.
Coastal Compatible
The aluminum oxide layer resists chloride attack that degrades iron and mild steel. Salt air is no match for A356 architectural aluminum.
Fully Recyclable
Aluminum retains 100% of its material value and can be fully recycled at end of life — a sustainable choice for environmentally conscious organizations.
Vandalism Resistant
The density and hardness of cast bronze makes it extremely difficult to deface — far more resistant to graffiti and physical damage than softer materials.