Aluminum Extrusion
Aluminum extrusion is when aluminum alloy material is forced through a die according to specific measurements and profiles. This method requires using a powerful ram to push the aluminum through the die. The part that emerges is then shaped by the die and is pulled onto a runout table. This extrusion process looks simple, but in reality the shapes are much more complex and tailored than what is possible with other shaping methods.
To produce your desired aluminum extrusion shape, our team uses the last and greatest technology. Following tight mechanical specifications, we maintain consistent surface quality to ensure the product fulfills all requirements.
ERD Metal conducts custom aluminum extrusion by using three key presses in our extrusion line, including 1350 tons Mei Rey, Taiwan, 1600 tons Loewy, UK, and 1900 tons SMS Inns. Other elements of the facility include our billet brushing system, two aging ovens, die polishing machines, and speed control systems to increase product quality, promote flexibility, avoid extrusion lines, and prevent differences in color after the anodizing process.
Our high quality aluminum extrusion dies are able to control heat and uneven pressure. Again, this helps ensure the quality of the end product.
The Aluminum Extrusion Process
The three main categories of extruded shapes include solid, hollow, and semi-hollow. We can produce multiple, adjoining shapes to match your specific requirements. There are ten steps involved in the extrusion process, which include:
- Extrusion Die Preparation and Loading to the Extrusion Press
- Preheating the Aluminum Billet Before Extrusion
- Transferring the Billet to the Extrusion Press
- The Ram Pushes the Billet Material into the Vessel
- Extruded Material Appears through the Die
- Guiding and Quenching the Extrusions Along with the Runout Table
- Trimming the Extrusions to Table Length
- Cooling the Extrusions to Room Temperature
- Stretching the Extrusions into Alignment on the Stretcher
- Extrusions are Cut to Length with the Finishing Saw
Heat Treatment for Mechanical Improvement
Once the extrusion is complete, we treat the product for further flexibility and yield stress enhancement as required. Generally, we treat alloys in the 2,000, 6,000, and 7,000 series. To accelerate the aging process, we put them into ovens, bringing them to the most common T5, T6, or any other tempers required
This method can significantly increase the tensile strength with up to 69MPa (10 000 psi). Knowing the amount of resistance your product requires is necessary information when ensuring it is up to standard. This also helps us treat the alloy optimally, ensuring you get the best results for your project.
Aluminum Extrusion Technical Use
Aluminum extrusion has many uses in the electronics, automotive, doors and window façade systems, shower enclosures, lighting, furniture, RV, automation (T Slot), and beyond. Click here to learn more about our extrusion dies.
To ensure our products are functional and of the highest quality, ERD Metal employs a wide variety of fabrication and finishing processes. These include machining, cutting, bending, welding, punching, and more. Furthermore, our dies can effortlessly extrude aluminum rods, bar and hex products, pipe and tubing, and more, both for regular and custom shapes.
Applications for Aluminum Extrusions
Aluminum extrusions are ideal for industries where power-to-weight ratios are critical, for example, panels, chassis, engine blocks, transmission housings, and more. In addition, aluminum is naturally rust- and corrosion-resistant, meaning it doesn’t need any further treatment.
The Importance of Aluminum Extrusions
Aluminum extrusion is a vital manufacturing process that provides an ideal solution for many different industries. It’s a versatile procedure with more than enough accuracy to heat, treat, polish, and construct up to 24-foot-long profiles according to client specifications.
Request a Quote today to get started on your project, or email us for orders, information, and more.
