Prices around the Austin area are close to $400 / sheet for 4x12’ .025 6061-T6 vs. ~$200 @ Wicks / Aircraft Spruce. Unfortunately, Wicks / Spruce is likely going to be hundreds of dollars in shipping and is too far to drive. Anyone have any recommendations on reasonably priced aluminum suppliers in the DFW or Houston areas? DFW preferred, but both are a pretty easy drive from Austin. I’m getting ready to grab the phone book and just start dialing but thought I’d ask first. Thanks!
Those quotes are absurd!
The best supplier I have ever worked with is Bralco metals in Garland. Granted, I bought when aluminum was at a record low at the start of COVID, but their prices were still the best when I checked again in 2022. I found them because suppliers said, “sorry, we don’t stock 0.020”. Call Bralco. They handle all of the aerospace stuff.”
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still likely shipping involved, but could check out
Aircraft and Vintage camper building supplies - Aluminum Sheet 2024T3 6061T6 3003H14
Bryan
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imamac96: Great - I’ll give them a call. I realize nothing is going to be cheap at this point, but hopefully I can get some prices close to the major aircraft supplies and save the shipping portion.
Bryan H. - I will investigate Airparts Inc. Thank you!
Hey Connor - Fantastic lead. They are waaaay closer to Spruce / Wick’s prices and within easy driving distance. Thanks for the suggestion.
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When buying from non-aviation suppliers of aluminum, be careful to not mention that it’s for an airplane. Some companies will refuse to sell it to you if they should find out. Also, it’s a good idea to ask for a certification of the type of aluminum you’re actually buying. Writing this from past experience.
Art, Sonex taildragger #95, Jabiru 3300 #261
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Same here!
So do y’all request / pay for certification paperwork on all of your aluminum? What I’ve seen is they usually charge your by Al type (.025, .032, different angle sizes) and it’s ~$10 /each so not a completely trivial cost. Angle Al does not appear to be marked in any way but the sheets are imprinted with type and thickness. So do you just do it on the angle but assume the sheet markings are accurate?
Just ask for mill certs. It was free when I did it.