6 03, 2025

The Backbone of Heavy Industry: Aluminum Extrusion

2025-06-16T14:04:52+00:00March 6th, 2025|

A promotional graphic features several brightly colored excavator arms against a clear blue sky, with the text “The Backbone of Heavy Industry: Aluminum Extrusion” prominently displayed. The logo for “TABER” is also included below the text.

Key Takeaways:

• Heavy industry aluminum extrusion is essential for construction, transportation, energy, and manufacturing, offering durability, lightweight strength, and design flexibility.

• Challenges like rising costs, global competition, and supply chain disruptions can be mitigated by partnering with an experienced aluminum extrusion manufacturer.

• Taber Extrusions provides cutting-edge CNC machining, large press capabilities, and sustainable manufacturing solutions, ensuring high-quality, customized aluminum extrusion for heavy industry.

Heavy industry is the foundation of modern economies, encompassing sectors such as construction, energy, transportation, and manufacturing. The materials and processes powering this sector must meet stringent demands for strength, versatility, and sustainability. Among these, heavy industry aluminum extrusion has emerged as an indispensable technology.

Through precision CNC machining and advanced large press aluminum extrusion techniques, manufacturers produce structural components that drive innovation across infrastructure, transportation, and energy sectors. In infrastructure, aluminum extrusions support bridges, skyscrapers, and large-scale construction projects. In transportation, they enhance efficiency and durability in automotive, rail, and aerospace applications. The energy sector relies on aluminum extrusion profiles for solar panel frames, wind turbines, and power distribution systems.

The Markets Driving Heavy Industry

Heavy industry comprises a variety of markets, each with unique demands and opportunities. Major sectors include:

Construction and infrastructure:

This sector relies on durable materials for roads, bridges, tunnels, and high-rise buildings. Heavy industry aluminum extrusion is essential for lightweight, corrosion-resistant components that ensure long-term durability. Additionally, the rise of modular construction has increased demand for prefabricated aluminum parts, reducing construction time and material waste.

A collage featuring four scenes: a prefabricated building being assembled, a close-up of a bridge’s underside, a vast field of solar panels, and an electric car charging at a station. These elements highlight advancements in construction, infrastructure, renewable energy, and electric vehicles, which are relevant to heavy industry aluminum extrusion.

Transportation:

The transportation sector encompasses the automotive, aerospace, shipping, and rail industries. Aluminum extrusion is critical for reducing vehicle weight, improving fuel efficiency, and enhancing performance in transportation. For instance, businesses use aluminum profiles in electric vehicle battery enclosures, train car frames, and airplane fuselages.

Energy:

The renewable energy sector increasingly depends on heavy industry aluminum extrusion to manufacture critical components for solar, wind, and energy transmission systems. Applications include:

  • Solar panel frames: providing structural support and weather resistance
  • Wind turbine nacelles and support structures: ensuring strength and efficiency
  • Energy transmission components: utilizing aluminum’s lightweight conductivity for efficient power distribution

Manufacturing and machinery:

Heavy equipment for construction and mining depends on robust aluminum extrusions. Large press capabilities allow for the creation of massive and complex profiles tailored to machinery needs, improving both performance and durability.

Challenges Facing Heavy Industry

Despite its importance, heavy industry is not without its difficulties.

  • Rising costs: Energy prices, labor shortages, and material costs are squeezing profit margins. Heavy industry aluminum extrusion offers a cost-effective solution due to its efficiency and recyclability.
  • Sustainability demands: The push for greener practices means industries must reduce carbon footprints. Aluminum’s high recyclability makes it a preferred choice for sustainable manufacturing.
  • Global competition: Maintaining competitiveness requires constant innovation. Companies that adopt advanced technologies like CNC machining and state-of-the-art extrusion presses stay ahead by delivering higher-quality products.
  • Supply chain disruptions: Global events can affect material availability and lead times. Partnering with a trusted heavy industry aluminum extrusion manufacturer ensures reliable supply chains and consistent production.

Emerging Markets and Growth Projections

Several heavy industry markets will experience significant growth in the coming years.

A graphic that projects the global market size for construction equipment, estimating growth from USD 161.45 billion in 2024 to USD 271.30 billion by 2032, with a 6.7% CAGR. This is crucial for companies in the heavy industry of aluminum extrusion to understand market trends and opportunities.

These projections indicate robust growth driven by urbanization, infrastructure development, and technological advancements.

Innovations and Advantages Supporting Heavy Industry

Heavy industry aluminum extrusion continues to evolve, offering solutions that address the sector’s biggest challenges.

  • Strength-to-weight ratio: Aluminum provides excellent structural strength while being significantly lighter than steel, reducing transportation costs and improving efficiency.
  • Design flexibility: The aluminum extrusion process allows for intricate shapes and complex geometries, creating tailored solutions for diverse applications.
  • Durability and corrosion resistance: Aluminum’s natural rust resistance makes it ideal for outdoor and high-stress environments.
  • Precision manufacturing: Advanced techniques ensure tight tolerances and consistent quality, essential for aerospace and automotive applications.
  • Large press capabilities: Innovations in large press aluminum extrusion allow for oversized components, meeting the needs of industries like energy, infrastructure, and transportation.
  • Sustainability: Aluminum is 100% recyclable without losing its properties, making it a cornerstone of the circular economy.

Partner with a Leading Aluminum Extrusion Manufacturer

A worker operates a large VF-12 CNC machine in a heavy industry aluminum extrusion facility. The VF-12 logo is visible on the machine, indicating its model.To fully leverage the benefits of heavy industry aluminum extrusion, businesses must collaborate with a trusted, high-quality manufacturer.

Taber Extrusions, a premier aluminum extrusion manufacturer in the United States, is equipped with state-of-the-art large presses, precision CNC machining, and a strong commitment to sustainability. Our advanced capabilities ensure that clients receive durable, efficient, and customized aluminum extrusion solutions that meet the rigorous demands of heavy industry.

Unlock the Potential of Heavy Industry Aluminum Extrusion

Learn more about the impact of aluminum extrusion on heavy industry. Download our detailed guide to extrusion innovation and applications.

💡 Gain insights into:

  • Cutting-edge aluminum extrusion technologies
  • Industry-specific applications for construction, transportation, and energy
  • The latest trends driving heavy industry advancements

Ready to elevate your projects with top-tier aluminum extrusion solutions?

Fill out the form below or call us today at (800) 563-6853, and see how our capabilities can drive your success.

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    6 01, 2025

    Not Just a New Year’s Resolution: Aluminum Extrusion Sustainability

    2025-06-16T14:08:22+00:00January 6th, 2025|

    Solar panels amongst greenery and trees with a city scape background. Taber’s logo and white text “Not Just a New Year’s Resolution: Aluminum Extrusion Sustainability” overlays the image.

    Is the concept of aluminum extrusion sustainability more than just a popular industry term? With the increasing emphasis on sustainability in global markets, the significance of aluminum extrusion in promoting sustainable practices has never been greater. This extends beyond just meeting environmental standards. It involves transforming how products are made, how resources are managed, and how industries adapt to the evolving demands for greener solutions. From automotive to renewable energy, construction, and more, aluminum extrusion offers a pathway to reducing carbon footprints and advancing sustainable development.

    This blog explores how aluminum extrusion contributes to sustainability. Utilizing aluminum reduces material usage, enhances energy efficiency, and creates recyclable products. Additionally, we will discuss the impact of supply chain management, including insights from a case study on sustainable practices from Taber Extrusions’ sister company, National Material Company (NMC). These factors illustrate how a holistic approach to aluminum extrusion can lead to a more sustainable future.

    Aluminum Extrusion: A Sustainable Material Solution

    Aluminum extrusion offers unique advantages when it comes to sustainability. The process of shaping aluminum alloy into profiles allows for the development of lightweight yet strong components. This makes it ideal for industries aiming to reduce material usage without sacrificing performance. This material solution is especially beneficial in applications requiring high-strength and durable products, such as aluminum for infrastructure, automotive, and renewable energy sectors.

    Industry-Wide Sustainability Initiatives

    The aluminum extrusion industry, led by organizations such as the Aluminum Extruders Council (AEC), actively promotes sustainability initiatives. These include energy-efficient production practices, widespread use of recycled materials, and industry-wide sustainability reporting through the Environmental Product Declaration (EPD). By participating in these programs, companies ensure that sustainability efforts extend beyond individual manufacturers and set industry standards for sustainable development.

    • Automotive Applications: Lightweighting for Efficiency

    In the automotive industry, aluminum extrusions have become indispensable for vehicle light-weighting initiatives to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. Replacing traditional steel components with aluminum extrusion profiles significantly reduces weight and enhances overall vehicle performance. For instance, automotive aluminum is utilized in structural components like crash management systems, suspension parts, and battery housings for electric vehicles. This shift supports sustainability efforts and meets the stringent requirements of the advanced high-strength steel (AHSS) standards. Therefore, vehicles are ensured to maintain high safety and quality benchmarks.

    • Aluminum in Renewable Energy

    The development of sustainable products in the renewable energy sector heavily depends on aluminum extrusion. Solar panel frames, wind turbine components, and electric vehicle charging stations are examples of extruded aluminum being used to provide strength, resistance to corrosion, and a lower environmental footprint. By integrating aluminum into these applications, energy consumption during manufacturing and installation is significantly reduced. The entire process is then more eco-friendly. Moreover, aluminum’s recyclability is critical in minimizing waste and supporting a circular economy.

    • Expanding the Reach: Industries Served by Aluminum Extrusion

    Beyond automotive and renewable energy, aluminum extrusions are crucial in aerospace, defense, and marine engineering industries. For example, aluminum’s lightweight and high-strength properties in aerospace applications contribute to improved fuel efficiency and load capacity. In the defense sector, extruded aluminum is used in protective structures and components for military vehicles to ensure high performance and durability. Also, the marine industry utilizes aluminum for shipbuilding, where its corrosion resistance enhances longevity in harsh environments.

    Recyclability and the Circular Economy

    Aluminum is inherently sustainable due to its recyclability. Approximately 75% of all aluminum produced is still in use, showcasing its long-lasting value and efficiency. Recycling aluminum requires just 5% of the energy needed for primary production, which dramatically lowers the carbon footprint. This closed-loop approach ensures that the environmental benefits of aluminum extrusion are maximized across industries. Incorporating recycled content into the extrusion process further reduces the environmental impact and makes aluminum a key player in the global shift towards a circular economy.

    Research published in environmental science journals has shown that recycling aluminum results in significantly lower energy consumption than other metals, such as steel or copper. One study suggests that the process of recycling aluminum consumes just 5% of the energy needed for initial manufacturing. Thereby, this backs up broader initiatives to decrease industrial greenhouse gas emissions and preserve natural resources.

    The Role of Responsible Sourcing and Supply Chain Management

    Aluminum extrusion in sustainability extends to responsible sourcing practices and efficient supply chain management. Companies that prioritize sourcing ethically produced aluminum contribute to the broader industry initiative of transparent and accountable supply chains. This approach aligns with AEC’s EPD, which establishes uniform sustainability metrics across the industry and enables companies to achieve higher sustainability standards.

    Case Study: National Material Company (NMC) and Supply Chain Transparency

    A critical aspect of achieving sustainable aluminum extrusion is optimizing the supply chain to reduce waste and emissions. As detailed in a case study involving NMC, the integration of transparent supply chain practices was essential for addressing a customer’s request for a comprehensive global steel and aluminum parts supply chain footprint. The complexity of this task required NMC to analyze both direct and indirect emissions, as well as logistical processes. The company employed systematic approaches following GHG Protocol standards to accurately calculate emissions intensity based on the volume of metals processed.

    NMC’s experience highlights the importance of transparency in metal procurement, logistics, and processing to minimize embedded emissions. By collaborating with partners like Greenway Steel, NMC successfully demonstrates how thorough supply chain transparency can facilitate more efficient decarbonization efforts, ultimately paving the way for future sustainability targets in the metals industry.

    Partner with Taber Extrusions for Your Aluminum Extrusion Sustainability

    Taber Extrusions is a leader in the aluminum extrusion industry known for its commitment to sustainable manufacturing and product innovation. It serves industries including automotive, infrastructure, defense, and renewable energy with tailored aluminum extrusion solutions that adhere to the highest industry standards and focus on quality and environmental accountability. Offering vertically integrated services that encompass everything from billet casting to advanced machining, Taber’s facilities are equipped to handle the most demanding requirements.

    A technician wearing a hard hat, face shield, and protective gear, operating a liquid aluminum refining system (LARS).

    The company’s comprehensive approach to aluminum sustainability ensures that its processes meet and exceed regulatory standards. By continually seeking ways to enhance resource efficiency and reduce environmental impacts, Taber reinforces its position as a trusted partner for businesses looking to adopt more sustainable practices. Their dedication to sustainability extends to innovative design solutions and collaboration across industries to drive the next generation of green technology.

    Contact Taber today to learn how their solutions can help achieve your company’s aluminum extrusion sustainability objectives.

    About Aluminum Extrusion Sustainability Leader—Taber Extrusions

    Since 1973, Taber Extrusions has been a leader in the aluminum extrusion industry, renowned for innovation, quality, and exceptional service. As the only company in North America with a rectangular container, Taber can produce super-wide shapes and complex multi-void hollows, setting it apart in the market.

    Serving diverse industries such as aerospace, defense, infrastructure, and renewable energy, Taber combines technical expertise with a commitment to environmental responsibility. Headquartered in Russellville, Arkansas, with a regional sales office in Gulfport, Mississippi, Taber is dedicated to advancing aluminum extrusion sustainability and efficiency.

    Taber offers customized solutions that adhere to the highest industry standards, emphasizing quality and environmental stewardship. Their vertically integrated services—from billet casting to advanced machining—ensure superior products for any project.

    Partner with Taber Extrusions to create innovative and sustainable solutions for your next project.

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    7 10, 2024

    How Taber Does That: Aluminum Extrusion Innovation and Technology

    2024-10-30T20:57:37+00:00October 7th, 2024|

    Taber Extrusions logo below the title of the article showcasing aluminum extrusion innovation and technology with stacked aluminum billets in the background.

    Aluminum extrusion innovation and technology are driving advancements in industries like aerospace, defense, and infrastructure. Taber Extrusions leads the way, using cutting-edge machinery like the Haas VF12 CNC and friction stir welding to produce high-quality extrusion billets, micro-extrusions, and custom profiles.

    With a commitment to sustainability and efficiency, Taber continues to innovate, offering superior aluminum solutions. This blog highlights their technological journey, including the upcoming SMS Press set for 2026.

    Timeline of Technological Advancements

    Taber Extrusions has achieved significant technological milestones, establishing itself as a leader in the aluminum extrusion industry. Taber’s aluminum extrusion innovation and technology started on its founding in 1973, Taber has consistently pushed the boundaries of innovation, expanding its capabilities with strategic facility acquisitions, advanced machinery, and cutting-edge processes. This timeline highlights key progressions, underscoring Taber’s commitment to excellence and continuous improvement.

    1995: Gulfport facility expansion

    Taber acquires an extrusion facility in Gulfport, Mississippi, providing easy access to ports and industrial scraps. This facility includes two additional presses and a cast house, increasing their in-house capabilities to cast, extrude, and fabricate products.

    Taber Extrusions groundbreaking ceremony favoring “Taber branded” shovels at the Russellville facility.

    2014: Additional fabrication capabilities in Russellville

    The Russellville facility expands to include comprehensive fabrication capabilities, featuring the B&O B-800 series, Marvel band saws, machining centers, and a Zeiss coordinate measuring machine for precision and quality control. Taber also installs the 8600-ton extrusion press, significantly enhancing their ability to produce extensive, complex aluminum profiles.

    2017: Increased billet capacity

    Taber adds 7-inch billet molds to their existing 9”, 11”, 16”, and 20” diameter molds, increasing billet capacity by over 30% and enhancing their ability to serve defense, marine, and specialized industries.

    Taber Extrusions’ Gulfport casting table had to be engineered to fit the existing circular casting pit.

    2018: Ultra-precision extrusions

    In 2018, Taber successfully relocated and initiated its micro-extrusion press lines. This expansion significantly broadened their supply options, offering extrusion solutions, programs, and services. Taber’s latest ultra-precision extrusion manufacturing lines accommodate profiles with a circle size of 3 inches or less and a weight per foot of 1 lb. or less.

    Unlike traditional extrusion presses, these micro-extrusion presses can create profiles with a remarkable wall thickness of 0.010 inches and tolerances as tight as +/- 0.001 inches. Designers and engineers now have the flexibility to develop previously impossible profiles to extrude using conventional presses.

    2019: Friction stir welding (FSW)

    Taber integrates friction stir welding technology at their expanded Russellville facility, producing superb welds with minimal distortion. This technique is essential for aerospace, rail, automotive, shipbuilding, transportation, and marine industries.

    A large industrial CNC milling machine with grey hues featuring a control panel on the right side.

    2021: Haas VF12 CNC machine

    The addition of the Haas VF12 CNC machine significantly boosts Taber Extrusions’ precision machining capabilities. This advanced equipment allows for producing complex aluminum parts with stringent specifications, enhancing their ability to meet diverse and demanding project requirements.

    The Haas VF12 CNC machine features a large working area and high-speed capabilities, making it ideal for machining intricate components with exceptional accuracy and efficiency. This investment underscores Taber’s commitment to providing cutting-edge solutions and maintaining the highest quality standards in their manufacturing processes.

    Upcoming SMS press installation

    Taber Extrusions plans to commission North America’s largest direct press in 2026 — a 1100-ton press equipped with a 16-inch container. Designed specifically for the aerospace industry, this state-of-the-art installation promises advanced heat solutions and the ability to handle hard and soft alloys. Safety features, precise alignment mechanisms, and stringent quality controls ensure superior performance. As Taber continues to shape the future of aluminum extrusion, this investment underscores their commitment to innovation and excellence.

    The 10,000 UST front load direct press incorporates reliability enhancements such as an IAS induction heater for billet taper and a comprehensive Log Wash System. Vertical log storage increases capacity, while the TERS System optimizes energy efficiency, saving 6-8% in consumption. Downstream enhancements include a high-performance multi-spray zone system, quench and cooling simulation, and in-line solution heat treatment meeting rigorous specifications. Taber Extrusions is an industry leader ready to deliver world-class products and services to clients through adjustable racks and an AGV system.

    Technologies and Innovations

    Aluminum billets at Taber Extrusions’ Gulfport, Mississippi facility - showcasing their “made in America” in-house aluminum billet capabilities.Taber’s aluminum cast house ensures premium extrusion billet production, while their diverse alloy offerings (1xxx-7xxx series) cater to industries like aerospace, defense, and infrastructure. Advanced machinery like the Haas VF12 CNC and friction stir welding (FSW) technology enhance precision and reliability. The upcoming SMS Press in 2026 will further advance large and complex profile production.

    Taber’s environmental initiatives reduce energy consumption and costs, backed by ISO 9001:2015 and Nadcap certifications.

    Industry Impact

    Taber’s advanced technologies, such as the SMS Press and friction stir welding, support the production of critical components for aerospace, defense, and infrastructure. Their high-quality aluminum alloys ensure reliability and performance in aerospace applications, while their robust, durable solutions are essential for military projects. In infrastructure, Taber’s maintenance-free aluminum profiles enhance the longevity and sustainability of construction and architectural projects.

    Beyond these sectors, Taber has evolved into a multifaceted aluminum extrusion company, serving industries like automotive, marine, and sporting goods. Their comprehensive services include custom extrusion, fabrication, heat treatment, and quality assurance, meeting a wide range of client needs.

    Partner with Taber Extrusions

    Transform your business by partnering with Taber Extrusions, the industry leader in aluminum extrusion innovation and technology. Taber positions itself to deliver reliable, high-quality aluminum extrusion solutions tailored to your needs, leveraging their comprehensive approach and state-of-the-art capabilities. Elevate your projects with precision-engineered profiles, sustainable practices, and unmatched expertise.

    About Taber Extrusions

    Taber Extrusions, located in Russellville, AR, and Gulfport, MS, is highly regarded as a provider of aluminum extrusions to various industries. Their commitment to excellence is evident through advanced processes and state-of-the-art machinery. Beyond military applications, Taber serves markets such as aerospace, automotive, marine, infrastructure, and sporting goods. With ISO 9001 and AS 9100 certifications ensuring quality, Taber is a reliable partner for customers seeking extruded aluminum components and value-added machining services in North America.

    Contact Taber Extrusions today and experience the difference of working with a trusted partner committed to excellence and innovation in every aspect of aluminum extrusion.

    15 03, 2023

    The Boeing 747: Aluminum Extrusion Leader Taber Recognizes the End of an Era

    2023-04-04T19:46:46+00:00March 15th, 2023|

    A woman in a white dress stands on the beach gazing into the summer sky at an airplane ascending into the clouds.

    On the 8th of September 2022, the world said its goodbyes to one of its beloved queens, Elizabeth II. She was the queen of the longest-reigning British monarch in the United Kingdom and the other Commonwealth realms. Her majesty graciously passed on at Balmoral Castle, Scotland at 96 years old. Today, we will again bid farewell to a queen that connected our world through flight and helped transform the aerospace industry altogether, the Boeing 747.

    The last Boeing 747 left the company’s widebody factory in advance of its delivery to Atlas Air in early 2023.

    Image Source & Corresponding Article: https://theaviationgeekclub.com/end-of-an-era-final-boeing-747-airplane-leaves-the-companys-everett-factory/

    Known as the “Queen of the skies”, the Boeing 747’s final airplane – the 747-8 Freighter, rolled out its home in Everett, Washington. It will be delivered to Atlas Air for cargo delivery early this year.

    The 747 ushered in more affordable long-haul travel by increasing capacity and lowering ticket costs. Designed from the beginning to carry both passengers and cargo, it was always intended to have dual roles. It was known as the first plane to have two aisles, and overhead bins.

    “For more than half a century, tens of thousands of dedicated Boeing employees have designed and built this magnificent airplane that has truly changed the world. We are proud that this plane will continue to fly across the globe for years to come,” said Kim Smith, Boeing Vice President and general manager of the 747 and 767 Programs.

    The image shows three colored photos. On the top half of the image is a photo of Atlas Air’s cargo plane with the nose of the plane open showing cargo. On the lower right is a line drawing of the world’s continents in white line on a blackboard background with a hand holding a miniature airplane. On the left is a photo of the last Boeing 747-8 being rolled out of a hangar for delivery to Atlas Air Cargo.

    A Brief History of the Boeing 747

    At the beginning of the “Jet Age” in the 50s, Boeing introduced the 707 – America’s first jet airliner. Compared to its predecessors (piston engines), jet engines were safer, cheaper, and faster. The  demand for flying soon quadrupled through the years (1955-1972). Boeing and Pan Am took the opportunity to develop the 747s that made flying faster, accessible, and financially possible to the people.

    Pan Am wanted to accommodate more passengers. By having a plane 2 ½ size bigger than the 707, the seat costs could be reduced by 30%. What was originally planned by Pan Am was to create a double-decker airplane, but instead, Boeing made the 747s wider. To meet the challenges of building a wider airplane, Boeing went with the four-engined jet aircraft. These were initially powered by Pratt & Whitney JT9D turbofan engines.

    Joe Sutter, known as the father of the 747, led the design team. They along with other Boeing employees, were nicknamed the Incredibles for building the 747 in just 29 months.

    Because the design was so big, Boeing had to build a plant around it during its construction in Everett, Washington. Today, that building is the biggest in the world by volume (13,300,000 Million cubic meters equivalent to more than 5,300 Olympic-sized swimming pools) and where the company builds its other wide-body aircraft.

    The image shows two colored photos. On the left is a fleet of passenger airplanes parked on an airport runway. On the right is a sunset view of a Lufthansa airplane parked on an airport runway.

    The End of an Era of the Boeing 747

    A favorite among pilots, this airplane flies and lands beautifully. In agreement is Captain Lyn Rippelmeyer, the first woman to pilot the 747. She was also the first woman to captain a transatlantic flight 747.

    Designed for long-haul flights, the 747 made international travel more accessible and affordable. Consequently, it was sought after by most airline companies when it was first introduced. Its elegance and top-notch performance gave the airlines a view that the 747 is legitimized them.

    The ending of the 747 comes at a time when the aviation industry is looking to transform itself. Aligning with more fuel-efficient, environmentally friendly technologies is the new sentiment. Becoming green and sustainable is a path that most companies and industries aim for to build a better future.

    Regardless, this doesn’t mean that we have seen the last days of the “queen of the skies.” She will continue to fly for decades-long according to Boeing. “They’re sending the queen out very fittingly” according to Kim Smith, Boeing Vice President, and general manager of the 747 and 767 Programs.

    Currently, there are 396 Boeing 747s still in service today. Among them, 311 are freight, 44 of them are passenger planed, and 41 are for VIP or private service. Six airlines still operate the 747s, with Lufthansa being the largest at 25 in its fleet.

    In the beginning, many people said that the 747 would not fly– both literally and financially. But Boeing took a huge risk and like Taber, became one of the pioneers that have shaped our world today.

    How Taber helped shaped the Aerospace industry

    Aluminum has been key to how man developed flight due to its rich properties and capabilities. The Wright brothers used aluminum for their first airplane in 1903. It had a four-cylinder, 12-horse-power engine modified with a 30-pound aluminum block to reduce its weight.

    And since then, various aluminum alloys were used in aerospace engineering and have subsequently increased throughout the years.

    Taber offers a full range of aluminum alloys including hard, soft, marine, and armor grade. This is a unique capability in the industry. Inside Taber Extrusion’s new state-of-the-art casthouse, aluminum billets are cast and extruded into a wide range of shapes and sizes.

    Taber’s capabilities allow the company to serve several industries, including aerospace and firearms. The hard alloys that are created are ideal for these industries due to their high strength and corrosion resistance.

    Components of Aerospace Vehicles including the Boeing 747

    We have worked with most of the major aerospace manufacturers in the United States. Our extruded shapes are used for important components of aerospace vehicles:

    • Structural Flight Critical Components
    • Interior aircraft systems
    • Supplemental oxygen systems
    • Electrical/Communication Systems
    • Passenger Comfort Systems
    • Coolant radiators
    • Oil coolers
    • Intercoolers
    • AC condensers
    • Passenger service systems
    • Other fluid/gas systems

    Producing profiles for the Aerospace and Defense industries is a foundational capability at Taber. “From the inception, Taber’s Russellville, AR facility has produced profiles for the commercial aircraft manufacturers.” Says Jason Weber, VP of Sales and Marketing at Taber Extrusions, “While Taber is sad to see the new aircraft builds of the 747 end, we’re excited for the future of the next generations of airframes and the sustainment of the existing fleet.”

    Since 1973, Taber Extrusions has been known as the industry leader in providing some of the widest, heaviest, and most complex shapes to a variety of industries. This includes aerospace, military, shipbuilding, automotive, sporting goods, architectural, and distribution markets. Taber supplies intermediate to heavy press structural extrusions for various Boeing Commercial airplanes including 747, 767, 777, & 787 airframes.  The company has manufactured aircraft and aerospace extrusions since 1973, servicing the Commercial, Military, and General Aviation markets.

    A collage of triangles in various shades of blue, overlying an image of a commercial airplane and the words “AEROSPACE” atop Taber’s gold inverted triangle official logo.

    More About Taber Extrusions

    Founded in 1973, Taber Extrusions originally pioneered a process for extruding rectangular billet. This enables the company to extrude solid profiles up to 31 inches wide or hollows up to 29 inches. Taber expanded with the purchase of an extrusion facility in Gulfport, MS, in 1995. It houses a new state-of-the-art cast house and two additional presses. In addition, Taber expanded its microextrusion capabilities, and  the fabrication area has been expanded multiple times.

    Taber continues to extrude billet in a wide range of alloys and sizes and has diversified its markets beyond the military since its inception to include aerospace, automotive, marine, infrastructure, and sporting goods, among many others. For these markets, the company supplies cast and extruded products in a variety of soft and hard alloys.

    Today, Taber Extrusions has completed the addition of in-house friction stir welding capabilities and carries on their offering of extruded aluminum components, value-added machining services, and raw material supply to the North American market – making them a vertically integrated supplier of FSW panels and assemblies never before seen in North America.

    Follow Aluminum Extrusion Experts Taber Extrusions

    YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@TaberExtrusions

    LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/8843183/

    FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/taberextrusions/

    TWITTER: https://twitter.com/taberextrusions

    Interested in becoming a part of the Taber Team?  Submit your resume to careers@taberextrusions.com.

    Become a customer today! Visit us or request a quote: https://taberextrusions.com or call us at (888) 985-5319.

    30 05, 2017

    Taber Aluminum Extrusions: Behind The Brand

    2017-05-30T16:35:18+00:00May 30th, 2017|

    What is Taber Extrusions? We’re an manufacturing company that specializes in aluminum extrusions. Our four decades of experience make Taber the perfect full service partner, and our wide range of full service machining and available aluminum alloys means we’re fit for any job.
    What do we do? Simple. Aluminum extrusions and aluminum machining is the name of our game, and we do it well. We proudly serve the following industries:

    • Aerospace
    • Electrical
    • Transportation
    • Marine
    • Sporting Goods
    • Government

    With our large rectangular extruding container (the largest in North America), we’re capable of welding, bending, punching, painting and anondizing aluminum extrusions effortlessly.

    So what are you waiting for? Let’s work together on your mission using our expertise. Call us at (800) 563-6853 or email us at info@taberextrusions.com.

    15 05, 2017

    Extruded Aluminum in High Demand, Expected to Grow, Says Market Reports

    2017-07-26T17:48:05+00:00May 15th, 2017|

    extruded aluminum

    According to a recent compilation from Research and Markets supported by a variety of other reports, extruded aluminum are on the upswing, which is great news for the aluminum industry. The primary force behind the projected growth is the automotive sector – in which aluminum –extruded products are desirable in the manufacturing of light-weight, high-strength products.

    “The global market for extruded aluminum is projected to grow from USD 34.48 billion in 2016 to reach USD 47.61 billion by 2021, at an estimated CAGR of 6.67%.” Says the recent report. In addition to the auto industry, “the market for aluminum-extruded products is also being driven by the growing demand in industries such as construction, aerospace & defense, and mass transport in both, developed and developing countries.”

    However, the quickest growing segment of extruded aluminum products are the mill-finished products. Their high performance in extreme conditions makes mill-finished products favorable in machinery and equipment, construction, and automotive.

    For more aluminum extrusion news, interesting stories, and Taber culture, visit the blog section of our website – or if you are interested in contacting us directly please e-mail info@taberextrusions.com or call us at 888-985-4913.

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