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CapabilitiesMetal Extrusion Services


METAL EXTRUSION SERVICES

HIGH QUALITY, LOW COST METAL EXTRUSIONS WITH XOMETRY

See How It Works
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START YOUR METAL EXTRUSION QUOTE

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covered by US Pat. Nos. 11,086,292 and 11,347,201. Other patents pending.

Extrusion Overview

Extrusion Types and Profiles

Extrusion Materials

Finishes

Applications

Advantages and Disadvantages

Why Xometry?


New!


THE EXTRUSION PROCESS

Metal extrusion is the manufacturing process of choice when producing high
volumes of material with a constant cross-section. With the extrusion process,
metal material is forced through the shaped opening of a die using high
pressure, resulting in an extruded profile. These profiles range from simple
shapes like round or rectangular tubes, U- or H-channels, or more complex
profiles with multiple internal hollows and external features, such as 80/20 and
T-slot framing bar. Extrusion is also standard for wall and window trim as a
cosmetic and structural framing component. The raw material typically comes in
billet form, which is heated and placed into part of the extrusion press called
the container. A die stack sits on the other end of the container, forming the
opening, which shapes the material to the desired shape using direct or indirect
extrusion methods. The extrusion is then quenched, straightened, sawed to the
specified length, and inspected for dimensional consistency and accuracy.
Extruded products can easily be post-processed to add features outside the
channeled profile.


The extrusion profile can be almost any shape and be either solid or hollow with
one or more hollow sections. Extrusions with hollow sections require a
multi-part die. The material is forced around piercing mandrels supported in the
first die, forming the inner profile. The material separates and then is forced
or “welded” back together by the second die, creating the outer profile. The
smallest circle that will fit around the profile determines the press size. The
larger the circumscribed circle, the larger the extrusion press
required. Xometry specializes in extruding aluminum materials, representing
roughly 80% of all extruded metal parts. Aluminum extrusions are everywhere,
from window casings to handrails to electrical housings.


Our project managers and experts personally review and manually quote each metal
extrusion project to ensure we meet your unique needs while providing a fast and
easy manufacturing experience. Learn more about the process and our capabilities
in the sections below.


METAL EXTRUSION WITH XOMETRY


START A QUOTE

Upload your files to the Xometry Quote Engine and configure your project. Our
team will consult with you to ensure your specifications, lead time, and price
fit your project needs. We will provide a DFM report for approval before kicking
off tooling.


SAMPLE APPROVAL

Once your project is kicked off we will build a high-quality metal extrusion
die. After the tooling is created we will run and send out part samples for
approval.


PRODUCTION BEGINS

Once you're satisfied with your samples, we move forward with production and
deliver the parts. Rest easy knowing Xometry is handling supplier management and
logistics throughout the process. You own your tooling and can easily re-order
as needed to meet demand.




TYPES OF EXTRUSION AND EXTRUSION PROFILES

Xometry partners with the leading extrusion suppliers who utilize the most
sophisticated technology to deliver high-quality extrusions. Thanks to our
manufacturing network, we can support multiple types of metal extrusion and an
endless array of extrusion profiles. The sections below dive deeper into the
different extrusion methods and provide examples of standard extrusion profiles.



TYPES OF EXTRUSION


DIRECT EXTRUSION


Direct extrusion, also referred to as forward extrusion, is the most common
metal extrusion method. With this type of extrusion, a billet of material is
pushed through a container by a high-pressure ram. The material flows in the
direction of the ram motion and exits through the opening of the stationary die.
Direct extrusion allows for larger profile designs and a higher quality surface
finish than the indirect extrusion method.


There are some disadvantages to consider with this method. A large amount of
friction generates between the material and the walls of the container, which
results in decreased die face pressure and temperature variances. These factors
make it more challenging to control dimensional consistency and the material’s
properties.


INDIRECT EXTRUSION


With indirect extrusion, the material is placed into a container and secured.
The extrusion die moves with a hollow ram over the material, forcing it through
the die opening. Indirect extrusion is also sometimes referred to as backward
extrusion because the material flows in the opposite direction of the ram
motion. Since there is no relative movement between the material and container,
there is much less friction with this method, resulting in lower energy use and
less heat generation. With less heat, indirect extrusion generally has greater
control over dimensional consistency, material properties, and grain size when
compared with direct extrusion.


However, the drawback to this type of extrusion is a more significant limitation
on overall die profile size, as it must fit inside the hollow ram. The billet’s
surface impurities can find their way into the extruded product reducing the
overall surface finish and aesthetics.


HOT, WARM, AND COLD EXTRUSION


These are sub-categories of extrusion integrated into the primary methods
discussed above. The temperature of the billet relative to the room and material
recrystallization temperature defines hot, warm, or cold extrusion. Hot
extrusion is when the billet is heated well above the material’s
recrystallization temperature, often associated with the direct extrusion
method. The heating of the material softens it and prevents work hardening, so
it more easily flows through the die, reducing wear on the tooling. Warm
extrusion is when the material is heated above room temperature but remains well
below the recrystallization point. The material is not heated in cold extrusion
and remains at room temperature.


Warm and cold extrusion can increase the hardness and strength of the extruded
product due to no excessive raw material heating. These processes work best with
high ductility materials, such as aluminum. The warm and cold processes are
typical of the indirect metal extrusion method. While not drastically heating
the material can provide benefits, it can be harder on the tooling and reduce
the lifetime of the die. With this in mind, most manufacturers opt for hot
extrusion methods.



EXTRUSION PROFILES


Extrusion profiles represent the cross-sectional shape that forms the extruded
product. Xometrys custom manufacturing services enable you to get extruded parts
made with custom extrusion profiles. If you are looking to save cost and time by
post-machining an existing aluminum extrusion profile, we can do that too! Below
is a list of some off-the-shelf aluminum extrusion profiles we can modify via
another manufacturing process, such as our CNC machining service.


 * T Slot Aluminum Extrusions
 * Aluminum Angles
 * T-Bars, H-Bars, Z-Bars
 * I-Beams
 * U-Channels
 * Hat Channels
 * Rectangular Tubes
 * Round Tubes and Pipe




ALUMINUM EXTRUSIONS

Extruded aluminum makes up roughly 80% of all extruded metal products due to its
versatility across industries, mechanical properties, diverse finishing options,
and high ductility, making it ideal for extrusion processes. Most extruded
aluminum alloys are lightweight, resistant to corrosion, and have high thermal
and electrical conductivity. Some aspects of each alloy set it apart from the
others. To help you choose the right one for your project, we have compiled a
table below of the most commonly used alloys we offer and their unique
characteristics.


If your project requires stainless steel or other metal extrusions, we have a
“custom material” option within our quoting interface. This option enables you
to submit custom requests which we will be happy to review and explore further
with you.


EXTRUDED ALUMINUM ALLOYS COMPARISON TABLE

Alloy NameDescriptionCharacteristicsSuitable Applications
Alloy Name

6061

Description

6061 is a versatile alloy that can be heat-treated to tempers such as 6061-T6.
Magnesium and silicone are primary alloying elements that give the material high
structural strength, toughness, and weldability.

Characteristics
 * High strength and toughness; 40,000 PSI tensile yield strength*
 * Great corrosion resistance
 * Good fatigue resistance
 * Doesn't respond as well to finishing
 * Heat treatable

Suitable Applications

Transportation components for automotive and marine environments

Alloy Name

6063

Description

6063-T5 is a very economical heat treatable alloy with a smaller grain structure
than 6061 alloys. 6063 is more common for extrusions than 6061. It can form
parts with thin walls and responds well to finishing processes, making it
suitable for decorative applications.

Characteristics
 * Responds well to finishing
 * Great corrosion resistance
 * Easily extruded and economical
 * Ideal for thin-wall applications
 * Relatively low strength; 20,000 PSI yield strength*
 * Heat treatable

Suitable Applications

Decorative trim, heat sinks, architectural components

* Typical minimum representative values ; material temper may affect mechanical
properties


Slide 1 of 1






Array of metal extrusions with different finishes


AVAILABLE EXTRUDED PART FINISHES

Xometry makes adding additional finishing steps to your metal extrusion project
easy. Our vast network of finishing suppliers allows us to apply a variety of
finishes to your parts. We have what you need, whether it’s functional or
cosmetic finishes. The finishes we offer for our metal extrusion process are
detailed below.


As-Extruded

The finish will be left unprocessed and remain as-extruded. Surface roughness
can vary between alloys due to differences in grain structure but typically will
fall between 64µin - 125µin Ra. Noticeable grain lines or discolored streaks may
be present.

Anodized (Type II Or Type III)

Type II anodizing creates a corrosion-resistant oxide finish. Parts can be
anodized in different colors—clear, black, red, and gold are the most common.
Type III is a thicker finish and creates a wear-resistant layer in addition to
the corrosion resistance seen with Type II. Anodized coatings are not
electrically conductive.

Powder Coating

This is a process where powdered paint is electrostatically sprayed onto a part,
then baked in an oven. This creates a strong, wear- and corrosion-resistant
layer that is more durable than standard wet painting methods. Various colors
and textures are available to create the desired aesthetic.

Wet Painting

All extruded metal parts can be wet painted in various paint formulations and
colors. For color matching, paint brand and number should be specified on your
included drawings or notes.

Plating

Extruded parts can be plated with electroless nickel, nickel, brass, tin,
chrome, chromate, Teflon, silver, and gold.

Chemical Film

A chromate conversion coat can be applied to protect aluminum from corrosion and
improve the adhesion of paints and primers. Chemical film conversion coatings
also allow the metal to retain its electrical conductivity while providing
corrosion protection to the surface.

Media Tumbled

Parts are subjected to vibratory media tumbling to remove sharp edges and smooth
surfaces. Suitable for smaller pieces that can fit within the bowl or barrel of
the tumbler.

Custom

Don’t see the finish you need? Select “custom” in our quoting interface and let
us know what you are looking for, and we will be happy to explore additional
options for you!


READY TO GET STARTED ON YOUR EXTRUSION QUOTE?

Get Your Quote




APPLICATIONS OF EXTRUSION

Metal extrusion products can be found all around us in our daily lives. You can
find them from metal windows and door frames to structural components for
architecture and airplanes. Metal tubing, shaped bars, and angle stock are all
created through extrusion. Many custom manufactured parts are made from these
standardized extruded shapes. Metal extrusion is often the best, if not the only
way, to create components with continuous complex cross-sections at scale while
remaining economical. Some industries that use the process include automotive,
aerospace, marine, architecture, construction, food processing, and electronics.

 * Aircraft structural components
 * Window frames, door frames, trim
 * Electrical connector housings
 * Conveyors
 * Ladders and scaffolding
 * Complex thin walled enclosures
 * Heat sinks




METAL EXTRUSION ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES


ADVANTAGES OF METAL EXTRUSION


Dimensional Accuracy and Stability

Modern extrusion presses and processes produce close tolerance extruded shapes
that are durable and dimensionally stable. The process is also suitable for
brittle and ductile materials.


Low Part Cost

With careful design, extruded frames and housings can eliminate multi-part
assemblies. High production volume is also easily achievable and economical.


Lower Tooling Cost

The simplicity of the extrusion process yields 80-90% lower tooling costs than
other processes like injection molding or die casting.


Part Complexity

Extrusion is well suited for creating parts that have complex cross-section
forms, including features such as undercuts, T-slots, and grooves.



DISADVANTAGES OF METAL EXTRUSION


Initial Setup Cost

Aside from the piece cost of the extrusions, there are also costs associated
with building the dies and tooling. These costs are represented by tooling and
setup fees.


Design Limitations

While the process enables complex profiles, it can be restrictive to design
freedom. The reason being is the cross-section of the extrusion must remain
constant. Features such as countersunk holes, pockets, or bosses cannot be
extruded and will require additional post-machining steps.


Lead Times

The pool of extrusion manufacturers is smaller due to the heavy machinery and
facility requirements associated with the process. In addition, lead times for
the production and iteration of dies can take weeks. Due to these factors, lead
times for initial parts deliveries are typically four to six weeks.






WHY CHOOSE XOMETRY FOR EXTRUSION SERVICES?


ENDLESS OPTIONS

Choose from millions of possible combinations of materials, finishes,
tolerances, markings, and certifications for your order.


EASY TO USE

Get started with our easy-to-use platform and let our experts take care of
managing the project from locating the right manufacturing partner to delivery
logistics.


VETTED NETWORK

We are ISO 9001:2015, ISO 13485, and AS9100D certified. Only the top shops that
apply to become suppliers make it through our qualification process.

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