5 Common Applications of Aluminum Extrusion Profiles

Aluminum extrusion profiles are at the top of the list of metal fabrications. They are a cost-effective choice that is lightweight and robust; therefore, you can rely on them to integrate well with your production process and are perfect for a wide range of applications thanks to these qualities. You might be shocked to realize how many different applications are available for aluminum extrusion profiles. The most common ones are explained. 

What are Aluminum Extrusion Profiles?

Materials commonly used to make extrusion profiles are aluminum and plastic. Aluminum extrusion profiles are made through molding aluminum by pushing it to stream through a shaped hole in a die where the profile is designed into the shape of your choice. Once aluminum is extruded in this manner, it emerges from the opening as a long cross-sectional piece that is intricate and precise. The cross-section of the elongated piece changes if the connection of the hole is modified.

The most basic profiles are the round, square, and rectangular bars. Hollows take the form of tubes, which can be whatever shape you like (square, round, rectangular, etc.), and surround a void, while the semi-hollow extrusion slightly opens in the form of a curve and hence has the most fluctuation. Additionally, aluminum extrusion profiles have high dimension stability, are cost-effective, and have a high strength-to-weight ratio and thermal conductivity.

How does aluminum extrusion work?

The process of extruding aluminum can be done either by hot extrusion or cold extrusion. There are good reasons to do both. Hot extrusion enables more volumes of aluminum to be supplied into the die faster and with less pressure. In contrast, cold extrusion produces high mechanical function parts mechanically, has a smooth finish, and doesn't rust.

The hot extrusion technique requires that aluminum billets be sized down before using them, after which the metal is heated until it attains a high temperature (between 300 °C and 600 °C) and becomes malleable without becoming liquid.

A hydraulic pressure helps the ram drive heated aluminum billets into a die with a standard opening such as a round, square, or specially designed profile. The aluminum is heated and then pressed through a die at massive pressure of roughly 10,000,000 pounds.

Once the extrusions have gone through the cooling process, they are cut to the desired lengths for clients' delivery. Aluminum can also be hardened through the application of heat treatment.

Common Applications of Aluminum Extrusion Profiles

Construction and Architecture

Extruded aluminum offers durability in construction by avoiding deformation from environmental factors and construction movements. They can withstand stress without losing their flexibility or strength and easily recover from impact effects.

Uses of aluminum extrusion profiles in construction include mechanical applications like building frameworks, structures, and equipment like ladders and elevator ducts. Due to their versatility, these designs can withstand shocks and heavy loads with little to no damage.

Additionally, lightweight and strong extrusions are suitable for canopies and other lightweight structures that need to support the weight. They are also used for railings, walls, suspended ceilings, and building facades. Using aluminum extrusions, you can also achieve classic interior finishes and thermal efficiency in architecture. 

Transportation Application

Weight is an important consideration in transporting. The sturdiness of aluminum extrusion profiles makes them suitable for fabricating car parts like engine blocks, roof rails, and frames of heavy and lightweight vehicles. Automotive applications such as trailers are also a good illustration.

For instance, if the trailer is light, a tow vehicle can focus its towing power on the cargo instead of the trailer. It's important to remember that this is not just about semi-trailers but also other types of trailers. Similarly, recreational vehicles (RVs) rely heavily on aluminum extrusion to perform a similar function. In addition, it doesn't rust and can be polished to improve its appearance; hence are ideal for meeting transportation needs.

Display Apparatus

Another application of aluminum extrusion profiles is on makeshift display equipment in exhibitions like frames and storage cabinets. It is possible to create an extruded profile where the parts all fit together perfectly and snap together in no time, thanks to aluminum's complex structure. It's lightweight, hence easily movable, and you can give a variety of appealing, long-lasting finishes. 

Electrical Application

Electrical systems like electrical panels employ extruded aluminum, a good heat conductor. Additionally, the right form makes an excellent radiator for heat control. Solar panel support systems also use aluminum extrusion profiles to provide corrosion resistance and strength. Extruded aluminum is occasionally used in lighting and bus bars, among other electrical devices, since it is an excellent conductor. 

Another electrical application of aluminum extrusion profiles is the protection of cables and wires, which is enabled by their non-magnetic qualities. These profiles are suitable for electrical systems with magnetically sensitive electronics. Additionally, they are used in LED fixtures because they can be easily installed and colored.

Industrial Application

Aluminum profiles are used in nearly every component of industrial projects, from workbenches to guardrails. Its robustness against rust and corrosion, combined with its lightweight property, makes it a great choice. In practically any manufacturing facility, aluminum extrusion will be in use.

Tools like workbenches, extrusion frames, carts, and tables, are commonly constructed from this material due to its low cost, high durability, and ease of cutting and drilling. It's extensible, so if your workspace needs changes, you can make the necessary adjustments with no effort. Extrusion is also employed to make frames for equipment protection. It's easy to assemble and may be installed with panels to provide a better view while safeguarding workers.  

Take Away

Aluminum is an interesting material because of its many beneficial properties, light weight, strength, and corrosion resistance. Its cross-section can be tailored to accommodate any number of desirable characteristics using extrusion profiles. Its electric conductivity and the low price of extrusion profiles are added benefits.

Extrusion may be made quickly and at a substantially lower cost than their molding and casting counterparts. These properties of aluminum extrusion profiles make them suitable for use in a wide range of projects, as their efficiency guarantees customer satisfaction.