What Are Aluminum Extrusions Used for?

The market outlook for aluminum extrusions shines in the coming decade, with an estimated annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.8% from 2021 to 2028. ^[[1]]  In the future, aluminum extrusions technology will be the key focus due to the growing demand in the building, construction, and transportation sectors. While aluminum extrusions receive focus from the manufacturing industry, the background of aluminum extrusions remains a puzzle for some stakeholders. This article will guide you through what aluminum extrusions are and what aluminum extrusions are used for. Let’s read on.

How are Aluminum Extrusions Made?

Aluminum extrusions are related to the shaping of aluminum. Usually, a single extrusion is produced when aluminum billets are pushed and heated at extremely high temperatures within the steel die. As such, the aluminum extrusion replicates the cross-section of the die perfectly. Extruded aluminum is strong, smooth, and durable, making it crucial to many constructions and automotive requirements.

The versatile shaping process of aluminum has a few distinct steps to create aluminum extruded sections:

1. Preheated Extrusion Billet

^[1]https://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/aluminum-extrusion-market

First, an unshaped aluminum bar called billet receives heat treatment. This heat treatment makes aluminum more pliable and softer. Usually, the treatment requires heat ranges between 800 and 925 Fahrenheit.

2. Extrusion Press

Once the billet has been heated, it needs pressing for smoothness and strength. Usually, the heated and soft billet is placed under a strong hydraulic press. Here, the billet and the ram receive lubrication to prevent the sticking of the components. The ram slowly presses the billet inside the main hydraulic container, shortening and widening the billet.

3. Container Filled with Alloy Metal

The hydraulic pressure container is filled with a die, which is usually an alloy metal. For example, a steel die is used against which the aluminum billet is pressed during the aluminum extrusion process. Custom aluminum extrusions may use a different die based on the firm’s requirement. Once the process is completed, the aluminum extrusion can gain the required shape.

4. Extrusion Die

The die is usually made of alloy metal. To ensure effectiveness in the process, the excess die is recyclable for future aluminum extrusions. The length and pattern of the aluminum extrusion die are the prime determinants of the final shape taken by the aluminum extrusions.

5. Cooling of Profiles.

After the aluminum extrusions have taken the required shape, they are left to cool the metal. A machine is used to stretch, harden and straighten the aluminum billet in the meantime. Once the cooling and stretching process is completed, the aluminum extrusion can be cut into smaller pieces based on the required applications.

Different Shapes of Extrusions

Aluminum extrusions can take different shapes:

1. Solid

A solid aluminum extrusion dies the final shape with no openings or voids. Thus, the shape is that of a solid beam or rod with no gaps in between. This aluminum extrusion type is cheaper to manufacture than the other types. Also, it results in lower material wastage than other aluminum extrusion shapes.

2. Hollow

As the name suggests, a hollow aluminum extrusion has one or more gaps, voids, or opening in it. Such a profile is complex and takes more resources to produce compared to the simple, solid custom aluminum extrusion. The extruded aluminum sections have holes created by mandrel located inside the die during the hydraulic pressing process.

3. Semi-Hollow

Semi-hollow aluminum extrusions have shapes similar to completely hollow extrusions. However, the holes on the surface of these extrusions do not have a core. Thus, the void or openings are not complete. The solid die and the hollow die are both used in the production of semi-hollow aluminum extrusions.

Advantages and Features of Aluminum Extrusion

There are numerous advantages of using aluminum extrusions due to their distinct features.

1. Strength-to-Weight Material

Aluminum is a lightweight material and offers strength at least three times its weight. Due to the lightweight, aluminum extrusions are easy to carry around than copper, brass, or steel.

2. Resilient

Aluminum extrusion is very strong due to its nature, which also strengthens during the stretching process in their production. The strong profile design makes them suitable for all-weather applications. Sharp weather changes do not impact them adversely as they are flexible and can bear serious impact.

3. Conductivity

Aluminum is a non-magnetic, highly efficient conductor of metal. In fact, aluminum’s conduction is twice as good as copper for equal weights. However, the low cost of aluminum makes it the best choice for low-cost conductor extrusions.

4. Ease of Use

Aluminum extrusions do not require any specific preparation on-site. Instead, they can be installed easily. Complex shapes can be created using the right dies. Extruded aluminum sections can be made in one piece, increasing their strength and reducing the chances of any leaks over time.

5. Sustainability

Aluminum is a recyclable material, which maintains its properties during the recycling process. Most aluminum extrusions are made from a high quantity of recycled material. Therefore, it offers a more suitable option for the safety of our planet than other metals.

Application Scenarios of Aluminum Extrusion

Aluminum extrusions can be used in different applications:

1. Home Decoration

By using the right dyes, aluminum extrusions can be shaped into aesthetic designs. Thus, its use in construction and home applications gives the property a more elegant and graceful look. Similarly, aluminum is corrosion and rust-resistant. Therefore, the aesthetic beauty of your home is maintained over time.

2. Electronic Usage

Being an excellent conductor, the aluminum extrusions are further shaped into wires and coaxial cables. The non-magnetic nature of these cables makes them safer for high-voltage requirements. They can also be used in industrial, high-voltage uses.

3. Automotive

Most automobile radiators use aluminum extrusions. Similarly, it is used in the condenser tubes and air conditioning system. The ability of aluminum extrusions to provide durability even in small sizes makes them suitable for delicate usage inside vehicles.

4. Bridge and Decking

Bridges and decking require rust-free and corrosion-free material to support them and provide the necessary strength to hold them in their place. These properties are found in aluminum extrusions, making them the perfect choice in this industry. They can offer a durable and lasting construction material for the heaviest bridge and decking.

The Essential

XINGFA has operated in the aluminum manufacture and supply market based on innovation and high-quality products. XINGFA ensures authoritative testing of the products using the most advanced technology before offering them to the end customers. Every service is available to consumers all around the world. Furthermore, numerous quality assurance organizations have tested and approved their quality, whose certificates are listed on the website. With XINGFA, you can find any aluminum product based on your needs.

For more information, please visit XINGFA at: https://www.aluminiumsupplier.com.cn/.