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Production Aluminum Extrusion Processes

Aluminum Extrusions

Get volume pricing on aluminum extrusions from our diverse factory network.

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Aluminum Extrusion Manufacturing Facilities

We production aluminum extrusion parts in a variety of countries.

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Vietnam

We offer aluminum extrusions in Vietnam.

Malaysia

We offer aluminum extrusions in Malaysia.

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Eastern EU

We offer aluminum extrusions in Eastern EU.

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China

We offer aluminum extrusions in China.

What is an aluminum extrusion?

Aluminum extrusion is a manufacturing process in which aluminum alloy is forced through a die to create long, continuous shapes with a consistent cross-section. The process begins by heating an aluminum billet to a high temperature to make it malleable, then pushing it through a die that has the desired shape. The resulting extrusion can be cut to the required length and further processed, such as anodizing or machining, to meet specific design needs. Aluminum extrusions are known for their strength, durability, and lightweight properties, making them ideal for a wide range of applications.


This process allows for the creation of complex profiles that are both strong and lightweight, making aluminum extrusions particularly useful in industries such as construction, automotive, aerospace, and electronics. From structural components like frames and supports to intricate parts used in consumer products and architectural designs, aluminum extrusions offer versatility and precision. Additionally, aluminum’s natural corrosion resistance and the ability to be easily recycled make extrusions an eco-friendly choice for many manufacturing applications.

Group of aluminum extrusions

Aluminum Extrusion Manufacturing Process

01

Scope & Quote

Our team will collaborate with you to ensure your specifications, lead time, and budget align with your project requirements. Before starting tooling, we'll provide a DFM report for your approval.

02

Mold & Sample

We will create a high-quality metal extrusion die. Once the tooling is complete, we will produce and send part samples for your approval.

03

Production & Delivery

After you approve your samples, we proceed with full production and deliver the parts. Landed will manage supplier coordination and logistics throughout the entire process. You retain ownership of your tooling, making it simple to reorder whenever needed to meet demand.

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Extruded Aluminum Alloys

Extruded aluminum can be manufactured in a variety of alloys 

6061 Aluminum
  • 6061 aluminum offers a high strength-to-weight ratio, making it ideal for structural extrusions.
  • It provides excellent corrosion resistance, suitable for outdoor and marine applications.
  • The alloy is highly machinable, allowing for easy post-extrusion shaping and precision work.
  • 6061 aluminum is known for its great weldability, supporting assembly and fabrication processes.
  • Heat-treatable to tempers like 6061-T6, it achieves enhanced strength and durability.
  • It can be extruded into complex shapes with a smooth surface, though slight grain variations may occur.

Extruded 6061 aluminum is ideal for applications requiring a combination of strength, lightweight, and corrosion resistance. Common uses include structural components in buildings, automotive parts and aerospace.

6063 Aluminum
  • 6063 aluminum is known for its excellent formability, making it ideal for complex and intricate extrusion designs.
  • It provides a smooth surface finish, making it well-suited for applications requiring aesthetic appeal, like architectural elements.
  • The alloy has good corrosion resistance, particularly in outdoor environments and anodizing applications.
  • 6063 is softer and more malleable than 6061, which allows for easier shaping and bending during the extrusion process.
  • It offers moderate strength, making it ideal for non-structural applications where high strength isn't the primary concern.
  • 6063 aluminum is often used for extrusions in windows, doors, and frames due to its balance of formability, surface finish, and corrosion resistance.

Extruded 6063 aluminum is commonly used in applications that prioritize appearance and formability, such as window and door frames, curtain walls, and other architectural elements. It’s ideal for products that require a smooth surface finish and moderate strength, including railings, furniture, and decorative trim.

Extruded Aluminum Finishing Options

Choose from a variety of finishes for your aluminum extrusions.

As-extruded

NA

The finish will remain unprocessed in its as-extruded condition. Surface roughness may vary between alloys due to differences in grain structure,

Annodized

Clear, red, black, gold, green and blue. Other options are also available.

Type II anodizing forms a corrosion-resistant oxide layer on the surface of parts, with the option to apply various colors such as clear, black, red, or gold. Type III anodizing, also known as hard anodizing, produces a thicker coating that not only enhances corrosion resistance but also provides increased wear resistance. However, anodized coatings from both types are not electrically conductive.

Powder Coating

Custom colors

Powder coating is a dry finishing process in which powdered pigment and resin are electrostatically applied to a metal surface, then heated to form a durable, protective layer. It offers excellent resistance to corrosion, chipping, and fading, making it ideal for outdoor applications. When applied to aluminum extrusions, powder coating provides a smooth, uniform finish in a variety of colors, enhancing both the appearance and longevity of the extruded parts.

Plating

Contingent on process

Several types of plating can be applied to extruded aluminum to enhance its properties. Electroless nickel plating is commonly used, providing excellent corrosion resistance, hardness, and uniform coating even on complex shapes. Chromate conversion coating, also known as chem film, is another option that enhances corrosion resistance while maintaining electrical conductivity. Additionally, anodizing, although technically not a plating, is widely used to protect aluminum, offering both decorative finishes and increased durability.

Extruded Aluminum Manufacturing
Frequently Asked Questions

Get the answers to these questions about aluminum extrusion manufacturing.

General aluminum extrusion FAQs

What industries commonly use extruded aluminum?

Aluminum extrusion is a manufacturing process where aluminum is forced through a die to create specific cross-sectional shapes.

What industries commonly use extruded aluminum?

Extruded aluminum is used in various industries including automotive, construction, aerospace, and electronics due to its versatility and strength.

What are the advantages of using aluminum for extrusion?

Aluminum is lightweight, corrosion-resistant, highly malleable, and cost-effective, making it ideal for extrusions in a wide range of applications.

Can aluminum extrusions be customized?

Yes, aluminum extrusions can be customized into complex shapes and designs to meet specific project requirements.

Technical aluminum extrusion manufacturing FAQs

What surface finishes are available for extruded aluminum?

Common surface finishes for extruded aluminum include anodizing, powder coating, and plating, each offering unique benefits like corrosion resistance and aesthetic appeal.

How precise can aluminum extrusions be?

Aluminum extrusions can achieve tight tolerances, often within ±0.005 inches, depending on the complexity of the design and the extrusion process used.

What is the maximum size or length for extruded aluminum profiles?

The maximum size and length of extruded aluminum profiles depend on the press capacity but can typically range up to 12 inches in width and 60 feet in length.

What types of alloys are commonly used in aluminum extrusion?

The most commonly used aluminum alloys for extrusion are 6061 and 6063, known for their excellent strength, corrosion resistance, and formability.

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