Choosing the right aluminum alloy 12-08-2019

Pure aluminum is relatively soft. To overcome this, the metal can be alloyed with other metals.

Infinite number of aluminum applications

The extrusion process, combined with proper selection of alloy and quenching, provides an infinite number of applications and product improvements. Alloy 6060 offers a corrosion-resistant extrusion with an excellent finish. Alloys can be improved by heat treatment after extrusion.

The secret is in the mix

Aluminum is not just aluminum. There are hundreds of different alloys and your product needs one. We will help you find it.

Alloying aluminum

Pure aluminum is relatively soft. To overcome this, other elements are added to pure aluminum  – a process called alloying. Most of the aluminum reaching the marketplace has been alloyed with at least one other element.

Aluminum properties

Aluminum gets different properties depending on which elements are mixed in the alloying process. This makes the choice of alloy an important matter. You need to consider the product's requirements, including:

Strength

Formability

Production economics

Surface finish

Suitability for decorative finish

Corrosion resistance

Sometimes it may be wise to choose an alloy with slightly lower strength and better formability to optimize costs.

Getting the surface right

 Our surface treatment methods can strengthen the advantages of aluminum and add a beautiful finish to your product.

Painting and anodizing

When we talk about aluminum surface treatment, we are talking primarily about painting and anodizing. Anodizing seals and protects extruded aluminum. Painting gives you an unlimited selection of color, with varied sheen and excellent color consistency.

 Surface treatment can also include embossing, grinding, polishing, tumbling, wrapping and printing.