Introduction.
Aluminum is a versatile material that can be used in a wide range of applications. One of the most common applications of aluminum is in extrusion, where the material is forced through a die to create a specific shape or profile. To achieve the desired properties and performance, it’s important to choose the right aluminum alloy for the extrusion process. In this article, we will explore the most frequently used aluminum alloys for extrusion.
7075-T6511 Extrusion:
7075-T6511 is a heat-treatable alloy that is known for its high strength and toughness. This alloy is commonly used in extrusion applications that require high strength and good formability. When 7075-T6511 aluminum is extruded, it produces a finished product that has excellent strength and toughness, making it ideal for high-stress applications.
One of the advantages of 7075-T6511 aluminum is that it can be heat-treated to improve its properties. Heat treatment involves subjecting the material to high temperatures, which changes its internal structure and improves its strength and hardness. This makes it ideal for extrusion applications that require high-strength, lightweight components. It’s worth noting that 7075-T6511 aluminum extrusion is more expensive than other aluminum alloys, but its high strength and durability make it an excellent choice for custom aluminum extrusion.
6061-T6 Extrusion:
6061-T6 is one of the most commonly used aluminum alloys for extrusion. This alloy is known for its excellent strength, formability, and weldability, making it a versatile material for a wide range of applications. When 6061-T6 aluminum is extruded, it produces a finished product that has excellent strength and toughness, making it ideal for high-stress applications.
One of the advantages of 6061-T6 aluminum is that it can be easily machined and welded, making it a popular choice for custom aluminum extrusion. It’s also relatively inexpensive compared to other aluminum alloys, making it a cost-effective option for many applications. However, 6061-T6 aluminum is not as strong as 7075-T6511 aluminum, so it may not be suitable for applications that require extremely high strength or durability.
2024-T3 Extrusion:
2024-T3 is a high-strength aluminum alloy that is commonly used in aerospace and military applications. When 2024-T3 aluminum is extruded, it produces a finished product that has excellent strength and toughness, making it ideal for applications that require high-stress components.
One of the advantages of 2024-T3 aluminum is that it has excellent fatigue resistance, making it ideal for applications that require long-term durability. However, it’s important to note that 2024-T3 aluminum is not as corrosion-resistant as other aluminum alloys, so it may not be suitable for applications that are exposed to harsh environments or corrosive substances.
5052-H32 Extrusion:
5052-H32 is a high-strength aluminum alloy that is commonly used in marine and automotive applications. When 5052-H32 aluminum is extruded, it produces a finished product that has excellent strength and corrosion resistance, making it ideal for applications that are exposed to harsh environments.
One of the advantages of 5052-H32 aluminum is that it is highly formable, making it ideal for applications that require complex shapes or profiles. It’s also relatively inexpensive compared to other aluminum alloys, making it a cost-effective option for many applications. However, it’s important to note that 5052-H32 aluminum is not as strong as other aluminum alloys, so it may not be suitable for applications that require extremely high strength or durability.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, choosing the right aluminum alloy for custom aluminum extrusion is essential to achieve the desired properties and performance. 7075-T6511, 6061-T6, 2024-T3, and 5052-H32 are some of the most frequently used aluminum alloys for extrusion, each with its own unique set of properties and advantages. 7075-T6511 aluminum is a high-strength, heat-treatable alloy that is ideal for applications that require extreme strength and toughness. 6061-T6 aluminum is a versatile, cost-effective alloy that is easy to machine and weld. 2024-T3 aluminum is a high-strength alloy with excellent fatigue resistance, making it ideal for long-term durability applications. 5052-H32 aluminum is a high-strength, corrosion-resistant alloy that is ideal for harsh environments.
Overall, aluminum extrusion is a versatile and cost-effective method for creating complex shapes and profiles from aluminum alloys. By selecting the right alloy and extrusion process, you can create custom aluminum extrusions that are strong, durable, and meet the specific requirements of your application.
