Alloy Lights
Alloy Lights Metals
Copper
Copper has been used by humans longer than any other metal, with artifacts of the metal’s use dating back to 8,700 B.C. The Egyptians are known to have used copper for plumbing when constructing the pyramids. For its raw beauty, versatility, and durability, copper is often referred to as “man’s eternal metal”.
Today, copper is one of the finest materials out of which a flashlight can be made. Its thermal and electrical conductivity are ideal for dissipating the heat generated by high-output LED systems, and it’s even anti-bacterial!
Copper is the only metal other than gold to have natural color, making these lights as striking with high gloss polish on delivery as they will be elegant with patina in time.
Aluminum
While aluminum accounts for approximately 8% of the weight of the earth’s crust, it is one of the most difficult metals to extract in pure form. In fact, it wasn't even isolated in pure form until the 1820’s.
The 7075-T651 grade aluminum that we use in our lights was developed in secret by the Japanese in 1940 for use in the air frame of the Mitsubishi Zero fighter planes.
Today, 7075 remains one of the strongest grades of aluminum, and is used in the construction of rock climbing equipment, airplanes, and in many high quality guns. Capable of replacing twice it’s weight in steel with equal strength, aluminum is used virtually everywhere weight and strength are critical.
Brass
Bright gold in color, brass has been used for its striking visual qualities since ancient Rome.
Created from a mixture of copper and zinc, brass' qualities extend far beyond just visual. It is commonly used in applications where low friction is required, such as locks and ammunition casings. With the invention of the valve in 1814, brass instruments became a permanent section of the orchestra because of the alloy's acoustic qualities. With superb corrosion resistance, brass is commonly used for plumbing and on boats.
When struck against another metal, brass will not create a spark, making it ideal for use in volatile atmospheres. NASA ordered special flashlights made of brass for the astronauts on the Apollo missions for exactly this reason! These lights were critical on the Apollo 13 mission when the crew was forced to rely on them after powering down their damaged ship.
