Aluminum Extrusion Profiles: How to Specify for Your Project
Aluminum extrusion is a process where a heated aluminum billet is forced through a steel die to create a specific cross-sectional shape. The result is a continuous profile with complex shapes impossible to achieve with other manufacturing methods. Profiles range from simple angles to intricate multi-void sections.
What Are Aluminum Extrusion Profiles?
Aluminum extrusion is a process where a heated aluminum billet is forced through a steel die to create a specific cross-sectional shape. The result is a continuous profile with complex shapes impossible to achieve with other manufacturing methods. Profiles range from simple angles to intricate multi-void sections.
Choosing the Right Alloy
6061-T6 is the most versatile general-purpose alloy, offering good strength and excellent machinability. 6063-T5/T6 is the architectural standard, with superior surface finish ideal for anodizing. 6005A-T5 offers higher strength for structural applications. 6082-T6 provides the highest strength in the 6000 series for load-bearing structures. For marine environments, 5083-H111 offers excellent saltwater corrosion resistance.
Understanding Temper Designations
Temper affects mechanical properties significantly. T4 (solution heat-treated + naturally aged): moderate strength, good formability. T5 (cooled from extrusion + artificially aged): standard architectural temper. T6 (solution heat-treated + artificially aged): maximum strength. O (annealed): maximum formability, lowest strength. Choose temper based on structural requirements and post-extrusion forming needs.
Dimensional Tolerances
Standard tolerances per EN 12020-2 or ASTM B221: wall thickness ±0.1-0.2mm depending on dimension, width ±0.2-0.5mm, angularity ±1°, straightness 1mm per meter (standard) or 0.5mm per meter (precision). Tighter tolerances are available but increase cost by 15-30%. Specify only the tolerances your application actually requires.
Surface Finish Options
Mill finish (as-extruded): most economical, suitable for hidden structural members. Anodized: excellent corrosion resistance, available in clear, black, bronze, gold. Powder coated: widest color range (any RAL color), excellent weather resistance. PVDF coated: premium architectural finish with 20+ year warranty.
Ordering from CoreMetal
CoreMetal supplies standard and custom aluminum extrusion profiles in alloys 6061, 6063, 6005A, and 6082. We offer standard shapes (angles, channels, tubes, I-beams) and custom profiles with minimum order quantities from 500kg. Surface finishing services include anodizing and powder coating. Contact Tracy for custom die development and pricing.
About Xi’an Coremetal Steel Co., Ltd.
CoreMetal is a leading Chinese steel supplier specializing in carbon steel, stainless steel, galvanized products, aluminum, and specialty alloys. With ISO 9001 certification and export experience to 60+ countries, we provide competitive pricing and reliable delivery for projects of all sizes. Contact Tracy at tracy@coremetalsteel.com or +86 18291910632 for inquiries.