Extrusion

Aluminium profile production
Aluminium profile production

Extrusion is the process used in the production of aluminium profiles that makes it possible to create many new possibilities with respect to the construction and design of the profiles.

As if squeezing toothpaste out of a toothpaste tube

The process resembles squeezing toothpaste out of a tube. The toothpaste is a heated, cylindrical aluminium block also called a billet while the toothpaste tube is the so-called tool. As you can see in the illustration, the billet (pre-heated in an induction furnace to 450-500 degrees Celsius) is pushed through the tool/die, at which the profile is brought to the desired shape.

When the profile leaves the tool, it is cooled with water or air, after which the profiles are drawn while they are still "soft". This removes any tension build-up in the aluminium while the desired and correct profile dimensions are achieved. The profiles are then cut and afterwards given their final strength by being subjected either to heat and/or to cold hardening. 

Versatility and low tooling costs

Compared to other materials, the tooling costs for the production of aluminium profiles relatively low. The extrusion process is not only advantageous because of its versatility with respect to the design of the profiles, but is also associated with relatively low tooling costs.

Expertise is a guarantee for good design

As you can see in our article about profile design, which is available here (LINK), there are several design rules you have to take into account during the development of the tool, which ultimately guarantee you the best possible profile design.

Therefore, it is important to get the right guidance from the start. We stand ready to offer you our expertise and experience in the field, so you end up with exactly the best solution for you.