Aluminum Alloy Extrusion: How to Choose the Right Alloy for Your Product

Choosing the right aluminum alloy extrusion is not a one-size-fits-all decision. It requires a thorough understanding of the material properties, application requirements, and project constraints. By considering factors such as strength, corrosion resistance, formability, and cost, you can choose an aluminum alloy extrusion that not only meets but exceeds the expectations of your project.

Table of content:

• Exploring aluminum alloy extrusion: key insights
• Key factors in aluminum alloy extrusion
• The role of customization in aluminum extrusion

Exploring aluminum alloy extrusion: key insights

Selecting the appropriate aluminum alloy extrusion is a critical step in ensuring the success of any project. Different alloys offer varying properties that can significantly impact the performance, durability, and cost of the final product. Whether you are designing components for the automotive industry, creating profiles for architectural applications, or developing custom solutions for the energy sector, understanding the characteristics of each aluminum alloy extrusion option is key to making an informed decision.

Here are the main alloy categories relevant to aluminum alloy extrusion:

1. 1000 series - pure aluminum: This series, comprising 99% or higher aluminum content, is known for excellent corrosion resistance, high electrical conductivity, and good workability. However, they offer relatively low strength, making them ideal for aluminum alloy extrusion used in electrical and chemical industries where these properties are prioritized over mechanical strength.
2. 2000 series - copper alloys: These alloys are recognized for their high strength and good machinability, making them suitable for aerospace applications. However, their lower corrosion resistance compared to other series requires careful consideration during the aluminum alloy extrusion process.
3. 3000 series - manganese alloys: With excellent corrosion resistance and good formability, the 3000 series is commonly used in applications like beverage cans, roofing sheets, and cooking utensils, showcasing the versatility of aluminum alloy extrusion.
4. 5000 series - magnesium alloys: These alloys are highly regarded for their superior corrosion resistance, high strength, and good weldability, making them ideal for marine applications, automotive components, and pressure vessels produced through aluminum alloy extrusion.
5. 6000 series - magnesium and silicon alloys: The most versatile of all, the 6000 series alloys combine good corrosion resistance, high strength, and ease of extrudability. They are widely used in structural applications, including building frames, automotive parts, and custom profiles, making them a popular choice for aluminum alloy extrusion.
6. 7000 series - zinc alloys: Known for their very high strength, these alloys are primarily used in aerospace and sporting equipment. However, their use in aluminum alloy extrusion requires careful attention to corrosion resistance and machinability.

In other words, selecting the right alloy for aluminum alloy extrusion is essential to achieving the desired properties and performance for any project. Profall specializes in using high-quality alloys that are well-suited for a variety of applications. Our standard aluminum alloys include the 1050, 1070, 3103, and 6060 series (such as 6063 aluminum), which offer excellent balance in terms of strength, corrosion resistance, and workability. These alloys are ideal for sectors such as engineering, construction, automotive, and many more. 

Key factors in aluminum alloy extrusion

When selecting the right aluminum alloy extrusion for your project, it's important to balance several factors to meet specific requirements:

• Strength and durability: applications demanding high structural integrity, such as construction or transportation, benefit from the 6000 or 7000 series alloys. These provide a good balance between strength and weight in aluminum alloy extrusion.
• Corrosion resistance: for projects exposed to harsh environmental conditions, such as marine or coastal applications, the 5000 series alloys are preferred due to their superior resistance to corrosion, making them ideal for aluminum alloy extrusion.
• Formability and machinability: if the design requires complex shapes or intricate details, alloys from the 6000 series offer excellent workability. The ease of machining and forming these alloys makes them perfect for custom aluminum alloy extrusion projects.
• Thermal and electrical conductivity: in applications where conductivity is crucial, such as in electrical enclosures or heat sinks, the 1000 series alloys, with their high aluminum content, are a suitable choice for aluminum alloy extrusion.
• Cost considerations: while high-performance alloys like the 7000 series may offer exceptional strength, they are often more expensive. Balancing cost with performance needs is essential to optimize aluminum alloy extrusion for cost-efficiency.

The role of customization in aluminum extrusion

At Profall, we understand that each project is unique, which is why we offer extensive customization options for our aluminum extrusions. By collaborating closely with our clients, we tailor the choice of alloy and extrusion process to meet specific project requirements, ensuring optimal performance and efficiency. 

Whether you need profiles with tight dimensional tolerances, specific surface finishes, or enhanced mechanical properties, our team is equipped to provide aluminum alloy extrusion solutions that precisely match your needs.

For more information on selecting the appropriate aluminum alloy extrusion for your needs, contact Profall today.