There are many benefits associated with using custom aluminum extrusions for parts, products, and components in manufacturing for consumer goods, as well as for commercial and industrial needs. Aluminum is used across just about every type of industry, from safe products for foodservice to aerospace and military applications. Small parts or massive structural aluminum components can all be created effectively and efficiently through the use of custom extrusion design. Aluminum itself is a very valuable material, providing a cost-effective, environmentally-responsible resource for manufacturers in the United States and around the globe. Extruded aluminum offers even more benefits with custom designs working to reduce the need for post extrusion operations to streamline production and minimize cost requirements.
Reason #1 – So Many Options
As you might have guessed, one of the biggest reasons why industry should use custom extrusion design is because the options for this fantastic material are endless. Some clients create a single part or component, which can be used alone or interlocked with another aluminum part or other type of metal component. The natural oxide layer of protection found in extruded aluminum means that it won’t corrode and that it can be used in extreme environments and under abrasive or corrosive conditions. Aluminum offers many benefits due to its high strength-to-weight ratio, can tolerate high temperatures without producing toxic fumes, increases strength in very low temperatures, and is an excellent conductor of heat and electricity. Custom aluminum extrusions can be made to suit any manufacturing need, industry requirement, or government regulation.
Reason #2 – Cost-Savings
While we have already touched down on the fact that custom extruded aluminum is very cost-effective, we haven’t explained why. Manufacturers can cut their costs for the production of intricate or specialized parts and components through custom extrusion design, eliminating the need for many secondary operations that can cost both time and money. Custom aluminum extrusions can negate the need for welding and some additional manufacturing services to help improve lead times and get the parts to assembly even faster. In fact, at our one-stop-shop, we provide everything from engineering and design support in the early stages of development on through the extrusion process, any required additional operations, custom finishing, and even assembly to help our clients achieve their goals, maintain high-quality standards, and reduce their overall costs considerably.
Reason #3 – Environmentally-Friendly
Many manufacturers are looking for ways to improve the way that they do things and reduce their overall carbon footprint on the environment. Aluminum itself is an extremely environmentally-friendly material, as it is the most plentiful metal on the planet. Aluminum can be recycled, reused, and extruded over and over again without losing any of its inherent qualities. Manufacturers are using aluminum to create roofing and construction materials that can help to make buildings more energy-efficient, either by reflecting heat to lower cooling costs in the summer or by making the structure more protected from heat loss during the winter. Custom extrusion design is used to create frames for windows, doors, and even solar energy panels to further improve efficiencies. However, when custom aluminum extrusions are produced at Silver City Aluminum, we take it a step further to minimize scrap and waste by providing precise measurements before every order is filled.
Reason #4 – Strength and Durability
Aluminum further increases its value by being extremely strong and durable. While the natural oxide layer helps to prevent corrosion, other enhancements, such as custom finishing options like anodizing, powder-coating, and painting, can increase protection even further. The high strength-to-weight ratio of aluminum makes it extremely valuable in transportation industries, including auto manufacturing and trucking, where increased fuel economy is in demand; and the aerospace industries where lightweight materials are a necessity for performance. The density of aluminum does not compromise its strength, providing the durability of steel at just one-third the weight. The structural integrity of custom extruded aluminum is exceptionally robust, offering a variety of additional properties and benefits depending on the alloy that is chosen for extrusion.
Reason #5 – Complex Shapes
Custom aluminum extrusions offer manufacturers opportunities above and beyond standard extrusion profiles. Designers can overcome issues, such as corrosion and durability, through engineering. Our team of highly trained and experienced engineers works with each client in the development of custom extrusion design to help them to achieve their goals. Many of the services that we provide exceed industry standards to help improve quality control, increase longevity, and enhance the durability of the finished piece. The sooner we can start working with clients in the development phase, the better the results. Custom aluminum extrusions can be created in any complex shape or in long, continuous pieces to satisfy any manufacturing need.
If you are ready to start designing a custom profile for extruded aluminum to reduce post extrusion operations and improve the value of your finished project, contact Silver City Aluminum directly by calling 508-824-8631. You can also begin your order by using our online contact form to describe your needs and requirements for parts, products, and components. With many years of experience and a solid reputation in the industry for providing top-notch custom extrusion design, our team can help you to achieve your goals and exceed expectations for standard and custom aluminum extrusions.