What Is Aluminum Extrusion?

If you are considering a career in the aluminum industry, you may be wondering: what is aluminum extrusion? If so, this article will provide you with some basic information about the process and its characteristics. Next, learn about its uses and cost. In this article, we will discuss the characteristics and applications of extruded aluminum. In addition, we’ll go over the differences between cold and hot extrusion. After you finish reading, you’ll have a better understanding of the cost of aluminum and how it’s produced.

Process of extruding aluminum

The process of extruding aluminum involves forcing a billet through dies. The billet is a raw material with varying length and thickness. The billet is heated in a tunnel heater, so the temperature varies according to the type of aluminum and its desired characteristics. Once the billet has reached the desired temperature, it is cooled and straightened using a stretcher. The process is usually a highly automated one.

The extrusion process is similar to the way toothpaste is squeezed out of a tube. If the tube has a round tip, the toothpaste will extrude as a continuous stream. If you flatten out the tip, the toothpaste will exit as a thin, ribbon-like stream. Changing the tip will create a variety of shapes. Similarly, aluminum can be extruded into any shape you desire.

Characteristics of extruded aluminum

The underlying process temperature of aluminum extrusion determines the amount of softening. Process temperature is controlled by the rotation speed and preheating time. The higher the process temperature, the more pliable the aluminum becomes. This is especially important for products requiring high heat resistance and toughness.

The strength of extruded aluminum is its best strength to weight ratio. Because of this, it is used extensively in aircraft production. Aluminum airplane wing is a great example of its use. It is also widely used in automobile production to reduce car weight. Lightweight cars improve fuel efficiency. Extruded aluminum is an excellent choice for these uses.

Applications of extruded aluminum

Aluminum extrusion uses dies and two temperature conditions to produce a product with the desired shape and size. When aluminum is at 660degC, it becomes pliable and passes through a pressing vessel to apply compression. When aluminum is at room temperature, it is cooled and then stretched to straighten twists. Afterwards, the metal is subjected to aging and quenching to impart specific physical and mechanical properties. In addition, the finished product may be painted, powder-coated, or electroplated.

Extruded aluminum is often used in temporary set-ups, including exhibitions. Because of its excellent conductivity, it is also often used in lighting. In modern LED fixtures, however, thermal management can be a concern. Aluminum extruded with fins is a great heat exchanger and radiator. Its ease of mounting also makes it a good choice for photovoltaic panel support structures, which require low mass, high strength, and corrosion resistance.

Cost of extruded aluminum

The cost of aluminum is influenced by several factors, including its composition and process. Aluminum billets are a popular choice for extrusion, but this material is quite expensive. The cost of aluminum billets is equal to the spot price of aluminum ingots, plus the processing cost of extruded aluminum profiles. There are several factors influencing the price of aluminum billets, but the main reason is that the materials cost is affected by the metal’s weight per square meter. Aluminum ingots are produced from waste aluminum. The cost of aluminum profiles is therefore significantly lower.