As a materials expert with a focus on the metal industry, I take pride in providing insights into the market dynamics of various materials, including aluminum. The cost of a pound of aluminum can vary significantly based on a multitude of factors such as the type of aluminum, its purity, market demand, and the current state of the commodity market.

Aluminum is a versatile metal used in a wide array of applications, from construction to aerospace, due to its lightweight, corrosion resistance, and high strength-to-weight ratio. The price of aluminum is influenced by supply and demand dynamics, geopolitical events, trade policies, and the overall health of the global economy.

When discussing the cost of aluminum, it's essential to differentiate between primary aluminum, which is newly produced from bauxite ore, and secondary aluminum, which is recycled from scrap. The prices you've provided in your reference seem to be for scrap aluminum, which is typically cheaper than primary aluminum due to the lower cost of production.

Extruded Aluminum 6063 (clean) is priced at $0.68 per pound. This type of aluminum is known for its excellent machinability, making it a popular choice for a variety of applications. The "clean" designation indicates that the scrap is free from contaminants, which can affect both the price and the quality of the recycled aluminum.

Extruded Aluminum 6063 (unclean) is valued at $0.55 per pound. The "unclean" label suggests that the scrap may contain impurities or other materials, which can reduce its value.

UBC (Used Beverage Cans) are priced at $0.48 per pound. These are a common source of recycled aluminum and are often sorted and processed for re-melting.

Cast Aluminum, which is typically used for its excellent castability and can be made from a variety of aluminum alloys, is priced at $0.45 per pound.

It's important to note that these prices are subject to change and can fluctuate based on the market conditions. Additionally, the prices listed are for scrap metal and may not reflect the cost of new aluminum ingots or other forms of aluminum that have been processed for specific applications.

When considering the purchase of aluminum, whether for industrial use or personal projects, it's crucial to understand the specific type of aluminum required for the job and to stay informed about current market prices. This can involve consulting with suppliers, monitoring commodity exchanges, and understanding the factors that influence aluminum pricing.

In summary, the cost of a pound of aluminum is not a static figure and requires a nuanced understanding of the type of aluminum in question and the economic forces at play in the market.

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Price of Scrap Metal*subject to changeExtruded Aluminum 6063 (clean)$0.68per poundExtruded Aluminum 6063 (unclean)$0.55per poundUBC (Aluminum Cans)$0.48per poundCast Aluminum$0.45per pound22 more rowsread more >>