What Is an Aluminum Shovel?
An aluminum shovel, as the name suggests, is a shovel made out of aluminum. These shovels are used in various outdoor settings, including livestock farming, agriculture, gardening, snow shoveling, and camping. Compared to shovels made from materials like iron, stainless steel, and plastic, aluminum shovels are more robust than plastic but less durable than iron. They are lighter and easier to handle than steel shovels, yet heavier than plastic ones. Various tip shapes are available, including square, sword-tip, and window shovels (with holes).
Different shovel heads are specialized for tasks such as digging into the ground with good soil penetration or scooping gravel or compost. Shovel handles may be made of wood or metal, with metal handles being more durable but colder to the touch in winter.
Uses of Aluminum Shovel
Aluminum shovels have diverse applications in dairy and livestock farming, agriculture, gardening, civil engineering, construction work, and snow removal. Typically around 3ft (1m) in length, these lightweight, rust-resistant shovels are also convenient for camping and other outdoor activities. They come in various sizes and tip shapes, including foldable types for vehicle storage. Specific tip designs, like the sword-tip, are efficient for digging hard ground, while square shovels are great for scooping leaf litter, fertilizer, or asphalt. Window shovels with holes are ideal for digging in clayey soil or sifting out large stones.
Features of Aluminum Shovel
Pros
Advantages of aluminum shovels include their lightweight, corrosion-resistant nature, making them easier to handle for various tasks like excavation and carrying heavy materials. They come in a wide range of shapes and sizes, allowing for selection based on specific needs. Their heat-resistant and rust-resistant properties make them excellent for outdoor use, reducing user fatigue in demanding tasks.
Cons
The main drawback of aluminum shovels is their weaker mechanical strength compared to steel, making them prone to chipping or bending in hard conditions. They are also susceptible to abrasion, although there are hardened, wear-resistant products available. Aluminum’s high thermal conductivity may cause snow to stick to the shovel. However, this issue can be addressed with silicon spray.
Types of Aluminum Shovel
Aluminum shovels are classified based on their blade tip shape:
- Square Shovel: Flat tip for scooping and carrying materials like gravel.
- Sword-Tip Shovel: Triangular tip, best for digging into soil and biting into hard ground.
- Spade-Shaped Shovel: Spade-like tip, slightly curved toward the end.
- Window Shovel: Perforated blade, lighter and ideal for clayey or wet soil.
- Coal Shovel: Dustpan-like shape with raised edges, suitable for scooping many items at once.
How to Choose an Aluminum Shovel
When choosing an aluminum shovel, the shape of the shovel’s head is a key factor. Determine whether you need a shovel for digging or for scooping and moving materials. A sword-tip shovel is recommended for versatility, as it is suitable for both digging and carrying various materials. It may not have the large capacity of a square shovel, but it offers dual functionality.