The ability for engineers to utilize a near-net shape process coupled with a list of superior physical characteristics, offers unsurpassed advantages through the aluminum extrusion process. Aluminum has numerous design advantages, in terms of physical and chemical characteristics as well as providing beneficial tooling advantages and reduced lead-times.
Tooling Advantages of Aluminum Extrusions
Anodizing is one of the most common and durable chemical finishes. It uses direct current in an electro-chemical process to form a resilient, porous oxide film on the aluminum surface. Aluminum anodizing is an effective means of protecting aluminum alloys from atmospheric attack. When exposed to the atmosphere, untreated aluminum naturally forms a clear oxide layer that offers a high degree of universal protection. Common products requiring the anodizing processes include building products, appliances, food preparation equipment, home and office furniture, sporting goods, electronics, marine and recreation products, durable medical and electromedical components.
| Process |
Typical Tooling $ |
Tooling Lead-Time |
| Aluminum Extrusion |
$1,000 - $2,500 |
10-14 days |
| Vinyl Extrusion |
$1,500 and up |
21 – 24 days |
| Injection Molding |
$20,000 and up |
42 – 56 days including offshore |
| Die Casting |
$25,000 and up |
56 – 84 days |
| Roll Forming |
$25,000 and up |
70 – 84 days |
| Stampings (short run) |
$1,450 and up |
49 – 56 days |
| Stampings (long run) |
$5,000 and up |
49 – 56 days |
| Permanent Mold Casting |
$5,000 - $20,000 |
56 – 84 days |
| Sand Casting |
$1,500 - $5,000 |
14 – 28 days |
| Plastic Thermoforming |
$1,750 - $6,000 |
14 – 28 days |
| *Dependent on size and part complexities |
| |
The First To Market Always Wins
From prototyping to full production, no other process offers engineers faster turn-around from actual production tooling. While dies can be made in as little as a week or two, other processes such as roll form, injection mold, and die casting may require as much as 20 weeks. The best combination of product performance, quality, and cost is achieved when the customer, the product designer, and the aluminum extruder collaborate to develop the optimum product through innovative die designs with the ability to meet tight dimensional tolerances with minimal die deflection.
Alexandria Extrusion Company (AEC) recognizes the importance of providing customers with more than just high quality, precision extrusions. As a full-service aluminum extruder, customers take advantage of a fully staffed in-house tooling department. AEC’s degreed tool and die makers are involved from the initial design of every value added project. With 40 years of advanced tooling and die making experience, AEC’s customers have received aluminum extrusion tooling with minimal die deflections and achieved immediate success during the preliminary run of materials. AEC die trials are among the highest success ratings within the industry at 95%.
AEC offers an in-depth aluminum extrusion seminar at your site to educate designers and engineers about extrusion design options and tooling philosophies. If you would like to discuss your design and tooling needs or learn more about the aluminum extrusion seminar, please contact your sales specialist. Please visit our web site www.alexandriaextrusion.com for more information. |
