The core principle of aluminum profile processing is based on the excellent plasticity of aluminum and aluminum alloys. It's a metal processing technology that uses plastic deformation to obtain the target shape, size, and properties. The principles differ in each processing stage:
1. Melting and Casting Stage (Burnt Material Preparation): Primary aluminum/recycled aluminum is melted at high temperature, alloying elements are added to adjust the composition, impurities and gases are removed, and then it is cooled and cast into a round ingot. The core principle is the homogenization of the molten metal composition + solidification, providing a qualified blank for subsequent plastic processing.
2. Extrusion Forming Stage (Core of Profile Forming): This is the most crucial processing method for aluminum profiles. The principle is similar to squeezing toothpaste: Aluminum blanks heated to a plastic state at 400-500℃ are subjected to strong external force through an extrusion rod in an extrusion cylinder, forcing the aluminum material to undergo directional plastic deformation and flow out from the die orifice of a customized mold, directly obtaining a profile with the corresponding cross-sectional shape and size.
Process adjustments are made for different profiles: solid profiles are formed using forward/reverse/combined extrusion, while hollow profiles are formed through piercing needle + welding extrusion. Modern isothermal extrusion technology controls the outlet temperature fluctuation within ±10℃, reducing product defects caused by uneven deformation and improving quality uniformity.
3. Subsequent finishing stages
Different finishing principles apply:
Bending: Controllable plastic deformation of the aluminum profile is achieved through external force, with the outer layer under tension and the inner layer under compression. The target curvature is obtained by controlling the bending radius and springback compensation. Cold bending is suitable for simple shapes, while hot bending (200-300℃) can achieve complex curvature processing.
Tapping: Threads are cut into the through holes on the end face of the profile using a tap, providing a fixing structure for subsequent bolt connections.
Anodizing: Through electrochemical action, a dense and porous artificial oxide film grows on the surface of the aluminum profile. After sealing the holes, corrosion resistance and wear resistance are improved, and it can also be dyed for aesthetic effects.
