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The profiles in aluminium extrusions are obtained by forcing molten or semi-molten aluminium through a die in the form of the required shape. The die material is often steel or iron, though steel is more common due to its durability. The extrusion process results in a higher strength-to-weight ratio than steel. Varieties of these profiles include the following:
These profiles are used where high corrosion resistance is needed. Aluminium bars and rods can be used in making parts like gears and bushings. These profiles also find applications in crafting lightweight structures.
These profiles are primarily used in structural applications. Aluminium channels are commonly used for framing, such as window and door frames. They also act as reinforcements and provide additional support to structures while resisting corrosion.
Angle profiles are mainly applied in construction as structural support, where strength and versatility are required. Corner Aluminium profiles are used in building frames and heavy machinery, reinforcing structures because of their resistance to rust.
T-slots comprise a T-shaped groove along the aluminum extrusion profile, allowing other components to be slotted into position. This makes them ideal for modular construction in machinery guarding, conveyor systems, and light framework.
Aluminium tubes and pipes are extruded into hollow profiles. They are often used in fluid transfer and structural applications, such as aluminum scaffolding and railings, where lightweight but strong materials are required.
Aluminium profiles have distinctive features that make them very appealing in different domains. They include the following:
Aluminium naturally forms a protective oxide layer that makes it resistant to rust and corrosion. This extends the material's durability and applicability in environmental contexts with high moisture and adverse weather conditions.
Aluminium profiles have a high strength-to-weight ratio. This makes them very useful in applications where weight is a crucial issue, such as in transportation, construction, and manufacturing machinery and equipment. This is especially significant for industries where mobility is key and there is a constant need to be able to move the material, e.g., in aerospace and automotive.
Aluminium profiles come in different shapes and sizes. Their adaptability allows for easy accommodation of project-specific requirements. These profiles can be easily fabricated into multitudinous configurations for applications ranging from lightweight frames to intricate designs.
About three-quarters of the aluminium extracted can still be recycled. Recycling aluminium requires only about 5% of the initial energy used to extract the element. This makes it hugely cost-effective and environmentally beneficial.
Aluminium profiles can be anodised, painted, and powder-coated to enhance their aesthetic value and corrosion resistance. The anodising process helps to thicken the corrosion-resistant oxide layer, while powder coating gives a protective and decorative finish that doesn't easily peel, chip, or fade.
Aluminum profiles are extremely versatile because of their mechanical strength, light weight, and resistance to corrosion. Their uses include:
Aluminium profiles are widely used in constructing window and door frames. This is due to their resistance to rust and corrosion. They provide structural support, insulation, and aesthetic appeal.
Aluminium profiles are used to construct conveyors, machine guards, and frameworks. This is because they are easily formed into different shapes and are very durable. Their resistance to corrosion also helps them withstand the rigors of industrial environments.
Lightweight but strong, aluminium extrusion frames can be used in trucks, warehouses, and workshops to make racking and shelving. These frames would be easily adjustable and modular for various storage needs.
Aluminium profiles are extensively used in aerospace and automotive applications to help reduce weight and increase fuel efficiency. Due to their high strength-to-weight ratio and ability to be easily shaped into complex forms, they are ideal for constructing fuselages, frames, and various other components.
In modern designs, aluminum profiles are increasingly being used in furniture, especially for office solutions. These profiles allow for sleek and minimalist designs, providing the furniture with improved strength and versatility.
Aluminium profiles are used in making lightweight but strong display stands and frames, especially in retail and exhibitions. They also provide sign frames with an appealing finish and durability against outdoor elements.
Aluminium frames are commonly used in solar panels due to their resistance to weather elements. This helps retain structural integrity and increases the lifespan of solar installations.
One must consider various factors to choose the correct aluminium extrusion profiles. Key factors to put into consideration include:
Aluminium extrusion profiles have a variety of alloys. Each alloy has unique properties. For example, the 6061 alloy is corrosion-resistant and easily welded, making it ideal for structural applications. At the same time, the 6063 alloy is highly extrudable, making it suitable for architectural applications.
Aluminium profiles come in a variety of shapes and sizes, catering to different mechanical and architectural needs. Common designs include standard shapes such as squares, rectangles, angles, T-slots, and custom-made profiles tailored for specific applications. Regardless, buyers should go for profiles that best meet their functional requirements.
Surface finishing plays a huge role in enhancing the profile's aesthetic and functional value. Aluminium profiles are anodised, powder-coated, and wet painted. Finishing types enhance corrosion resistance and improve the profile's appeal. Anodising provides a hard, corrosion-resistant surface. Powder coating adds thick, durable and moisture-retentive layers that don't easily peel off.
Buyers should be on the lookout for profiles with adequate tensile strength, yielding strength, and elongation measurements. They are useful as indicators of the material's resistance to mechanical deformation and failure, especially under stress. Requirements mainly depend on the intended profile usage, e.g., some need high strength, while others require flexing.
Thermal conductivity and expansion are important considerations for profiles used in applications like heat exchangers or building façades. This is even more important when the profile will be subjected to high temperatures. Go for profiles that can efficiently dissipate heat or retain it, depending on the application. Also, ensure the thermal expansion rate is compatible with the materials used close to it to avoid any structural issues.
Regular cleaning of the profiles with mild detergents and water will help prevent corrosion and discolouration in the long run. The detergent should not be abrasive to avoid scratching the aluminium's surface. Additionally, profiles exposed to marine or industrial conditions should be cleaned more frequently to remove salt and other contaminants that cause corrosion.
Aluminium profiles have a higher strength-to-weight ratio than steel. While they are much lighter than steel profiles, they carry almost the same load. This makes them better than steel in most applications, especially those where aerodynamics are vital, such as in vehicles. They are also resistant to rust and corrosion contrary to steel. Lastly, due to their die-casting capabilities, they can be manufactured into complex shapes that would be much easier to achieve in steel.
Corner aluminium profiles help dissipate heat in a way that protects electronic components from overheating. They provide a large surface area for heat exchange. Being a good conductor, aluminium transfers the heat away from components to the surrounding air faster. Additionally, the anodised finish on some corner profiles enhances the thermal performance by increasing the surface area for heat dissipation.
Due to its distinct advantages, the construction, automotive, aerospace, machinery and equipment, and advertising and display industries use it extensively. Its mechanical strength, lightweight, and resistance to corrosion make it particularly useful in harsh environmental conditions and industrial applications. Its adaptability makes it an extremely versatile material for myriad uses.
Aluminium is highly recyclable. Recycled aluminium uses only 5% of the energy initially used to obtain it. This addresses the challenge of mining and energy use and reduces greenhouse gas emissions by around 80%. This makes it an outstanding sustainable solution to environmentally conscious businesses.
To mitigate corrosion, regular cleaning using mild soap and water is required. Abrasives should be avoided at all costs, as they damage the protective oxide or coating. Additionally, inspections should be conducted frequently to identify and treat corrosion or wear at its early stages. Lastly, ideally, frames should be replaced after 20 years of continuous exposure. More gets it durable indoor and semi-invasively patinaed frames.