Skip to main content

Aluminium Extrusions

Aluminium extrusions are products formed by pushing heated aluminium through a die to create objects with a specific cross-sectional profile. This process allows for the creation of complex and precise shapes, making aluminium extrusions essential in various industries for both structural and decorative applications.

Manufacturing Process

  1. Billet Preparation:
    • Selection: Aluminium billets, typically made from high-quality alloys such as 6061, 6063, and 6005, are chosen based on the desired properties.
    • Heating: Billets are heated to approximately 900°F to 925°F (482°C to 496°C) to soften the metal for extrusion.
  1. Extrusion:
    • Extrusion Press: The heated billet is placed into a container and forced through a die using a hydraulic press. The die has an opening shaped like the desired cross-section of the final product.
    • Shaping: As the aluminium is pushed through the die, it takes on the shape of the die opening, forming a continuous length of extruded profile.
    • Cooling: The extruded aluminium is cooled using air or water to harden it quickly.
  1. Finishing:
    • Stretching: The extrusions are stretched to straighten and align them.
    • Cutting: The extruded profiles are cut to the desired lengths.
    • Heat Treatment: Some extrusions may undergo heat treatment (tempering) to enhance mechanical properties like strength and hardness.
    • Surface Treatments: Options include anodizing, powder coating, and painting to enhance appearance and corrosion resistance.

Properties

  • Lightweight: Aluminium’s low density makes it easy to handle, transport, and install.
  • Strength: Aluminium alloys provide a good strength-to-weight ratio, making them suitable for structural applications.
  • Corrosion Resistance: Aluminium naturally resists corrosion, and surface treatments can further enhance this property.
  • Malleability: Aluminium can be easily formed into complex shapes without losing its integrity.
  • Conductivity: Aluminium has good thermal and electrical conductivity, making it ideal for heat sinks and electrical applications.
  • Recyclability: Aluminium is fully recyclable, making it an environmentally friendly material choice.

Types of Extruded Profiles

  1. Solid Profiles: Simple shapes like rods, bars, and angles.
  2. Hollow Profiles: Tubes and pipes, which can have circular, square, or custom cross-sections.
  3. Semi-Hollow Profiles: Profiles that are partially enclosed, providing a combination of solid and hollow characteristics.

Applications

  1. Construction and Architecture:
    • Building Frameworks: Used in the construction of windows, doors, curtain walls, and facades.
    • Structural Components: Beams, columns, and support structures.
    • Decorative Elements: Railings, trims, and mouldings.
  1. Transportation:
    • Automotive: Components like frames, chassis, and heat exchangers.
    • Aerospace: Structural components, fuselage parts, and interior fixtures.
    • Railway: Body frames, interior fittings, and structural supports.
  1. Industrial:
    • Machinery: Parts for machines, conveyors, and equipment.
    • Heat Exchangers: Used in cooling systems and radiators.
    • Electrical: Bus bars, conductors, and enclosures.
  1. Consumer Goods:
    • Furniture: Frames for chairs, tables, and shelving units.
    • Appliances: Housings and structural components.
    • Sporting Equipment: Bicycles, ski poles, and camping gear.
  1. Electronics:
    • Heat Sinks: Used to dissipate heat in electronic devices.
    • Enclosures: Casings for electronic components and devices.

Benefits

  • Versatility: Aluminium extrusions can be customized to meet specific design and functional requirements.
  • Cost-Effectiveness: The extrusion process is efficient, reducing material waste and manufacturing costs.
  • Durability: Aluminium extrusions offer a long lifespan with minimal maintenance.

© AC METALS. All rights reserved.