Aluminum extrusion is a popular manufacturing process used to create a wide range of products with specific shapes and sizes. The process involves pushing aluminum alloy through a die to form a continuous profile. One of the key factors to consider in aluminum extrusion is selecting the right grade of aluminum alloy, as different alloys offer varying properties that can impact the final product’s performance.
This blog will examine some of the best aluminum grades for extrusion, their properties, and common applications. It will also introduce Xihui Factory, a reliable aluminum extrusion supplier, and highlight its capabilities and advantages.
Understanding Aluminum Extrusion Alloys
Aluminum alloys are categorized by their series numbers, ranging from 1XXX to 7XXX. Each series possesses unique characteristics and is tailored for specific applications. For extrusion purposes, the most commonly used alloy series are 1XXX, 3XXX, 6XXX, and 7XXX.
1XXX Series Aluminum
This series comprises commercially pure aluminum, with 1050 aluminum being a prominent example. While offering excellent corrosion resistance, workability, and electrical conductivity, 1XXX series alloys exhibit lower strength compared to other grades. They are commonly used for applications where high strength is not critical, such as food trays and reflective surfaces.
3XXX Series Aluminum
The 3XXX series, particularly 3003 aluminum, exhibits good formability and corrosion resistance, making it suitable for applications that require moderate strength. It is a popular choice for fuel tanks, piping, chemical equipment, and truck and trailer parts.
6XXX Series Aluminum
The 6XXX series is one of the most widely used aluminum alloy series for extrusion due to its excellent balance of properties. Alloys in this series, such as 6061, 6063, and 6005A, offer good strength, weldability, corrosion resistance, and machinability, making them suitable for various structural and non-structural applications.
6061 Aluminum: This versatile alloy is often considered a substitute for low-carbon steel due to its medium to high strength, excellent weldability, and good surface finishing characteristics. It can be used for both hollow and solid extrusions, finding applications in building products, automotive parts, piping, furniture, and bicycle frames.
6063 Aluminum: Known for its exceptional surface finish, cost-effectiveness, and ease of extrusion, 6063 aluminum is a popular choice for thin-walled designs and intricate geometries. Its excellent weldability and corrosion resistance make it suitable for window and door frames, outdoor furniture, electrical components, and piping.
6005A Aluminum: With medium strength and excellent extrudability, 6005A aluminum is ideal for hollow or open extrusion designs. Its toughness is enhanced through -T1, -T5, and -T61 tempers.
7XXX Series Aluminum
The 7XXX series, including 7075 aluminum, is known for its exceptional strength and high strength-to-weight ratio. However, alloys in this series exhibit poor formability and weldability, posing challenges during the extrusion process. Despite these challenges, 7XXX series alloys are highly sought after for applications requiring high strength, such as aircraft components, missile parts, and gears.
Factors to Consider When Choosing an Aluminum Extrusion Alloy
Selecting the most appropriate aluminum alloy for extrusion involves considering various factors that can influence the final product’s performance and functionality:
Strength Requirements: The required strength of the extruded product is a crucial factor. For applications demanding high strength, alloys from the 2XXX or 7XXX series may be suitable. However, if moderate strength is sufficient, alloys from the 3XXX or 6XXX series can be considered.
Formability: The alloy’s formability dictates the complexity of shapes that can be achieved during extrusion. Alloys from the 1XXX, 3XXX, and 5XXX series generally exhibit excellent formability.
Corrosion Resistance: If the extruded product will be exposed to corrosive environments, choosing an alloy with excellent corrosion resistance is essential. The 5XXX series, particularly 5052 aluminum, offers exceptional corrosion resistance.
Heat Treatability: Some alloys can be heat-treated to enhance their mechanical properties. Alloys from the 2XXX, 6XXX, and 7XXX series are heat treatable, offering flexibility in tailoring the product’s properties.
Weldability: If the extruded product requires welding, selecting an alloy with good weldability is important. The 3XXX and 6XXX series alloys generally exhibit good weldability.
Machinability: The ease with which an alloy can be machined can impact production costs and efficiency. Alloys from the 2XXX and 6XXX series generally possess good machinability.
Cost: The cost of different aluminum alloys can vary significantly. Considering the budget constraints and the required properties is essential when choosing an alloy.
Aluminum Extrusion Tempers
Aluminum tempers play a crucial role in enhancing the mechanical properties of extruded products. They denote specific heat treatments or mechanical processes that alter the alloy’s microstructure, thereby modifying its strength, hardness, and ductility. Common aluminum extrusion tempers include:
T1: Cooled from an elevated temperature and naturally aged.
T2: Cooled from an elevated temperature, cold worked, and naturally aged.
T3: Solution heat-treated, cold worked, and naturally aged.
T4: Solution heat-treated and naturally aged.
T51: Cooled from an elevated temperature, stretched for stress relief, and artificially aged.
T6: Solution heat-treated and artificially aged.
T61: Solution heat-treated and artificially aged.
Introducing Xihui Factory: A Reliable Aluminum Extrusion Supplier
Xihui Factory, located in Foshan, China, is a reputable aluminum extrusion supplier with over 30 years of experience. Specializing in producing high-quality aluminum extrusion profiles, Xihui offers a wide range of products, including V Slot Aluminium Extrusions For Structural Framing, catering to diverse industries and applications.
Why Choose Xihui Factory?
Extensive Experience: Xihui’s three decades of experience in the aluminum extrusion industry have equipped them with the expertise and knowledge to deliver exceptional products and services.
Production Capacity: Xihui possesses a robust production capacity, with 15 aluminum extrusion machines and 40 deep processing machines, enabling them to handle large orders and meet diverse customization requirements.
OEM&ODM Services: Xihui specializes in providing OEM&ODM services, collaborating with clients to develop custom aluminum extrusion solutions tailored to their specific needs.
Stringent Quality Control: Xihui adheres to strict quality control measures throughout the manufacturing process, ensuring that all products meet the highest quality standards. Their dedicated QC team conducts thorough inspections to ensure customer satisfaction.
Fast Delivery: Xihui prioritizes efficient production and logistics, ensuring fast delivery times of 7-15 days.
Global Reach: Xihui’s products are sold in over 120 countries, demonstrating their commitment to serving a global clientele. They have successfully completed over 10,000 engineering projects, showcasing their ability to handle complex and demanding requirements.
Competitive Pricing: As a source manufacturer with a large production capacity, Xihui offers competitive pricing without compromising quality.
Wide Product Range: Xihui manufactures a wide array of aluminum profiles, including those for windows and doors, kitchen cabinets, tile trims, curtain blinds, awnings, ceiling diffusers, and industrial and construction applications.
Comprehensive Services: Xihui provides comprehensive services, including design, manufacturing, surface finishing, and assembly.
Conclusion
Choosing the right aluminum grade for extrusion is crucial for achieving the desired product performance and functionality. Factors such as strength, formability, corrosion resistance, and cost should be carefully considered when selecting an alloy. Xihui Factory emerges as a reliable aluminum extrusion supplier, offering a comprehensive range of products and services, ensuring customer satisfaction through their commitment to quality, efficiency, and innovation.
