6 11, 2024

How Taber Does That: Real-World Aluminum Applications That Protect a Nation

2024-11-06T14:21:35+00:00November 6th, 2024|

Silhouettes of two soldiers saluting against a sky with the text “Taber Does That: Real-World Aluminum Applications That Protect a Nation” and the Taber logo in the foreground.

How does the U.S. military stay ahead in global defense? It’s not just through advanced strategies and technology, but also the materials that support its infrastructure. Aluminum applications, particularly specialized alloys, play a critical role in defense, aerospace, and satellite construction. Offering a unique mix of strength, durability, and lightweight properties. The right alloy can be the difference between mission success and failure, whether on the battlefield, in the skies, or beyond Earth’s atmosphere.

Aluminum applications have evolved, now supporting everything from portable landing fields to satellite components. The defense and aerospace sectors need materials that withstand extreme conditions while maintaining their adaptability and lightness. Engineers rely on specialized aluminum alloys to meet these demands, ensuring robust and reliable systems.

The Role of Aluminum in Modern Applications

  • Aluminum in defense

Aluminum’s prominence in defense applications stems from its exceptional strength-to-weight ratio. It maintains high strength while remaining lightweight, a necessity for ground and aerospace military operations. 7000 and 2000 series aluminum alloys are widely used to create high-strength, lightweight armor and military vehicles. These alloys are tough and resistant to cracking, making them perfect for armored vehicles and portable military infrastructure.

  • Aluminum in aerospace

In aerospace, aluminum alloys are the pillar of modern aircraft construction. Its strength and lightweight properties are vital in constructing modern aircraft, from commercial airliners to advanced fighter jets. The 7000 series, in particular, is prized for its high strength and resistance to fatigue, ensuring that aircraft can endure the stresses of flight over extended periods.

Additionally, aluminum is also essential for aerospace structures that demand both strength and corrosion resistance. Critical components like wing spars, fuselage frames, and landing gear rely on these alloys for safety and longevity. Additionally, aluminum’s lightweight nature enhances fuel efficiency, making it indispensable in an industry where every kilogram saved improves both cost and performance.

  • Aluminum in satellites

Beyond Earth’s atmosphere, aluminum applications are key in satellite construction. Aluminum satellite components require high strength and resilience against the vacuum of space and extreme temperature changes. Durability and reliability are critical, as repair or replacement is impossible once in orbit. Advanced techniques like friction stir welding (FSW) enhance the mechanical properties of aluminum, ensuring that satellite components perform flawlessly in space.

Large satellite dish under a starry night sky, with surrounding treetops in the foreground.

As demand for satellites grows — whether for global communication, Earth observation, or space exploration — the need for lightweight, reliable materials like aluminum alloys becomes more apparent. Due to its versatility, various satellite components use aluminum, from the structural framework to the shielding that protects sensitive electronics from cosmic radiation.

Taber Extrusions: A Leader in Aluminum Applications Across Industries

Upcoming Upgrade: A New Era of Manufacturing Excellence

Taber Extrusions is set to revolutionize its production with the installation of a state-of-the-art press line, reaffirming its commitment to innovation and quality. This upgrade, detailed in their recent press release, represents a major leap forward in their manufacturing capabilities. The new press line enhances Taber’s ability to meet the complex demands of the defense, aerospace, and satellite sectors.

With this advanced press line, Taber can efficiently produce high-strength lightweight armor and critical components for military vehicles, aerospace structures, and satellite systems. The design of the press line enables it to handle a wide range of hard alloys, including the 7000 series and 2000 series, ensuring Taber continues to offer materials meeting stringent requirements for modern applications. This investment firmly positions Taber as a leader in advanced aluminum solutions, vital to the nation’s infrastructure and defense systems.

The top of the Statue of Liberty is on the left with the Taber logo below it. The headline to the right of the Statue of Liberty says, “The Shape of Endless Possibilities — Taber Extrusions” above a collage of four images of Taber Extrusions’ equipment and their warehouse.

Friction Stir Welding and Beyond

Taber’s friction stir welding (FSW) capabilities are particularly noteworthy across all sectors. FSW enhances the mechanical properties of 7000 series and 2000 series aluminum alloys. A feature that makes them perfect for durable, long-lasting components in defense, aerospace, and satellite industries. The opening of a new FSW facility in Arkansas further underscores Taber’s commitment to providing cutting-edge solutions for these critical applications.

In aerospace, Taber’s expertise in producing aluminum alloy for satellites ensures that components can endure the harsh conditions of space. Their focus on delivering BABA-certified (Build America, Buy America) aluminum extrusions reinforces their commitment to sourcing and manufacturing within the United States.

Taber Extrusions: Delivering High-Strength, Lightweight Aluminum Applications for Defense, Aerospace, and Satellite Industries

In industries where precision, durability, and reliability are non-negotiable, Taber Extrusions has established itself as a cornerstone supplier across the U.S. defense, aerospace, and satellite sectors. By providing high-strength, lightweight aluminum solutions tailored to the rigorous demands of these applications, Taber supports the ongoing efforts to innovate, protect, and advance both on Earth and beyond.

About Taber

Taber Extrusions specializes in producing architectural aluminum products in unique shapes and sizes for a wide range of industries, including aerospace, automotive, marine, and infrastructure.

Since its founding in 1973, Taber has expanded from its military roots to become a leader in the aluminum extrusion industry. With advanced tools and capabilities, Taber offers custom solutions such as precise micro-extrusions, friction stir welding (FSW) services, and a variety of aluminum alloy options. Their CNC machining line enables the creation of custom aluminum components for various industries, while their value-added machining services and raw material supply serve customers across North America.

Explore the full range of aluminum applications and solutions from Taber Extrusions and see how they can elevate your next defense, aerospace, or satellite project. Visit Taber Extrusions’ website to learn more about their innovative materials and manufacturing processes that are shaping the future.

For more information, you can also call Taber at 1-888-984-3795.

Taber follow us icon

Follow Us On Social Media!

16 09, 2024

Why Use Structural Aluminum for Window Walls and Curtain Walls

2024-09-16T22:38:55+00:00September 16th, 2024|

Image of a modern glass building facade with the text ‘Why Use Structural Aluminum for Window Walls and Curtain Walls’ and the Taber Extrusions inverted gold triangle logo.

 

Structural aluminum for window walls and curtain walls has become an essential material in modern construction. Initially, aluminum was costly and rarely used in civil engineering. However, the adoption of the Hall-Héroult electrolysis process in the 1920s drastically reduced production costs. It made aluminum a viable option for various structural applications.

The Empire State Building, constructed in 1931, marked a significant milestone. It utilized aluminum extensively in its structural and interior elements. This included the iconic fresco on the lobby ceiling and gold-accented walls. Its use slowed during the 1940s due to the material’s demand in aircraft manufacturing. Aluminum regained popularity in the mid-20th century, especially in construction of high-rise buildings and bridges.

Today, aluminum is valued for its light weight, durability, and ability to withstand extreme temperatures ranging from -80°C to +300°C. These properties makes it ideal for skyscrapers and architectural elements like window and curtain walls.

Structural Aluminum — A Versatile Choice for Modern Building Envelopes

To begin, Aluminum’s versatility is evident across various industries. Here are five of its most common applications in modern construction:

  1. Aluminum Skirting Aluminum skirting is known for its durability and resistance to blemishes, knots, and warping, unlike timber. It doesn’t crack, splinter, warp, or rot when exposed to moisture, making it a cost-effective and easily replaceable option.
  2. Roofs Aluminum is an outstanding material for roofing, often used in tiles and shingles due to its high corrosion resistance and lightweight nature. Its excellent strength-to-weight ratio makes it ideal for applications requiring both durability and minimal mass. Additionally, aluminum roofing cools quickly after exposure to sunlight, and its malleability allows for intricate design profiles, ensuring a long lifespan.
  3. Cladding Pure aluminum cladding offers a combination of non-combustibility, aesthetic appeal, and superior thermal properties. Aluminum sheets, especially when paired with reflective foil, provide insulation far exceeding that of thick brick or stone masonry, making them particularly effective in extremely cold environments.
  4. Window and Door Frames The high strength-to-weight ratio of aluminum makes it the preferred material for window and door frames. Aluminum frames are suitable for modern houses, high-rise buildings, and period homes alike. They can be powder-coated in any color, and the material’s inherent strength allows for minimal use while supporting large glazing areas and resisting wind deflection.
  5. Aluminum Curtain Walls The most extensive use of aluminum is in curtain walls, which are the large glass and grid structures seen on skyscrapers. Without aluminum, these structures would be too heavy. Structural aluminum for curtain walls is essential for weather resistance, reducing building sway, increasing energy efficiency, and offering versatile design possibilities for architects. They are crucial for modern urban architecture, combining functionality and aesthetic appeal.

 

Norman Foster’s architectural firm designed the concert hall, Sage Gateshead, in the United Kingdom to mimic the appearance of sound waves. Its composition includes aluminum, glass, and steel.

Understanding the Distinction Between Window Walls and Curtain Walls

In modern mid-rise and high-rise buildings, it’s common to see exteriors that appear to be entirely made of glass, replacing traditional materials with sleek, transparent facades. These glass structures are typically referred to as curtain walls or window walls. While these terms are sometimes used interchangeably, they represent distinct architectural elements.

Curtain Walls: Hanging Facades

Curtain walls are non-load-bearing facades attached to the exterior of a building’s floor slabs, functioning like a decorative curtain. These walls, typically six to ten inches deep, span from one slab to the next and are available in two main types: stick-built, assembled on-site, and panelized, arriving prefabricated and ready for installation.

While curtain walls add a striking visual element to a building, they require fire-stopping between floors, and can have noise transmission issues. They are generally more expensive than traditional slab-to-slab window systems.

 

A close-up view of a building’s white facade with a grid pattern of windows, some reflecting trees and the sky, creating a contrast between the natural and built environment.

Window Walls: Integrated Envelopes

The installation of aluminum window wall systems between floor slabs anchors them at the sill and the head and extends them from the interior to the exterior of the building. These non-load-bearing walls typically span floor to floor and are no more than twelve feet tall.

Prefabricated and ready to install, window walls do not require fire-stopping since they sit between floor slabs. Additionally, noise transmittance is less of a concern. Window walls offer a cost-effective and stylish option for achieving a ground-to-roof window appearance without the high price tag or operational problems. To maintain a continuous exterior facade look, you can use a slab bypass cover to ensure a seamless transition between floors.

Benefits of Using Structural Aluminum for Window Walls and Curtain Walls

Using structural aluminum for window walls and curtain walls comes with numerous advantages over traditional materials, making it a cost-effective, versatile, and sustainable choice for modern construction. Its lightweight nature, combined with high strength — especially in the 6XXX series — enables larger spans and innovative architectural designs without compromising structural integrity.

Additionally, aluminum’s design flexibility allows for the extrusion of complex shapes, crucial for intricate window and curtain wall systems. Beyond its practical benefits, aluminum is fully recyclable, aligning with sustainable building practices and reducing overall maintenance costs.

 

Infographic of the lifecycle of an aluminum billet in the extrusion process is illustrated in six stages: aluminum alloy chemistry, billet casting, the aluminum extrusion process, delivery, the use phase, and recycling.

Taber Extrusions: Your Trusted Aluminum Distributor

Taber Extrusions is a leading distributor of high-quality aluminum structural components, offering custom extrusion capabilities tailored to meet the industry’s specific needs. Their advanced manufacturing processes and specialty architectural aluminum components ensure top-tier products designed to your specifications.

Taber offers exceptional extrusion capabilities across all standard aluminum alloy series, including the popular 2000, 5000, 6000, and 7000 series, with additional options available upon request. They serve a diverse range of applications, including defense, marine, military, charging stations, satellites, architectural projects, bridges, curtain walls, and structural aluminum for window walls, all while adhering to stringent industry standards.

Processing Services Include:

  • Billet casting — Gulfport, MS Plant
  • Solution heat treatment
  • Stretcher/detwister — 750-ton capacity
  • Contour correction
  • Cut-to-length
  • Custom packaging
  • Light fabrication
  • Statistical process control
  • Quality assurance — defense contractor approved
  • Artificial aging ovens

Engineering Services Include:

  • Extrusion design assistance
  • Tolerances
  • CAD software (Auto CAD)
  • Ultrasonic testing — portable immersion (115 ft tank)
  • Analysis and testing capabilities — hardness, metallography, chemistry, mechanical property testing, conductivity testing

By choosing Taber, you gain access to unparalleled expertise and a steadfast commitment to quality in the aluminum industry. Contact them today to discover how they can support your aluminum needs.

Taber Extrusions at GlassBuild America 2024

Taber Extrusions will attend GlassBuild America 2024, the most significant event for North America’s glass, window, and door industries. Hosted by the National Glass Association, this event brings together industry professionals to showcase product innovations, attend educational sessions, and participate in live demonstrations. With over 9,000 attendees and 490 exhibitors, GlassBuild America provides an excellent platform for networking and discovering the latest trends and technologies. Join Taber Extrusions in Dallas, TX, from September 30 to October 2, 2024.

 

A crowd of people attending GlassBuild America, showcasing the entrance area with event banners and attendees gathered.

More About Taber Extrusions

Taber specializes in producing architectural aluminum products in unique shapes and sizes for industries including aerospace, automotive, marine, and infrastructure.

Since its founding in 1973, Taber Extrusions has grown beyond its initial military focus to become a leader in the aluminum extrusion industry. Utilizing various tools and capabilities, Taber creates custom solutions for its clients, offering precise micro-extrusions, friction stir welding services, and a wide selection of aluminum alloy options. Their CNC machining line enables the production of custom aluminum components for diverse industries. Additionally, Taber provides value-added machining services and supplies raw materials to customers across North America.

Visit taberextrusions.com or call 1-888-984-3795.

Taber follow us icon

Follow Us On Social Media!

28 04, 2024

Aluminum Extrusions for Satellites: A Look into Taber’s Satellite Component Capabilities

2024-07-15T22:23:06+00:00April 28th, 2024|

An illustration of a satellite in orbit with the text “Aluminum Extrusions for Satellites: A Look into Taber’s Satellite Component Capabilities” and the Taber logo superimposed on a backdrop of stars, signifying Taber Extrusions’ expertise in aluminum extrusions for satellites and aerospace components.

The vast expanse of space is a remarkable place where cutting-edge technology and innovation work hand-in-hand to achieve incredible feats. Satellites, for instance, play a crucial role in various applications, from communication and navigation to Earth observation and scientific research. However, these marvels of technology require satellite components that are not only functional but also lightweight, durable, and resistant to the harsh environment of space. In the aerospace industry, aluminum extrusions play a versatile role as they can act as structural components in spacecraft or integrate into complex mechanisms within the cockpit.

If you’re curious about how aluminum extrusions for satellites are shaping the future of space technology, read on as we explore the various applications of this material and how Taber Extrusions, a leading aluminum extrusion company, provides innovative solutions for the defense and aerospace markets.

The Surging Demand for Aluminum in Space

According to various reports, the global aluminum market is projected to grow steadily in the next few years, reaching an estimated 74 million metric tons by 2025.

The exciting news is that the aerospace industry is already looking at innovative ways to ensure the future aluminum supply can meet this demand. One such way is recycling and repurposing aluminum and its alloys, leading to further advancements in space, aircraft, and satellite component manufacturing. This means we can see more efficient ways of using the material soon.

Why Aluminum Extrusions Excel in Space Exploration

Did you know that aluminum extrusions play a crucial role in the success of satellites? There are several reasons why aluminum is the perfect material for these fantastic machines.

First off, aluminum is incredibly lightweight, which is essential for satellites. By shedding even a single pound, we can save significant fuel during launch and maneuvering. This means that the right aluminum alloy can grant a satellite the ability to carry more equipment or travel even farther distances.

But don’t let its lightness fool you — aluminum extrusions are also powerfully durable. Satellite construction often requires materials capable of withstanding immense pressure and stress during launch and space travel. As a result, certain materials have become a top choice for this purpose.

Finally, another critical feature of aluminum is its natural resistance to radiation. Harmful radiation in space can expose satellites to severe damage, causing havoc on their sensitive components and interior. But with aluminum, we can help protect these delicate machines and ensure they continue to function flawlessly.

So next time you look up at the stars, remember the vital role that aluminum extrusions for satellites play in helping us explore the universe!

Beyond Satellites: A Universe of Applications

Aluminum extrusions are shaped lengths of aluminum formed by forcing molten metal through a die that have become vital in various space and aerospace applications. Their unique combination of lightweight, high strength, corrosion resistance, and malleability makes them ideal for multiple functions beyond satellite components.

Here’s a broader perspective on the diverse uses of aluminum extrusions in space and aerospace:

An ample indoor space in a museum showcases various aerospace exhibits. With its complex mechanical details, the intricate spacecraft module commands immediate attention as it hangs suspended. The module’s exterior displays complex engineering, with visible pipes and metallic structures. Another exhibit, wrapped in golden material, hangs suspended nearby. Structural beams painted in yellow, and blue add an industrial aesthetic to the space. Visitors are present, observing the exhibits and indicating a public setting.

Image Attribution: https://www.freepik.com/free-photo/process-building-space-rocket-engine_7553665.htm#fromView=search&page=1&position=48&uuid=16f26dd9-2914-4366-839e-38719c5e3ab3

  • Structural Components — Wings and Fuselages: Large, high-strength extrusions form the backbone of aircraft wings and fuselages, providing the strength and rigidity to withstand immense forces during flight.
  • Communication and Thermal Management — Radiators and Coolers: Extrusions can be shaped into fins and channels for radiators and coolers, facilitating efficient heat exchange and temperature control.
  • Supplemental Oxygen and Fluid Systems — Valves and Pumps: Specific critical components within fluid and gas systems, like valves and pumps, can be crafted from aluminum due to their strength and machinability

What are some examples of spacecraft that utilize aluminum?

Spacecraft engineering has been at the forefront of technological advancements for decades. These technological marvels have pushed the boundaries of human exploration and discovery, from the International Space Station to the Mars Curiosity Rover. Here, we explore the importance of aluminum extrusions in spacecraft construction and examine spacecraft that rely heavily on this material.

  • International Space Station (ISS) — This iconic structure relies on aluminum extrusions for its modules, trusses, and other components.
  • Mars Curiosity Rover — The engineers constructed this rover‘s frame and many components, exploring the Martian surface, from aluminum.
  • Orion Project NASA’s Orion spacecraft, designed for deep space exploration, utilizes aluminum extensively in its structure and various systems.
  • MBZ-SAT — The first satellite built entirely in the United Arab Emirates, MBZ-SAT also employs aluminum extrusions in its construction.
“Taber was originally recognized for our large shapes, and now we are establishing ourselves as micro extruders. Since we’ve added micro extrusions, friction stir welding, and billet casting, we’re pretty much spanning the gamut of aluminum extrusion competence. We were already well-versed within the defense and aerospace markets, but adding miniature aluminum extrusions to our capabilities has allowed us to become a one-stop shop for our customers in those industries. Our diversification has opened the door wide for our customers.”
– Taber Extrusions

How Taber Extrusions Is Providing Innovative Solutions not only for Satellite Components but also for Aerospace Markets

Taber, with its 50-year legacy, stands at the forefront of the aluminum extrusion industry, delivering a comprehensive array of products and services. Their offerings are designed to meet diverse needs, including those of the aerospace sector, for which they provide specialized aluminum extrusions for satellite components and other applications.

Taber’s commitment to quality and tailored solutions is evident in their adherence to the rigorous specifications of the aerospace industry. They continuously innovate, developing new aluminum technologies to elevate the performance of their extrusions. The sophisticated casthouse at Taber underscores their quest for excellence, crafting superior aluminum alloys for complex aerospace applications.

Some of the examples of Taber Extrusions’ products and services include: 

A large metal extrusion profile with 3 hollow pieces nested inside the other. On either side of the extrusions are the words “MICRO” and “EXTRUSIONS” runs along the length of a 3-inch section of a ruler.

Microextrusions

In the defense and aerospace industries, where precision, complexity, and strict tolerances are non-negotiable, microextrusions play a critical role. These are offered by Taber and feature cross-sections small enough to pass through a 1-millimeter square. The utility of microextrusions extends across a wide range of applications, including communication systems, electronics thermal management, guidance and radar systems, weapons systems, and firearms components, highlighting their versatility and importance in advanced technological environments.

Friction Stir-Welding

Friction stir-welding, a solid-state process known for producing high-strength, defect-free joins, enables the welding of aluminum extrusions in various shapes, sizes, and alloys into complex, seamless assemblies. This technique is particularly beneficial for constructing aircraft and spacecraft components, including wings, fuselages, and panels. Beyond aerospace applications, friction stir-welding is also utilized in creating fuel tanks, heat exchangers, and battery trays, showcasing its versatility across different manufacturing needs.

Billet Casting

Taber specializes in manufacturing aluminum billets for aerospace, marine, and other specialized sectors, leveraging state-of-the-art systems and the expertise of seasoned metallurgists and research engineers. The casting operations at Taber are not only ISO 9001:2008 certified but also equipped to handle a variety of billet sizes, including diameters of 7”, 8”, 9”, 11″, 16″, 20”, and 10 x 28, predominantly in the 6xxx series aluminum alloys.

If high-quality aluminum extrusions for satellite and aerospace components are what you need, look no further than Taber. As a premiere aluminum extrusions company in the U.S., Taber is well-equipped to meet the exacting standards your project demands.

About Taber Extrusions

Taber Extrusions is an American aluminum extrusion company and your ideal partner for full-service aluminum extrusions. Their top priority is to deliver nothing short of the best products and services to their esteemed customers. Providing quality products and services is essential to their philosophy of adding value. Their dedication to this principle is the foundation of their business.

Taber takes pride in its certifications, which include ISO 9001:2008, AS 9100C, and ABS Quality Assurance Program certificate no. 11-MMPQA-652. ABS Mill approves them to produce extruded aluminum alloy products for marine applications such as 5083H111, 5086H111, 5454H111, 5456H111, 6061T6, and 6082T6, with a maximum diameter of 1.0 inch, including the casting process. Choose Taber Extrusions for quality products and services that exceed your expectations… the sky’s the limit.

 

If you have any queries, please visit https://www.taberextrusions.com or call Taber at 1-888-984-3795.

28 03, 2024

Hard Alloy Aluminum Extrusion Manufacturing: The Technology of Hard Metals

2024-09-16T13:34:24+00:00March 28th, 2024|

Banner featuring “Hard Alloy Aluminum Extrusion Manufacturing: The Technology of Hard Metals” with industrial imagery and the Taber Extrusions logo.

Aluminum’s versatility and prevalence have made it a staple in various industries globally. Its numerous benefits position it as a favored material choice. Join us as we delve into hard alloy aluminum extrusion manufacturing — a cutting-edge method that enhances aluminum’s mechanical properties and expands its range of applications.

Recognizing aluminum

Despite being plentiful in the Earth’s crust, aluminum is rarely found in its pure form. Various forms of aluminum and its alloys are esteemed for their high strength-to-weight ratio, low density, corrosion resistance, and durability. Aluminum’s low density makes it an ideal lightweight alternative to steel, being 2.5 times less dense and favorable for applications needing portability.

Many aluminum alloys are malleable and ductile, making them effortless to machine and form. They possess excellent electrical and thermal conductivity while lacking magnetic and sparking properties. Recycling aluminum is possible due to its low re-melting temperature, which requires only 5% of the energy used in primary metal production. It also maintains its properties after multiple recycling cycles, up to 75%, highlighting its sustainability. 

What are aluminum grades?

Aluminum alloys are created by blending pure aluminum with various alloying elements to modify their mechanical properties, corrosion resistance, formability, and machinability. The Aluminum Association classifies and maintains the different grades of aluminum based on their composition and how they respond to mechanical and thermal treatment.

Wrought and cast are the two categories of aluminum alloys. Mechanical processes are employed like forging, bending, and rolling to shape wrought aluminum alloys. In contrast, cast aluminum alloys are formed by melting and pouring into molds to create specific shapes. Both types of aluminum alloys have their unique properties and applications. Wrought aluminum is worked in solid form, while cast aluminum is melted and poured into a mold.

Let’s dive deeper into wrought aluminum!

Wrought aluminum  possesses remarkable strength, and people can mold it into various shapes. The grade’s composition is achieved by melting aluminum ingots with a measured quantity of alloying metal. Rolling, forging, or extruding transforms the melted aluminum alloy into billets or slabs. Heat treatment is applied further to enhance the natural properties of the aluminum alloy.

Each wrought aluminum grade is assigned a unique four-digit number code:

  • To modify pure aluminum, you add the primary alloying element, represented by the first digit. The primary alloying element impacts the grade’s properties in a sequence.
  • The second digit denotes the alloy modification and requires specific documentation using IADS. If the number assigned is zero, the alloy is either unmodified or in its original state.
  • The third and fourth digits are random numbers in the sequence assigned to a specific alloy. For the 1000 series, these digits represent the alloy’s purity.

We can divide aluminum grades into several categories. The purest form of aluminum with the lowest yield and tensile strength belongs to the 1000 series. On the other hand, the 7000 series comprises alloys of magnesium, zinc, and copper and has the highest tensile and yield strength.

Soft Alloys

A collage of various modes of transport and infrastructure: the top left shows a large cruise ship on the water, top right features the Golden Gate Bridge illuminated at night, the bottom left displays high-voltage power lines against a dusky sky, and the bottom right depicts a space shuttle on its launch pad during nighttime.

1000 Series

Aluminum is a metal that can be very pure, with a grade of 99% or higher. There are different types of aluminum alloys, and one of them is called the 1xxx series. These alloys are good at resisting damage from rust and can carry heat and electricity well. Electric transformers and power grids often utilize them.

3000 Series

3xxx series aluminum alloys are a type of metal often used for various purposes because they have a good balance of strength and flexibility. Manufacturers add manganese to create these alloys, granting them unique properties.

6000 Series

The 6xxx series of aluminum alloys is a versatile and robust material with many construction and architectural uses. They can be heated and welded to fit different shapes and designs and are known for their ability to resist rust and wear over time. Perfect for many construction and architectural designs.

Hard Alloys

2000 Series

The material becomes very strong and tough when copper is mixed with aluminum to create 2xxx series aluminum alloys. Another exciting thing about this alloy is its strength can increase even more by applying heat treatment.

5000 Series

The 5xxx series is a type of material that is made stronger by adding magnesium to it. It can be welded easily and is resistant to rusting, especially in places with a lot of saltwater, like the ocean. People often use it to construct boats, shipping containers, and other structures exposed to salty and wet environments.

7000 Series

Various sectors, such as aerospace, utilize aluminum alloys for their operations. One type of alloy, the 7xxx series, is solid and can withstand harsh weather conditions. This alloy adds elements like zinc, magnesium, copper, and chromium.

The best aluminum extruder can offer high-quality aluminum extrusions that meet specific requirements.

Aluminum casthouse technology has come a long way, and choosing an extruder that uses the latest technology to produce top-quality aluminum extrusions is essential. To get the most out of this versatile material, you must rely on a reputable American aluminum extrusion company that is an expert in hard alloy aluminum extrusion manufacturing like Taber Extrusions.

With their state-of-the-art extrusion process, Taber can create custom aluminum shapes that meet their customers’ specifications. This high level of precision guarantees the result’s optimal performance and superior quality. Whether you need wrought aluminum for structural applications or intricate parts, leading hard alloy aluminum extrusion manufacturer, Taber, has the expertise and technology to deliver top-notch products consistently.

Comprehensive extrusion services by Taber

Taber offers a wide range of extrusion capabilities in all standard alloy series. They can extrude 2000, 5000, 6000, and 7000 series, and if you need something different, ask! They’ll even consider extruding in 1000 and 3000-series alloys upon request. Also, Taber uses recycled and prime aluminum to cast their extrusion ingots to meet the highest quality specifications. The ingots come in a range of diameters from 8” to 20” and rectangular sizes, too!

Taber offers various customized processing services to meet its clients’ needs. From billet casting at its Gulfport, MS plant to solution heat treatment, stretcher/detwister, cut-to-length, custom packaging, fabrication, statistical process control, quality assurance, and artificial aging ovens, it has the equipment and expertise to deliver high-quality and customized aluminum extrusion products.

A detailed comparison chart shows the manufacturing limits and comparative characteristics of different materials, their typical applications, extrusion press specifications, and auxiliary equipment & services.

Precision engineering and quality assurance

A leading extrusion company needs a leading team of experts as well. Taber has a team of engineers who can assist with the extrusion design using SolidWorks (CAD Design) and CAD Software (Auto CAD). It can ensure that the extrusions meet the tolerances in ASTM, AA, ANSI, DIN, or EN standards.

They are also certified and approved by several international and industry standards, such as ISO 9001:2008, AS 9100C, EN/JISQ 9100:2009, BABA, and ABS. Taber has the ABS Quality Assurance Program Certification #ALML 1320275 and the ABS approval to produce extruded aluminum alloy products for marine applications, such as 5083 H111, 5086 H111, 6061 T6, and 6082 T6, with a maximum thickness/diameter of 130 mm. Various sectors widely use Taber’s products, including aerospace, defense, transportation, energy, and industrial.

Leading the way in aluminum extrusion with state-of-the-art technology and commitment to quality

Taber stands out as a premiere provider of aluminum extrusion products in the United States, offering exceptional service and innovative solutions that meet the unique needs and expectations of customers while ensuring cost-effectiveness and quality. With vast experience, advanced equipment, and a commitment to excellence, they guarantee customer satisfaction and are the ideal partner for any aluminum project, regardless of size.

So, if you want to take your business to the next level, get a quote now with Taber, a premier hard alloy aluminum extrusion manufacturer. Their team of experts will work with you every step of the way to ensure your success. Don’t wait any longer; contact Taber today to experience the best aluminum extrusion products and services!

More about Taber Extrusions

Taber is a company that strongly believes in shaping customers’ dreams. They provide a comprehensive range of aluminum extrusion capabilities and value-added services, which enable them to become a complete partner throughout the entire process, from the design stage to the delivery of the final product.

Since its establishment in 1973, Taber has been committed to earning a top reputation in the industry by working closely with its customers, promoting innovation, and collaborating to find solutions to any challenges. Over the past four decades, they have become well-known for their highest standards of quality and responsiveness, and they are proud to hold the title of having the most extensive capabilities in the aluminum extrusion industry.

If you’d like to explore more of Taber Extrusion’s aluminum extrusion blogs, visit taberextrusions.com and follow them on social media so you can receive new blog alerts!

Go to Top