Look anywhere in your home or business, and you’re sure to find aluminum. From foil to computer parts to sink faucets, this versatile material has many uses. This metal also has a fascinating fabrication process called extrusion. Here are several facts to help you understand how the many aluminum components around you are made.

A Guide to Extruded Aluminum

1. Fabrication Requires Intense Heat & Pressure

Many metal products are created by pouring molten metal into a mold and allowing it to harden. Aluminum extrusion is different. Instead, the metal is made soft by exposing it to temperatures as high as 900 degrees Fahrenheit. The softened aluminum is then pushed through a die and exposed to millions of pounds of pressure. In this state, the metal is formed into its preferred shape—gutters, for example—and can then cool and reharden.

2. Applications Are Wide-Ranging

Following extrusion, aluminum has a wide range of uses. Aluminum won’t rust because of its natural properties, making it ideal for plumbing components and auto parts that will get wet. Once extruded, it won’t emit sparks because it’s non-ferrous, meaning it has no iron in it. This makes it ideal for use in explosives. Because extrusion results in a high strength to low weight ratio, aluminum is even used for space travel.

3. It Takes Many Finishes

Extrusion doesn’t just create functional metal products. By twisting and slicing the aluminum, unique products like jewelry can also be made. These can then take on glossy finishes to make them even more stunning. Extruded aluminum also accepts powder coating and paints well, creating even further design versatility.

If you’re looking for aluminum extrusion services in the Garden City, MI, area, contact International Extrusions. Backed by 80 years of experience, this local company creates products of all shapes and sizes. They pride themselves on precision and offer powder coating for indoor and outdoor metal products. Call (734) 427-8700 to speak with a team member, or visit the website to learn more about them.