The aluminium extrusion technique has long been recognised as an ideal manufacturing process that combines lower costs with higher productivity. It was first used to increase the manufacture of clay pipes for the water system of eighteenth century England. A labourer would take a whole working day to make one pipe by hand. The extrusion process was developed when soft clay was forced through a mould. It enabled a single labourer to make several pipes in a day improving productivity and reducing costs. Manufacturers could confidently fulfil orders while turnover and profits were increased. In addition, the quality of the extruded pipes was significantly enhanced with each pipe being identical to the next.
Aluminium Extrusions
Eventually, the extrusion technique was applied to other metals such as steel and iron but with little success due to the difficulty of working with these dense, stiff metals. It was only when aluminium was extruded toward the end of the nineteenth century that manufacturers finally realised that the malleable properties of this lightweight metal were perfect for making extruded components. The low price and versatility of aluminium made it a perfect choice for inventors. The Wright brothers’ experiments with aviation at the beginning of the twentieth century led them to incorporate lightweight aluminium amongst the plywood frames of their flying machines. After the First World War, bi-planes were being made using mass-produced aluminium extrusions.
Manufacturing Success
Following the Second World War the expansion of the aviation industry was only possible due to the use of lightweight, cost-effective aluminium extrusions. Entire fleets of aircraft could be assembled, as they are today, from parts fabricated from aluminium extrusions. During the twentieth century the mass production of household goods increased as extruded aluminium became part of everyday life in the form of toasters, radiators and a host of other products. Components for a variety of industries from cars to satellites became widespread with the use of economic aluminium extrusions.
Up to Date
Aluminium is regarded as a versatile metal with superior qualities. The technique of extruding aluminium has now become one of the most popular methods in manufacturing. Aluminium extrusions are fast and cost-effective to produce resulting in higher productivity and lower costs. Repeat batches are easily produced from a single die. Edmo Limited have a long history of manufacturing aluminium extrusions. Contact them now if your project needs aluminium extrusions.
