Aluminum Extrusion Process

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Aluminum Extrusion Process

Producing almost any shape imaginable is possible with suitable extrusion dies.

Aluminum Extrusion Process Basics

The aluminum extrusion process can be visualized using a PlayDoh® press. The process begins when the malleable dough is forced through the press and flows through the opening fitted with a particular die shape.

Hollow Die Shape

For a hollow die shape, the PlayDoh can flow through the opening between the part of the die that forms the outside diameter and the inside "mandrel" supported by two horizontal supports.

The PlayDoh SEPARATES into two tube halves and "welds" back together due to the pressure needed to make it flow through the annular opening into a tube shape.

Extrusion Process

Of course, the actual aluminum extrusion process is more complicated than this, and requires a powerful hydraulic press . However, once the aluminum extruder is setup with dies and ancillary equipment, producing almost any shape imaginable is possible with suitable extrusion dies.

Direct Extrusion Operation

This diagram shows the basic steps involved in extruding an aluminum profile.

Once the desired shape for the finished profile has been developed and the appropriate aluminum alloy selected, an extrusion die and associated tooling is produced. In the actual extrusion process, the aluminum billet (a cast "log" of extrusion feedstock) and extrusion tools are preheated. During extrusion, the billet is still solid, but has been softened in a furnace.

Extrusion Processes

The melting point of aluminum is approximately 1,220° Fahrenheit (660° Centigrade). Extrusion operations typically take place with billet heated to temperatures in excess of 700°F (375°C), and (depending upon the alloy being extruded) as high as 930°F (500°C).

The actual extrusion process begins when the press ram starts applying pressure to the billet within a container.