When it comes to the construction industry, a large variety of materials are used in structural designs to maintain the strength of a building. Structural aluminum extrusion is one of the most commonly used materials in industrial and residential construction sites. Due to their low cost and high structural capacity, aluminum extruded products are used in numerous forms to increase the strength of a project.
Providing an excellent balance of weight and strength, aluminum is also known for being corrosion-resistant and heat-resistant. Aluminum extrusion building systems like roofing, shop fronts, and other joints are finished using extruded aluminum shapes.
The aluminum extrusion process involves pushing a preheated aluminum billet through an opening of a die, which creates different shapes and designs. While extruding aluminum, a hydraulic press is needed to put enough pressure to drive the metal through a die and get the desired shape. From hollow, semi-hollow, and solid forms, there is a wide range of options for manufacturers.
Furthermore, it has become an essential element in the construction industry for various needs, including interior supporting structures, electrical systems, design assets, staircases, elevator shafts, etc. Because of the flexibility and qualities of aluminum, architectural extrusions are the first choice of construction companies.
BENEFITS OF USING ARCHITECTURAL ALUMINUM EXTRUSION IN CONSTRUCTION
Reusability
The recyclability of aluminum is one of the main reasons why builders choose it without compromising its durability and weight capability. Instead of demolishing it during reconstruction, aluminum could be reused and help in saving the environment and energy usage. Apart from these, corrosion resistance, low cost, and easy maintenance are some of the benefits that aluminum extrusion offers to construction projects.
Performance
The thermal conductivity of aluminum significantly reduces heat loss during winter by offering warmer surface temperatures on the frames. The performance of the aluminum profile is higher as compared to other materials, mainly when used for internal systems.
Increased Aesthetics
Building materials made of extruded aluminum provide an excellent potential to create unique architectural design attributes in the project. These designs can be integrated into the structure as the flexibility of the aluminum extrusion process make it easy to create an aesthetically pleasing finish for any requirement.
High Strength
The aluminum extruded design has the highest strength-to-weight ratio as compared to steel. The structure sector is all about balancing weight and strength, which makes it an ideal solution for architectural designs.
ARCHITECTURAL APPLICATIONS OF ALUMINIUM EXTRUSIONS
Aluminum extrusion is a custom design requirement that can meet a wide range of specifications in construction and architectural projects.
- Architectural curtain walls and frames
- Windows, doors, and handles
- Cabinets and support frames
- Garden tools and gates
- Heat sinks for electrical systems
- Transportation design such as handrails, seats, elevator shafts
- Communication devices
STRUCTURAL ALUMINIUM ANGLES IN CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS
Like aluminum extruded frames and profiles, aluminum angles are also very common in the construction industry. Also known as L-shaped channels, aluminum angles are easy to machine, cut, and exert with corrosion resistance and a high strength-to-weight ratio to handle pressure. With various residential and commercial requirements, aluminum angles are used the most in architectural projects.
They come in various shapes and sizes and are made from 6063 aluminum alloy with a T6 temper, depending on the size and design requirements.
TYPES OF ALUMINUM EXTRUDED ANGLES
Architectural or structural aluminum angles are mainly designed in two types.
1) Rounded Internal Corners– Constructional applications that need a lightweight yet high-strength material need rounded internal corners.
2) Square Internal Corners– The most common aluminum angles have square corners from both sides. This type of angle is used for aesthetic structures.
APPLICATIONS OF ALUMINUM ANGLE EXTRUSION
- Constructing frames and braces
- Trailer supports and truck beds
- Table and countertop edging
- Furniture applications
- Aluminum corner guards
- Decorative moldings
- Mechanical finishes
OTHER TYPES OF STRUCTURAL EXTRUSION SHAPES
ALUMINUM BARS
Come in a wide range of shapes, aluminum bars are used to increase the strength of the architectural design with keeping the ratio in mind.
- Aluminum Round Bars
- Flat Bars
- Square Bars
ALUMINIUM EXTRUDED TUBES
Structural aluminum extrusions include aluminum tubes used in structural components, machinery, and fittings.
TYPES OF ALUMINUM TUBES
- Round Tubes
- Rectangular Tubes
- Square Tubes
ALUMINUM EXTRUDED U CHANNEL
Aluminum U Channels are used for various applications such as architectural trim formwork, structural support brackets, and more. They are typically designed in both equal and unequal dimensions for different purposes.
With the rapidly changing processes of manufacturing, the world is headed toward a greener future. Aluminum is highly recyclable and reusable metal. This makes it the “metal of the future”. Even today, it is used across every industry.