The Art of Fabrication- Working with Square Aluminium Extrusions

The Art of Fabrication: Working with Square Aluminum Extrusions

Introduction

The Art of Fabrication: Working with Square Aluminum Extrusions is a comprehensive guide to the fabrication of square aluminum extrusions. It covers everything from basic metallurgy to advanced fabrication techniques, and is an essential resource for anyone working with this versatile material.

Material Properties

Aluminum extrusions are made from a variety of alloys, each with its own unique properties. Some of the most common alloys used for square extrusions include:

– 6061: A general-purpose alloy with good strength and corrosion resistance.

– 6063: A stronger alloy than 6061, but with slightly less corrosion resistance.

– 7075: A high-strength alloy with excellent fatigue resistance.

The choice of alloy will depend on the specific application. For example, 6061 is a good choice for general-purpose applications, while 7075 is a better choice for applications where strength is critical.

Fabrication Techniques

Square aluminum extrusions can be fabricated using a variety of techniques, including:

– Cutting: Extrusions can be cut using a variety of saws, including band saws, circular saws, and miter saws.

– Drilling: Extrusions can be drilled using a variety of drill bits, including carbide-tipped bits and twist bits.

– Tapping: Extrusions can be tapped using a variety of taps, including hand taps and machine taps.

– Bending: Extrusions can be bent using a variety of bending machines, including press brakes and brake presses.

– Welding: Extrusions can be welded using a variety of welding processes, including MIG welding, TIG welding, and brazing.

The choice of fabrication technique will depend on the specific application. For example, cutting is a simple and inexpensive way to create straight cuts, while bending is a more complex and expensive way to create curves.

Design Considerations

When designing a product that will use square aluminum extrusions, there are a number of factors that should be considered, including:

– Strength: The strength of the extrusion will depend on the alloy used and the thickness of the extrusion.

– Corrosion resistance: The corrosion resistance of the extrusion will depend on the alloy used and the finish applied to the extrusion.

– Aesthetics: The appearance of the extrusion will depend on the finish applied to the extrusion.

By considering these factors, engineers can design products that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

Conclusion

The Art of Fabrication: Working with Square Aluminum Extrusions is an essential resource for anyone working with this versatile material. It provides a comprehensive overview of the material properties, fabrication techniques, and design considerations that are involved in working with square aluminum extrusions. By understanding these factors, engineers can design and fabricate products that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing.