Aluminum extrusion is a highly effective manufacturing process that can produce a wide range of shapes and sizes. It’s also very easy to use.
Whether it’s through written details, CAD drawings or blueprints, the aluminum extrusion manufacturer relies on specifications to produce accurate custom-extruded aluminum. Specifying the correct dimensions and tolerances is critical, as even small deviations can be costly.
Consider the Quality of the Products
When picking an aluminum extrusion manufacturer, you need to look at the quality of their products. The best way to do this is to ask them for references and reviews. This will give you an idea of the quality of their work and if they are able to meet your needs.
You should also check the weight per foot of their products. This factor has a direct impact on the profitability of press operation. Lighter shapes require smaller presses, while thick-walled hollow profiles require larger ones. These heavier shapes also tend to be more costly.
It is important to note that the rate of deformation can affect the mechanical properties of the aluminum. In addition, if the shape has walls of different thicknesses, it may cool at a different rate during heat-treat quenching, which can cause distortion. This can be avoided by following good design principles. These include avoiding unsymmetrical or imbalanced shapes and using the minimum wall thickness possible for each profile.
Check the Technology and Equipment
Aluminum extrusions are formed by pushing melted aluminum through a die with a powerful ram. The force used is comparable to squeezing a tube of toothpaste with your fingers. The shape of the die, or in this case the opening of the extruder, determines what type of shapes are produced.
Custom aluminum extrusion manufacturers make products like angles, channels, solid bars, tees, and hexagons as well as heat sinks and other complex shapes according to designer specifications. They may be finished with basic mechanical treatments like buffing, bead blasting, and grinding. They can also be anodized for a protective coating that is resistant to oxidization and corrosion.
Choosing a supplier with specialized equipment and technology is essential for ensuring the quality of the products you receive. In addition, they should be able to deliver your orders in the quantity and within the time period you need them. Lastly, they should be able to meet your business needs for the future as you continue to grow.
Check Their Pricing
Aluminum is often referred to as the “Green Metal.” It requires a fraction of energy to produce compared to other types of metals and can be recycled over and over again without losing its quality. It also offers a sleek design and can be formed into a variety of shapes.
The process of extruding aluminum involves forcing heated and softened aluminum alloy through a die that has a predetermined cross-sectional shape. A substantial ram then pushes the metal through until it emerges in the exact form of the die aperture. This is then hauled off along a runout table.
The cost of aluminum extrusions can vary depending on the design of the part and how much machining it will require. Additionally, some manufacturers have order minimums that can add up quickly. However, if you partner with an experienced supplier, they can help you avoid costly surprises. In addition to this, they can ensure that the wall thickness of the metal is consistent. This will ensure that all parts cool evenly and prevent mechanical problems down the road.
Check for Additional Services
When choosing an aluminum extrusion company, make sure they offer the services you need. For example, some companies may be able to provide additional surface treatments like polishing and anodizing. They can also offer different types of finishes, such as powder coating and electroplating.
Additionally, they can do machining and fabrication services. They can also provide different types of secondary operations, such as drilling and tapping. These additional services can help you save time and money on a project.
You should also consider how they deal with their finances and paperwork. Make sure they have a clear pricing schedule and rates’ statics so that there are no surprises later on. Also, make sure they are reputable and will not increase the price of their products. This will save you a lot of headaches down the road. Lastly, make sure they are capable of handling the production runs you need. This is essential if you want your project to be completed on time.