The aluminum extrusion technique is employed with various types of aluminum alloys for the development of particular cross-sectional shapes for certain applications. This process of extrusion utilizes the characteristics of the aluminum metal. Specifically, aluminum has considerable malleability. As a result, it is easily formed, machined, and cast. Aluminum also only has a density one-third that of steel. Products of aluminum extrusion shapes have considerable stability and strength, particularly when they are alloyed with other metals such as magnesium and silicon. As a 100% aluminum distributor, Howard Precision Metals has become well-known not only as a premier aluminum extrusion supplier , but also for providing the best in aluminum plate and sheet products, too.
Aluminum Extrusion Offers Design Advantages
The extrusion process is a cost-effective way to create a wide-range of custom metal shapes. By forcing heated through a die, aluminum extrusions are created. The process of aluminum extrusion is simple. However, the range of shapes that can be produced by extrusion is quite complex. Aluminum extrusions can include such cost-saving features as tongue and groove, self-tapping screw slots, snap, press, and sliding fit. Because new shapes can be ordered, tooled, produced, and delivered in as little as 12 weeks, aluminum extrusions are an attractive way to save time and money in the manufacturing process.
Aluminum Extrusion is Economical
Stock aluminum extrusions are normally cost-effective and competitive in comparison to other forms of metal developed through manufacturing processes. However, custom aluminum extrusions are appropriate when the component produced consists of a complex cross-section or has a non-standard sized dimension. There is a virtually endless potential of design possibilities with the aluminum extrusions. The process allows greater simplification and economy in the production of a large number of end products.
Transportation and Automobile Industries
There are many applications in the transportation industry in which the lighter weight possessed by aluminum is very beneficial. Aluminum extrusions are used for the manufacture of products such as panels, engine blocks, roof rails, transmission housings, chassis of cars, trucks, and boats. In addition, aluminum is used to make other parts, including bodies, of vehicles. Because aluminum has a high strength-to-weight ratio, aluminum extrusions are commonly used, instead of steel, to produce structural elements of lighter weight vehicles. This high strength-to-weight ratio also enables vehicle manufacturers to improve on dent resistance. Because of aluminum’s lighter weight, body panels can be made thicker than with previous steel versions. Thus, more dent resistance is provided along with achieving a lighter overall vehicle weight. The lighter weight of aluminum vehicles also improves performance. Aluminum vehicles accelerate quicker, brake faster, and handle more nimbly. It is no wonder why aluminum has become so popular in vehicle manufacture.
Aluminum offers natural resistance to the environmental impact of moisture, corrosive forces from road salt, and temperature over the long-term. Aluminum extrusions are used to form various components in vehicles such as drive shafts, radiator enclosures, body and frame components, and cylinder liners.
Heat Conduction Applications
Aluminum material is very efficient at conducting heat and as such it is commonly used in computer heating and cooling devices, automobile radiators, electronics and visual/audio systems, condenser tubes, air conditioners, pharmaceutical fine units, and nuclear reactors.
Corrosion Resistant Applications
One of the optimum characteristics of aluminum is its natural corrosion resistance without the need for additional surface treatment. This characteristic is due to the presence of a natural thin protective film of aluminum oxide the metal possesses which adheres to its surface.
Construction Industry Applications
In the construction industry, extruded aluminum products are used extensively for various applications. For instance, shed and trailer construction often use lightweight extruded aluminum guide rails and paneling. In addition, aluminum extrusions are also used for elements in other, denser structures as well.
Architectural Applications
The various architectural applications that utilize aluminum extrusions include balustrades and railings, bleachers, and building façades. Canopies in which the structure must be lightweight but also stiff and handle loads also make use of stock aluminum extrusions. Because aluminum does not rust, extruded aluminum has an attractive uncoated look. Aluminum is also extremely popular for use in interior accents.
Elevator shafts, stairwells, and lighting fixtures all use various applications of extruded aluminum. Even though aluminum is generally not used to build the basic structural skeleton of a building, it can be used to reinforce the structure in a building’s interior. In addition, many areas of a building’s construction, such as plumbing, utilize extruded aluminum designs.
Non-magnetic Applications
Tubing made from extruded aluminum is used to house wires and coaxial cables due to its nonmagnetic characteristic. Extruded aluminum is highly useful for applications that involve magnetic fields, sensitive magnetic devices, or high voltage.
Display Equipment Applications
Many of exhibitions and trade shows utilize stands that are built with a certain amount of extruded aluminum material. Extruded aluminum sections can be designed and manufactured such that they interlock easily, making the process of assembly fast and simple. In addition, the products produced by extruded aluminum may be finished in various ways to achieve an attractive appearance which is important for marketing purposes.
Other examples of aluminum extrusions used for display equipment include display cabinets and point-of-sale displays.
Regardless of the particular application or industry involved, aluminum extrusions produced by aluminum extrusion companies are highly useful for the development of products that enable exceptional function and décor. An experienced aluminum metal supplier serving your area can help you achieve all of the benefits available through the aluminum extrusion process.
Do you have specific requirements that involve aluminum extrusion? If so, give our team at Howard Precision Metals a call today at 800.444.0311 to learn how we can help you with your aluminum product needs. Or, request a quote from our website.
