Definition
A trade name for an aluminum alloy sheet that has a thin layer of pure aluminum metallurgically bonded to one or both surfaces of a stronger aluminum alloy core. The pure aluminum cladding protects the structural alloy underneath from corrosion, while the alloy core provides the strength needed for aircraft structure.
Plain English
A type of aircraft sheet metal made by sandwiching a strong aluminum alloy between thin layers of pure aluminum. The outer pure aluminum resists corrosion; the inner alloy carries the load.
Context Anchor
Seen in aircraft sheet-metal maintenance, skin repair, and material-selection discussions.
Derivation
From 'pure' (the soft, corrosion-resistant outer layer of pure aluminum) and 'clad' (an old English word meaning 'covered' or 'clothed'). The name describes exactly what it is: an alloy sheet clothed in pure aluminum.
Why Pilots Care
When repairing aircraft skin, the thin pure-aluminum cladding must be protected. Scratching through it exposes the alloy underneath to corrosion, which can weaken the structure over time.
Intuition Check
Pureclad does not mean the whole sheet is pure aluminum. It means a strong aluminum alloy sheet is clad, or covered, with a thin layer of pure aluminum.
Example Sentence 1
The technician was careful when sanding the Pureclad skin so he wouldn't cut through the protective surface layer.
Example Sentence 2
Wing skins made from Pureclad resist pitting better than unclad aluminum in coastal operations.