What is Aluminum Extrusion?

What is Aluminum Extrusion?

Aluminum extrusion is a method which is used to transform its alloy into objects with some definitive cross section extrusion profiles used for wide array of uses. Extrusion processes makes most of the unique combinations of physical characteristics of aluminum. Its malleability lets it to simply be casted and machined, and still aluminum is 1/3rd the stiffness and density of steels to result the products to offer the strength as well as stability, specifically when it is alloyed with some other metals

Aluminum Extrusion Process

Aluminum extrusion process includes these steps;

  • After creating and designing the shape of die, a cylindrical billet of alloy is heated at the temperature of 800 to 925 degree F.
  • This billet is then transferred to loader, where lubricant is added to avoid it from sticking to extrusion machine, ram or handle.
  • Substantial amount of pressure is then applied to dummy block with the help of a ram that pushes aluminum billet inside container that force it through die.
  • In order to avoid oxides formation, liquid or gaseous nitrogen is introduced as well as allowed to flow by sections of die to create inert atmosphere as well as increase life span of die.
  • Extruded portion passes onto run-out table as elongated piece which is now same of the shape as die opening. It’s then pulled to cooling tables where the fans cool newly created aluminum extrusion profile.
  • When cooling gets completed, extruded aluminum is then moved to stretcher, for further straightening as well as work hardening.
  • This hardened extrusion is brought to saw table and then cut according to needed lengths.
  • Final stage is to treat this extrusions with appropriate amount of heat in the age ovens, that hardens aluminum by process of aging
  • Additional complexities can be applied during the process to customize these extrusion profiles. For instance, for creating hollow sections, piercing or pins mandrels are placed in die. After extrusion, variety of options are there for color adjustments, brightness and texture of final finish, including painting and anodizing of aluminum.

    Today, aluminum extrusion is also used in the components International Space Stations. Diverse application are only possible because of beneficial attributes of aluminum, because of its ductility to conductivity and blend of strength, non-magnetic attributes as well as aluminum ability to recycled over and over again without any loss of integrity. All such properties of aluminum makes it adaptable and viable solution for growing manufacturing needs.
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