Aluminum Extrusion Fabrication Processes
How different types of fabrication processes work
How Stuff Works describes aluminum extrusion as the process in which aluminum is fed into varying shaped die openings to create differently shaped products. The Aluminum Association recognizes extrusion as a popular process because it allows for creativity when forming aluminum extrusion products. Once aluminum is extruded, fabrication begins. Aluminum extrusion fabrication includes precision cutting, computer numerically controlled (CNC) machining, mitering, punching, notching, drilling, and high-speed cutting of aluminum extrusions to construct aluminum parts.
Precision cutting of aluminum extrusions is used to create integral parts for important everyday items. Various precision saws can be used to cut different angles. Depending on the precision saw needed to fulfil a client’s specific requirements, tolerance variations can differ greatly. Precision cutting accuracy levels are affected by the type of precision saw needed for a required task, but it is more precise than mitre cutting.
After precision or mitre cutting, punching is the next step in the aluminum extrusion fabrication process. Punching is regarded as the most common aluminum extrusion fabrication process. In many cases, products require specified hole sizes to be punched repeatedly. Before punching an aluminum extrusion, the punching force must be calculated. There are various styles of punch tips, including concave and roof-topped. Some punch tips can help reduce the tonnage required to complete a task. Punching utilizes a punch press to create holes in aluminum extrusions. The resulting hole correlates to the size of the punch. Economically, punching is considered to be the most popular way to produce different hole sizes in aluminum extrusions.
Depending on the size of the aluminum extrusion, notching is a process in which a notch is punched into the product. In small-sized aluminum extrusions, notching utilizes punching tools to produce the notch. Plasma cutting tools are used for large-sized aluminum extrusions.
Although drilling is a difficult and precise secondary extrusion fabrication process, it is the preferred way to bore or enlarge holes in aluminum extrusions. Although drill speeds can be controlled using computer numerically controlled (CNC) machines, it is important for the drilling process to be done using high speeds. Unlike punching, the resulting hole will be larger than the size of the drill bit.