How are Aluminum Extrusions Used in the Solar Industry?

Aluminum extrusions have been used in the solar industry for decades, and we’re only going to see more of them in the future.

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In an industry where energy efficiency is key, aluminum will continue to be used as a core component of solar panels due to its versatility, durability, and strength-to-weight ratio. Read on to learn more about how this material can be used in solar energy production.

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This metal is also easy to work with and doesn’t require a lot of heavy machinery or equipment. Since aluminum alloys can be strong enough to hold up just about anything, it’s also great for some long spans without needing steel reinforcements.

Why Choose Aluminum Extrusions For Solar Panels

Solar panels require a lot of space. Structures need to be built to house even residential-sized panels, which is an expensive and difficult task. To create affordable and easy-to-build housing structures, some solar construction agencies are turning to extruded aluminum.

Aluminum extrusion creates a structure out of long pieces of metal that can be laid down on a site or bolted together as needed to create storage areas for the panels to rest on. This material is much less expensive than building with silver, copper, or steel, so it is a very popular way of saving money and energy without sacrificing durability.

An extruded aluminum frame can hold solar panels precisely in place, providing stability, and improving productivity.

Not only does extruded aluminum save money because it requires less labor to assemble, but it also uses fewer materials during construction, which means you’ll generate fewer greenhouse gas emissions while putting your panel together!

To discuss how extruded aluminum could help you create more effective solar panel casings for an affordable price, contact us at Kloeckner Metals today.

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Did you know many of Kloeckner Metals’ nationwide branches boast special processing capabilities for the solar industry? Download our solar brochure now to see how Kloeckner Metals can service your solar needs.

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Aluminum extrusion profiles are essential materials in various industries, including construction, automotive, electronics and aerospace. They are long, continuous shapes created by forcing aluminum through a shaped opening in a die. The aluminum extrusion process involves heating the metal to a specific temperature, which allows it to flow more easily through the die. The resulting profiles can be cut to the desired length and used in a variety of applications.

Aluminum profiles can be designed for specific requirements. They offer high strength-to-weight ratios, corrosion resistance and thermal conductivity as well, making them ideal for use in different environments.

In recent years, demand for aluminum extrusion profiles has increased significantly. This growth can be attributed to the advantages of aluminum over other materials such as steel and plastic. With an understanding of their different types and uses, you can make informed decisions when selecting the right profile for your markets.

Types and their uses

The common types of aluminum extrusion profiles and their uses include:

1. Standard profiles: The most common, these come in a wide range of shapes and sizes. They are typically used in window and door frames, curtain walls and structural framing.
2. Heat sink profiles: Used in electronic devices, such as computer processors and LED lights, these feature fins or grooves that increase their surface area for efficient heat dissipation.
3. T-slot profiles: They are used primarily in industrial applications, such as machine guarding, workstations and structural framing. These profiles feature a T-shaped slot that allows for the attachment of various components, making them highly versatile and modular.
4. Conveyor profiles: Designed for use in conveyor systems, they provide a lightweight and durable solution for material handling applications.
5. Solar panel mounting profiles: These profiles are specifically designed for mounting solar panels, offering a lightweight and corrosion-resistant alternative to traditional steel mounting systems.

Shapes, sizes, textures, colors and brightness

Aluminum extrusion profiles come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, textures, colors, and brightness levels, allowing for maximum customization and versatility. Some of the most common shapes include angles, channels, tubes, bars and beams, which can be further customized by adjusting their dimensions, wall thickness and other design features.

In terms of textures, there are smooth, brushed and textured finishes available. The choice depends on the desired appearance and specific application requirements. For example, a smooth finish might be preferred for decorative uses, while a textured finish may be more suitable for slip-resistant surfaces.

Aluminum profiles can also be anodized or powder-coated in various colors, providing a wide range of aesthetic options. Anodizing is a popular choice for protecting and coloring aluminum, as it offers excellent corrosion resistance and a durable, long-lasting finish. Powder coating, on the other hand, provides a thicker, more uniform layer of color that is resistant to chipping and scratching.

Finally, aluminum profiles can be produced with finishes ranging from matte to highly reflective, again depending on the desired appearance and specific application requirements.

Grades of aluminum used

There are several different grades of aluminum used in the production of profiles and the most common include:

1. 6061 aluminum: A popular choice for its high strength, corrosion resistance and ease of extrusion, this is commonly used in automotive parts, structural framing and heat sinks.
2. 6063 aluminum: For its good extrudability, corrosion resistance and surface finish, it is typically used in window and door frames, furniture and architectural components.
3. 2024 aluminum: This high-strength aluminum alloy is primarily used in the aerospace field due to its enhanced fatigue resistance and strength-to-weight ratio.
4. 7075 aluminum: Another high-strength aluminum alloy, this is often used in aerospace and military applications due to its excellent strength-to-weight ratio and corrosion resistance.
5. 5052 aluminum: Known for its good weldability, formability, and corrosion resistance, this alloy is a popular choice for marine applications and other environments where exposure to water is a concern.

Extrusion dies

The most common types of extrusion dies used in the production of aluminum profiles include:

1. Solid dies: These are used to produce solid profiles such as bars, beams and angles. They feature a single, continuous opening through which the aluminum is extruded.
2. Hollow dies: They are used to make hollow profiles such as tubes and pipes. They feature a central mandrel around which the aluminum flows, creating the hollow shape.
3. Semihollow dies: These are used to create profiles with partially hollow shapes such as channels and T-slots. They feature a combination of solid and hollow sections within the die.
4. Multihole dies: Dies with multiple holes produce complex profiles with various openings or cavities. These can create intricate shapes and structures in a single extrusion process.

Extrusion machines

One of the key machines in this process is the aluminum extrusion machine. These are designed to apply the necessary force and heat to extrude aluminum through the die, creating the desired shape. The common types include:

1. Horizontal extrusion presses: These force the aluminum horizontally through the die, allowing for the production of long, continuous profiles.
2. Vertical extrusion presses: They thrust the metal vertically through the die. This configuration is often used for shorter profiles or when space constraints are a concern.
3. Direct extrusion presses: In direct extrusion, the aluminum billet is heated and then forced through the die. This process is the most common method of aluminum extrusion and is used to produce a wide range of profiles.
4. Indirect extrusion presses: In indirect extrusion, the die is held stationary while the aluminum billet is pushed through it using a ram. This method is less common than direct extrusion but is used for more complex profiles.
5. Hybrid extrusion presses: These combine the features of direct and indirect extrusion, allowing for the production of more complex profiles with greater precision.

Frequently asked questions about aluminum extrusion profiles

How are aluminum extrusion profiles made?

The process of making aluminum extrusion profiles involves several steps, including:

1. Billet preparation: Preparing the aluminum billet is the first step in the extrusion process. The billet is typically made from a specific grade of aluminum and is heated to a specific temperature to make it more malleable.
2. Extrusion: Once the billet is prepared, it is loaded into the extrusion press. This machine applies pressure, forcing the billet through the die. The die determines the shape and dimensions of the resulting profile.
3. Cooling: After extrusion, the aluminum profile is cooled using water or air to ensure it retains its shape and dimensions.
4. Cutting: Once the aluminum profile is cooled, it is cut to the required length using a saw or other cutting tool.
5. Finishing: The final step in the process is to finish the profile. This may involve anodizing or powder coating for corrosion resistance and added color.

What is the market size of aluminum extrusion profiles?

Globally, this market reached $87.84 billion in 2021, according to Grand View Research, and is projected to register a CAGR of 7.5 percent from 2022 to 2030. Straits Research puts it at $146.2 billion by 2030 based on a more conservative 6 percent CAGR from 2022.

Verified Market Research says that there is increasing use of aluminum extrusion profiles in the automotive industry. “Aluminum is getting favored for the making of lightweight vehicles besides, aluminum is 100 percent recyclable and impervious to erosion, thereby promoting growth.”

What are the factors to consider in selecting suppliers of aluminum extrusion profiles?

When selecting a supplier of aluminum extrusion profiles, several key factors should be kept in mind. These include:

1. Quality: Product quality is critical in ensuring that specific requirements of the application are met. It is important to select a supplier that adheres to strict quality control standards.
2. Lead time: This is essential, particularly when dealing with time-sensitive projects.
3. Customization: Pick a supplier that can manufacture profiles down to the most detailed requirements.
4. Pricing: It is important to choose a supplier that offers competitive pricing but will not compromise on quality.
5. Customer service: Great customer service ensures a smooth procurement process. Select a supplier that offers provides this kind of support.

In conclusion, aluminum extrusion profiles are versatile components used in various industries. Selecting the right supplier is critical in ensuring the profiles meet specific requirements. By considering the factors outlined in this guide, you can choose the right supplier for your market needs.

Online platforms nowadays allow buyers to easily look for the right manufacturer that meets their specific needs. Global Sources, for instance, not only provides site visitors with a comprehensive list of products and their details but also a list of suppliers that have been verified by third parties to ensure buyers are only dealing with legitimate companies. The B2B sourcing platform lets visitors filter and customize their searches, check the qualifications and relevant company information of the suppliers and take a virtual tour of some of the manufacturers’ facilities.

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