4 Aluminum Fabrication Methods

Aluminum profiles are made from aluminum bars through extrusion and coloring, and are now widely used in many fields. Thanks to the flexibility and diversity of aluminum profile processing methods in practical applications, profile frames can be used as workbench frames, workshop protective enclosures, and more. To suit a wider range of applications, extruded profiles need further processing. The most common aluminum fabrication methods are: coloring, laser cutting, drilling, and threading. Below is a detailed introduction to these four methods for a better understanding of how aluminum profiles are used:

1. Coloring (Surface Treatment)

Coloring means applying color to the extruded aluminum profiles by anodizing or powder coating as required by customers. Surface treatment is not only for aesthetics but also to improve corrosion resistance and service life. Common surface treatments include anodizing, powder coating and electrophoresis. Most profiles on the market are silver-white (natural aluminum color), achieved through transparent anodizing. Black anodizing is also used, and options include sandblasted anodizing or bright anodizing.
Coloring is a key step to enhance the quality and value of profiles. For curtain walls and doors/windows, the surface effect directly affects overall appearance and grade.

2. Laser Cutting

Cutting is one of the most fundamental processing methods for aluminum profiles. Common cutting methods include laser, mechanical, and water cutting.Laser cutting: When industrial aluminum profiles are extruded, they are 6.02 meters long. However, in actual applications, the length and dimensions vary and must be specified according to the frame design, including length, width, or angle size. In such cases, laser cutting machines are used to process the industrial aluminum profiles. Mechanical cutting is performed using sawing machines and cutting machines. Compared to other equipment, it is more common, has lower operating costs, and offers higher cutting efficiency. Water cutting utilizes high-pressure water jets for cutting. The cut surface is smooth, with no thermal impact, and does not generate heat on the profiles. According to the requirements of the design drawings, the profiles need to be cut into different lengths or angles.

3. Drilling

Some aluminum profile frames require bolts, plates, or connections to be installed, so drilling is necessary. Not only the profiles but also base plates and side panels often need holes. Common methods include manual drilling, mechanical drilling, CNC drilling, and punching. Accuracy of hole size, depth, and spacing must be ensured so that the processed profiles meet application requirements.

4. Tapping

Threading, also called tapping, is another common process. It means creating screw threads in pre-drilled holes so bolts can be securely fastened. This process is widely used in equipment frames, machine structures, and hardware fittings for doors and windows.

In addition to these four common methods, other processes like bending and milling are also frequently used.

Shenghai Aluminum has extensive experience in aluminum fabrication. Please feel free to contact us. We can provide professional solutions based on your project requirements. Please trust us choosing a reliable aluminum profile supplier is crucial for ensuring the quality of your products and meeting your delivery deadlines.