The use of aluminium extrusions is transforming manufacturing capabilities. Designers are continuing to discover the flexible, creative and practical applications of the metal many are regarding as a new phenomenon. One of the main attractions of using aluminium extrusions is the reduction in manufactured parts. Where perhaps three or four separate components need to be welded together, with aluminium extrusion techniques, they can be combined into one single fabrication. This is achieved by first creating a die or mould then forcing molten aluminium through to create the components. Shapes of the most complex design can be created in this way, significantly reducing the time and costs involved in manufacturing.

Stronger Components

Products made without the techniques of aluminium extrusion frequently need several parts to be welded into one. Any welded joint is a potential weak spot that can eventually break due to the stresses in force during use. Garden tools and car parts for example, can often have welded joints that weaken the overall design. With aluminium extrusions, complex pre-cast shapes eliminate the need for multiple parts and welding, resulting in stronger products. Deadlines can be met more easily reducing costs and increasing profits.

How The Extruding Process Adds Strength

The extrusion process adds strength through heating, cooling then ageing or curing the aluminium. During the heating stage, the aluminium is heated until it begins to soften. An advanced technique at this stage is to keep or soak the aluminium at that temperature for a certain length of time but not long enough to cause the aluminium to melt. Air, water or occasionally both, are used to quench or cool the extrusion, a technique that requires a great deal of experience to prevent any distortion occurring. The curing process continues to add strength to the aluminium, if the process was left to occur naturally it could take years to complete. Modern techniques use advanced curing ovens to speed up the process.

Experience

Adding different metals to the aluminium creates extrusions with specific qualities. Zinc for instance, will add superior strength and durability but is not the most suitable mix for creating tiny, complex shapes. Producing cost effective aluminium extrusions relies on a great deal of experience to achieve the most suitable cost effective results. To get the best for your aluminium extrusion project consult Edmo for expert advice.