How aluminium extrusion works – from start to finish
Aluminium extrusion is an extensive process consisting of several stages, which is why it can occasionally be difficult to explain. For those who are looking to learn more, here is an explanation of how aluminium extrusion works with our five-step aluminium extrusion process from start to finish.
As one of the most thorough aluminium extrusions suppliers in the UK, here at UK Profile Components, we aim to make the aluminium extrusion process as easy as possible for our customers who hail from a wide variety of different industries.
Design
The initial stage of aluminium extrusion revolves around design with our using computer aided design (CAD) to plan how a customer’s brief can be turned into a physical creation.
Using our computers to create sketches and drawings, we will develop a clear picture of what the final product will look like along with the measurements necessary to create it. This allows us to monitor the process, making tweaks where necessary to ensure that our design is to the customer’s satisfaction before proceeding.
Dies
Once the design of the aluminium extrusion has been completed and approved, we will then go on to create the die for the profile. An aluminium extrusion die is a steel tool through which aluminium is pushed with force. The Aluminium exits the other side of the die in the shape and size desired.
We can use profiles using standard existing dies or a bespoke die to meet clients’ individual needs.
Extrusion
Once we have created the die to be used, performing the aluminium extrusion itself is a relatively straightforward process. In the extrusion process, an aluminium alloy is heated to 350-500 degrees before being pushed through the die at pressure. This allows us to create aluminium profiles of up to 42m which are then pulled from the die. These profiles are then cut to whatever length the customer has requested.
Finishing
Sometimes a client may demand a more desirable appearance or a better surface preservation from their aluminium profiles. One common reason for this is to adapt the aluminium for the specific needs of certain industries such as agriculture.
Should the customer request this option, we can then treat the aluminium with a range of finishes. The most common types of finishing we provide for aluminium profiles include mechanical (abrasive finishing methods such as polishing and buffing), anodising (immersing the profile in diluted sulphuric acid) and powder coating (paint without solvent, ideal for extending the life of the aluminium and giving it extra UV protection). The type of finish chosen depends on the customer’s individual requirements.
Delivery
Once the aluminium extrusion process is completed, we will hold stock in our warehouse for clients to call off as required. Delivery from our stock warehouse typically takes between two to three days. We are happy to provide our clients with regular updates on stock levels so they can plan their processes accordingly.
Interested? Let us know!
If you would like to know more about our aluminium extrusion process, why not get in contact with us today? We’d be happy to offer you advice and a price estimate before we get straight to work on your design.
