aluminum shapes Archives - Page 2 of 2

3 10, 2022

The Benefits of Aluminum Extrusions as a Solution to Product Design Challenges

maria2023-03-07T02:09:39+00:00October 3rd, 2022|

Triptych with left image displays 5 samples of Taber’s aluminum extrusion products in varied shapes. Middle image shows a curved exterior of a building with beautifully designed rectangularly framed windows. The last photo on the right is a sepia-toned picture of another building showing staggered rectangularly framed windows.

The benefits of aluminum extrusions as a solution to product design challenges are numerous. Aluminum is an abundant mineral found in the Earth’s crust. It is highly conductive, has low density, has excellent resistance to corrosion, is malleable, and most importantly — it is recyclable! Combined with the process of extrusion, it is the most cost-effective, functional, and efficient way of achieving form and function in design and engineering.

From humble beginnings in 1894, Alexander Dick developed the hot extrusion process allowing non-ferrous alloys to be extruded. The applications for aluminum in architecture, engineering, electronics, transportation, and other industries has grown exponentially since then.

According to Technavio, the aluminum extrusion market share is expected to increase by 8.87 million tons from 2020 to 2025, and the market’s growth momentum will accelerate at a CAGR of 5.02%.

“Form follows function — that has been misunderstood. Form and function should be one, joined in a spiritual union.” — Frank Lloyd Wright

A black and white oval-framed portrait of the great American architect and designer, Frank Lloyd Wright. In line with the portrait, written in bold white font on a blue background is a quote from the late architect, “Form follows function—that has been misunderstood. Form and function should be one, joined in a spiritual union.”

The Benefits of Aluminum Extrusions on Form and Function

What is form and function? It is a principle of design associated with late 19^th– and early 20^th-century architecture and industrial design in general, which states that the shape of a building or object should primarily relate to its intended function or purpose.

This is only a part of how the benefits of aluminum extrusion helps designers, engineers, and industries in building and shaping our world. It is basically all around us, from a simple child’s toy to a medical device that saves lives. From vehicles and infrastructure that transport us by land, sea, and air — to the satellites that connect us seamlessly through technology. This process has changed how we live, thrive, and build our future.

Collage showing the different industries that use aluminum extrusion. The upper left photo shows a beautiful view above the city traffic and skyscrapers with lights on at night. Below that is a photo showing a huge cargo ship leaving the docks with a view of the sunset. Beside it, on the right is a high-speed train with a red roof and aluminum body passing through a modern underground terminal. Lastly, in the upper right corner, is a photo of a satellite orbiting near Earth in space.

Through the years, aluminum extrusion has evolved and grown alongside advancements in technology. These breakthroughs helped the industry improve raw materials with the aid of modern testing and surveying. As the world goes digital, everything is done using a computer and/or smart technology, which means materials that have undergone the process are precise, accurate, and spot on!

Pentaptych image showing the modern ways of how aluminum extrusion is created and used. First left image shows an engineering surveyor working with surveying equipment. Next is a close-up of a circuit board used in modern electronics. Third is a scientist looking through a telescope wearing a white lab gown and mask. Fourth image is a green metal press in a factory demonstrating how materials are processed in a production line. Last photo shows a desktop computer from above with a hand at a keyboard showcasing how aluminum extrusion is designed.

More Benefits of Aluminum Extrusions as a Design Solution

There are many benefits of Aluminum extrusions in terms of strength, resilience, corrosion resistance, and weight. The material itself is lightweight at about 1/3 that of iron, steel, copper, or brass which makes the material ideal for shipping and logistics. The process enhances the strength-to-weight ratio of the material and is applicable to a variety of industries where weight is a consideration in terms of design and capabilities.

One advantage is that it can develop its own inert aluminum oxide film that blocks further oxidation. While other materials get brittle when temperatures are reduced, aluminum gains strength, making it a preferred choice for low-temperature applications. It diffuses heat which allows designers to optimize heat dissipation in electrical housings and other components.

And what about safety? Aluminum is non-sparking making it suitable when combustible materials are present. Aluminum can be substituted for copper in electrical conductors, can help reduce the cost and weight of electrical connectors. As well, It does not burn and does not produce toxic fumes.

Aluminum is widely used in all industries around the world. Combined with the process of extrusion, it will surely be beneficial in terms of alternative materials and processes that will give way to innovation and continue to enrich our lives.

Collage showing the advantages of aluminum extrusion. First photo shows a sheet of metal material covered in rust and deteriorating. Beside it is a photo of a bicycle parked on a sidewalk covered with thick white snow. Above it is a photo of a small scale with blocks of sugar weighing in at ¼ grams. Lastly, a hanging metal chain with links symbolizing strength.

So, you know the benefits of aluminum extrusions, what’s next? Find the right company that specializes in aluminum extrusions, billet casting, fabrication, microextrusions, friction stir welding, and design assistance.

A Partner That Understands the Benefits of Aluminum Extrusion as a Design Solution

Taber is a full-service partner, and we have an unwavering commitment to consistently meeting and exceeding customer expectations by providing both products and service of the highest quality. This commitment is at the core of our value-added philosophy.

For us, the unique, customized capabilities are key. Taber Extrusions’ specialty is the manufacturing of complex and intricate extrusions which competitors consider difficult or even impossible. Our full range of extrusion presses, from 1800 and 3000 ton to our impressive large 8600 ton, give us unmatched flexibility and profile capabilities.

Take for example, one of the largest extrusion presses in the United States, our 8600-ton press, has the capability to extrude both 16- and 20-inch round billets, and 10” x 28” rectangular billets with a maximum circle size of 31” and up to 100 pounds per foot. With the ability to extrude large, intricate configurations, such as lightweight but strong one-piece extrusions, the customer can incorporate whole assemblies of small components into one extruded part.

Our value-added philosophy, along with our custom capabilities and top-tier customer service, is why Taber has been a leader in the extrusion industry for over four decades.

More About Taber Extrusions

Taber Extrusions, located in Russellville, AR and Gulfport, MS, is a highly regarded provider of aluminum extrusions to a wide variety of industries including aerospace, infrastructure, transportation, defense, and thermal management. ISO-9001 and AS-9100 certified, Taber’s present and future customers can expect to see increased supply opportunities with the expanded set of extrusion solutions, programs, and services.

Founded in 1973, Taber originally pioneered a process for extruding rectangular billet which 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 which houses a new state-of-the-art cast house and two additional presses, 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 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 is proud of its friction stir welding capabilities, and full offering of extruded aluminum components, value-added machining services, and raw material supply to the North American market.

Thank you for your continued support of Taber. If you have any questions, please visit taberextrusions.com or contact one of our Regional Sales Representatives.

Follow Taber Extrusions:

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

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

TWITTER: https://twitter.com/taberextrusions

3 07, 2022

Abundance, Aluminum, and America’s Great Destiny: History of Aluminum for Military Use

maria2023-03-07T00:35:14+00:00July 3rd, 2022|

The Washington Monument, a tall white pyramid capped with an aluminum cone, stands tall on a green lawn, surrounded by flags, and in front of a clear, blue, sky.

From the mountains, to the prairies, God has blessed America with every natural resource. Coal, copper, timber, nickel, phosphate, and an endless list of abundant supplies were given to the most industrious people to ever set before themselves the experiment of freedom and liberty. These American people, when building the Washington Monument, chose a 6-pound aluminum pyramid to cap their achievements. Aluminum, once prized more than gold, had found its way into a place of high honor. Has aluminum, out of all our natural metals, lived up to such a high honor? The historical answer is yes.

Aluminum’s Economic Contribution

Aluminum has been important part of America’s economic engines specifically through the production of aluminum ore. At its height in 1981, the US produced 30% of the world’s primary aluminum. As the industry has become more aware of its environmental responsibilities, much of the US’s production has shifted to secondary production from scrap metal.

Nevertheless, having national deposits has proven a great advantage for American progress, and at times necessary for national security.

A birds-eye-view shot of a mine where tuck is being loaded with silver extraction fed by a belt.

History of Aluminum for Military Use

As a strong, lightweight metal, aluminum was destined to be the most functional alloy for military use. The French, early in the history of aluminum, looked into using it for armor, yet the prohibitive costs kept them from using it in their army. However, it was only a matter of time. With the advent of mass-produced aluminum, warfare changed forever. Let us take a look at the history of aluminum for military use.

The Word Wars and the history of aluminum for military use

During both World Wars, aluminum production in the United States experienced a boom. In World War I, the United States aviation industry relied heavily on this metal. Thousands of planes were manufactured in the United States using aluminum.

A WWII plane for military use made of aluminum with two propellers and u-shaped back wing.

In World War II, new innovations allowed for even more applications for aluminum, even being used to blind the enemy’s newly invented radar. Aluminum powder could also be used to create explosives, in addition to its more standard uses. This war also proved the importance of having national sources. The supply of aluminum from South America was put in jeopardy by German U-boats roaming international waters. Today, the history of aluminum for military use continues to be written.

Aluminum in the Modern Military

Today’s military takes advantage of aluminum to strengthen the core of its equipment. Because aluminum is lighter than steel, it can make ships, planes, and vehicles more efficient and faster. For the same reasons, missiles also are made from this metal. Furthermore, aluminum is strong enough to be used as armor and has saved countless lives as plates fortifying armored vehicles against explosives. Of course, aluminum continues to be used in variety of weapons such as M-15, M-72 and M-79.

Modern day American soldiers carrying rifles run through thick sand, while beyond a large group of soldiers stand in a tight group.

Aluminum: A continuing American success story

Today, the best aluminum and aluminum alloys continue to be manufactured in the United States. US aluminum extrusions are more versatile and precise than ever. Taber has just the right aluminum extruder for all aluminum extrusions and micro-extrusions in high selection of aluminum profiles. Proud to be an American aluminum extrusion company, Taber Extrusion is a leading fabricator of aluminum shapes, aluminum billet, and other aluminum products. Taber’s commercial network, aligned with key aluminum distributors, allows us to reach customers, both domestic and international, that might be too small to take a mill minimum order. It also gives Taber the capabilities to reach industries that aren’t used to buying direct from a mill. We serve the military, government, shipbuilding and many other industries.

Come check out your best aluminum extrusion partner today!

Follow Taber Extrusions:

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

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

TWITTER: https://twitter.com/taberextrusions

6 11, 2017

Taber’s Aluminum Distribution Services

marshall2017-11-06T20:13:30+00:00November 6th, 2017|

When searching for a reliable aluminum extrusion partner, not only must their manufacturing capabilities be considered, but also their aluminum distribution capabilities.

Taber Extrusion is a leading manufacturer of aluminum shapes, aluminum billet, and other aluminum products.

Our commercial network, aligned with key aluminum distributors, allows us to reach customers, both domestic and international, that might be too small to take a mill minimum order. It also gives us the capabilities to reach industries that aren’t used to buying direct from a mill.

“The aluminum distribution market is very significant for Taber. In (our Gulfport location), it’s probably about half our business. Distribution allows us to reach customers that might be too small to take a mill minimum order from us. It also allows us to reach industries that are perhaps not used to buying direct from a mill.” – Allan Bennett, VP of Sales at Taber Extrusions

Taber offers a diverse selection of aluminum products. From both standard and non-standard aluminum shapes, to the production of aluminum billets from the full range of aluminum alloys, we are a full service supplier. We also have extensive CNC-machining and fabrication capabilities.

The company’s profile capabilities range from industry standard extrusions to intricate custom designs that meet specific needs. Our standard shape catalog includes rods, hollows, channels, beams, angles, tees, zees, and bars in a wide range of sizes.

Looking to work with Taber Extrusions? For more information or to request a quote, please call us today at (888) 984-3217 or e-mail us at info@taberextrusions.com.

11 04, 2017

Aluminum Alloys Keep Aircraft in the Sky

marshall2017-07-26T17:49:21+00:00April 11th, 2017|

In the modern era, aluminum alloys are the integral element that keeps the aerospace industry on the cutting edge. Metallurgists are constantly seeking and developing new aluminum alloys to increase the speed, strength, and safety of aircraft. Strong alloys are used to protect aircraft from the stresses of flight; light alloys are used for heat and cold resistance and insulation.

Aluminum is naturally strong, lightweight and very workable. These powerful natural properties are enhanced by combining it with elements such as zinc, copper, and silicon to create a variety of aluminum alloys; some strong, some more malleable for complex aluminum shapes. Modern aircraft parts are made primarily from these alloys, and not just the frame- everything from the engine to the nuts and bolts are made from aluminum due to its attractive cost to weight ratio. Below, you will find some of the most common aluminum alloys found in aircraft, and what they’re used for.

Alloy 2024

One of the most common of the aluminum alloys, 2024 is primarily alloyed with copper, which gives it incredible strength and high fatigue resistance. This makes it the ideal alloy when a high strength to weight ratio is needed, making it perfect for wings and fuselages which are the parts of the aircraft that undergo the most tension.

Alloy 6061

Containing magnesium and silicon, aluminum alloy 6061 is very corrosive resistant and is known for its great weldability. The premiere alloy in aluminum extrusion, 6061 is also used to create fuselages and wings- but is very rarely found in airliners. Mostly, it’s used in small, personal airplanes.

Alloy 6063

Aluminum alloy 6063 is very similar to alloy 6061. Because of this, it’s the most popular alloy for aluminum extrusion.

Alloy 7075

Because of its light weight and incredible strength that is comparable to most steels, alloy 7075 is used for the main frame of aircraft structures. No other aluminum alloys can match 7075 in fatigue resistance, and its reliability is constantly being worked upon to create faster, safer and cheaper airplanes, and its great anodization quality gives it a great finish. Due to this alloy’s high copper content, it is hard to weld.

Sources:

http://www.experimentalaircraft.info/articles/aircraft-aluminum.php

http://metalspecialist.continentalsteel.com/blog/aluminum-in-the-aerospace-industry

http://www.aircraftspruce.com/catalog/mepages/aluminfo.php

For more about Taber and what we can do for your business, get in touch by e-mailing us at info@taberextrusions.com

9 02, 2017

Meet the Man Who Built an Aluminum House in his Spare Time

andre2017-02-09T19:18:49+00:00February 9th, 2017|

Many of us use aluminum every day to preserve our food, insulate our homes, and even travel to and from work. However, mid-century architect Ed Westall has us all beat; in the 1950s he built a beautiful family home entirely out of aluminum! The showpiece stands as a testament to the mid-century modern aesthetic as well as the triumph of human imagination – and the adaptability of aluminum alloys. Of course, we here at Taber are a bit biased in our opinions of aluminum, but we find Westall’s story to be as inspiring as it is illuminating (or shall we say, a-luminating!)

While working as an engineer in the 1940s and 50s, Ed Westall was searching for something more. Something to give his life purpose, and hopefully enrich the lives of others around him. It was post-war America; the economy was booming, and more and more families were looking to upgrade their homes and move out of the cities. Westall wanted to come up with an efficient and affordable way to provide as many homes as possible to as many families as possible. He came up with the idea of an aluminum house due to the availability of the material after the war. His prototype was decidedly Space Age, with many rounded corners and domes, all shining with reflective aluminum siding. His contemporaries marveled at the efficient use of space inside the home, even as they puzzled as to whether the innovative design would catch on.

Ultimately aluminum homes did not become the standard of the future as Westall had hoped, although the material has many applications in modern homes and homebuilding today. We can still take inspiration from his courage and desire to help families around the country. At Taber Extrusions, we are always looking for new ways to inspire our communities around us by creating custom shapes for almost any application. Call us today at (888) 984-1659 to see what aluminum could build for your future!

[/fusion_text][/fusion_builder_column][/fusion_builder_row][/fusion_builder_container]

12 01, 2017

How Extruded Aluminum Saved the Canoe

andre2017-01-26T23:37:27+00:00January 12th, 2017|

The canoe is one of the oldest seafaring vessels in human history, but did you know that its history is inextricably linked with that of the American aluminum industry? Without innovations in extruded aluminum shapes, we might not have the modern canoe we know and love today. It all started after World War II, when the U.S. had been producing record amounts of extruded aluminum for the war effort. After the need for automotive and aerospace parts began to lessen, manufacturers and extruders needed to come up with a new use for the material. Enter: the humble canoe.

Nowadays we think of aluminum as a common metal with many household and recreation applications, including but not limited to water sports. However, because aluminum is not a naturally occurring resource but an alloy made up of multiple elements, there was time before the 1940s when finding the right applications and demand for aluminum shapes was a tricky proposition. World War II changed the U.S. economy and workforce forever by employing millions of recession-stricken Americans for primarily manufacturing-based jobs to aid in the war effort. One such employer was called Grunman, a major supplier of aluminum aircraft for allied forces. After the war, Grunman needed to find a way to stay in business while providing extruded aluminum shapes for the public at large. One of Grunman’s employees, an avid outdoorsman, first came up with the idea of an aluminum canoe after struggling with his traditional canvas and wood constructed model. Aluminum, he proposed, would be significantly lighter, watertight, and easy to manufacture using Grunman’s advance techniques gleaned from extruding military aircraft parts. The gamble paid off, and the canoes quickly became Grunman’s most popular product.

Today aluminum is still one of the most commonly found materials for personal watercraft, and Taber is proud to contribute to this legacy of innovation, ingenuity, and American manufacturing. Visit our site here to learn about some of the other industries we serve besides marine; including automotive, aerospace, and agricultural markets. No matter how unique your idea, Taber’s team of metallurgists and engineers are ready to make it a reality. Get in touch today!

Previous 12