Aluminium extrusion is the process of shaping aluminium usually done by forcing it to go through an opening with the desired shape. Aluminium extrusion presents plenty of benefits including corrosion resistance, high conductivity of heat, and high conductivity of electricity.
Before the process of extrusion, it is important to have an idea of the shape and color you want to achieve. During the process, the temperature is the most important consideration. You can only achieve the desired characteristics if you pay attention to the temperature.
You can think of the process like making products using hydraulic press. The malleable dough is made to go through the press. It goes through the opening which has the desired shape. The process of extrusion is obviously more complicated than that but it works the same way. A hydraulic press is used to achieve various shapes.
The Process of Aluminium Extrusion
- The billet must be heated up to at least 800°F. The temperature has to be very precise.
- Once the billet has been heated, it is transferred to the loader. A film of lubricant is added
- The billet is moved to the cradle
- When the ram puts pressure on the dummy block, it pushes the billet to the inside of the container. The billet is crushed under pressure until it comes into contact with the walls of the container
- As the extrusion gets out of the press, True Temperature Technique is used to record the exit temperature. It is important to keep a record of the exit temperature to keep it constant. Different aluminium alloys may have different temperature requirements
- The extrusions are pushed out of the die and cooled by a series of fans which are all placed along the run-out and the cooling table.
- Once your extrusion has reached the intended length, it is cut with a shear or profile saw. The metal is then transferred to the cooling table.
- Once the aluminium has cooled off, it is moved from the cooling table to the stretcher. Stretching is an important process because it straightens the extrusions. It improves the strength and hardness of your aluminium.
- After stretching, it is time to saw the aluminium. It is cut to various lengths to suit your needs.
- Once the aluminium has been cut into the desired sizes, it is ready to be transported to the place where it is supposed to be used.
Modern engineering designs require the use of materials that are strong, lightweight, and corrosion resistant. Aluminium extrusion will improve the appearance and strength of your metal. Aluminium has been a popular choice for extrusion for a long time because of its attractive properties. It can be used in a variety of applications.
For reliable aluminium extrusion services, consider getting the help of a professional company such as Edmo. The company has been a specialist in aluminium extrusion and fabrication since 1978. Always go for a company with creative solutions, commitment to high quality, and great customer services.
