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An Introduction to Metal Extrusion

What is Extrusion

If you’re searching for a copper extrusion manufacturer or a copper extrusion supplier, you might be curious about what extrusion involves. At its core, metal extrusion is a process that’s specifically designed to create objects of a cross-sectional profile. During the process, some material is sent into a die of the choice cross-section.

Why Extrusion

One of the main reasons why people utilize metal extrusion is because it creates very complex cross-sections. For example, if you’re looking for custom copper extrusions, you may want more complex cross-sections. Moreover, if you’re working with brittle materials, you don’t need to worry. Any material used will only encounter sheer and compressive stress, helping it to endure the process.

Multiple or Whole

Not every extrusion process is the same. If you need something longer, consider going with a continuous extrusion process. If you need multiple pieces, consider going with a semi-continuous extrusion process. The real difference between these two processes is that they either create one large piece or multiple smaller pieces. Either process can occur while the material is hot or cold.

Step by Step

First, for either hot or warm extrusion, the material is heated. The material is then set in a container on a press. Afterward, a dummy block is set behind the material. A ram pushes out the material, sending it out of the die. If better properties, the material might be heat treated or cold worked to produce the final result.

Hot Extrusion

This process happens at a temperature above the point at which the material can recrystallize. Because of this, hot extraction is a kind of hot working process. Throughout the process, the material is kept from hardening. This allows materials to pass through the die easier. Generally, hot extrusions involve using a horizontal hydraulic press then cold drawn to final dimensions.

Cold Extrusion

This kind of extrusion is normally done at either room temperature or near room temperature. However, unlike hot extrusions, cold extrusions do not require oxidation and can provide better material strength. Cold extrusions can also be completed at high speeds, allowing them to produce more finalized products in shorter amounts of time.

What Next

When you talk to copper extrusion manufacturer, consider asking them what they would recommend for your extraction. Perhaps you should mention the application you have for the extraction and how that might affect the creation process. Keep in mind that not every extraction needs to be the same.