28 06, 2024

Taber Does That — Aluminum Extrusion in Gulfport, Mississippi

2024-06-28T19:36:40+00:00June 28th, 2024|

The text,“Taber Does That: Aluminum Extrusion in Gulfport?” is printed on a world map background. The image includes three hexagonal insets showing large aluminum billets handled by an overhead crane, a cylindrical extrusion, and workers operating machinery, highlighting the company’s capabilities.

For over 40 years, Taber has been a trusted leader in aluminum extrusion in Gulfport. They don’t just create extrusions. They control the entire process, from in-house billet casting at their state-of-the-art aluminum casthouse to the final extrusion of your desired shape. Paying close attention to details ensures that only the best quality materials are used and that every step is under their complete control.

 

Taber Extrusions’ Gulfport, Mississippi facility featuring freshly cast billets, with a graphic below noting various sizes of billets reflecting their capabilities: 10”x 28”, 20”, 16”, 11”, 9”, 8”, and 7”

Taber Extrusions’ Story is a Legacy of Innovation

Taber Extrusions’ journey in the world of aluminum extrusion began in 1973. They carved their niche by pioneering a process for extruding rectangular billets, allowing them to create extrusions in impressive sizes — up to 31 inches wide for solid profiles and 29 inches for hollows. This innovation established Taber as a leader in the industry.

Over the years, Taber has continuously expanded its expertise and legacy in the aluminum extrusions industry. A pivotal moment came in 1995 with the acquisition of a facility in Gulfport, Mississippi. This expansion wasn’t just about acquiring more space; it signified a leap forward in capabilities. The Gulfport facility features a state-of-the-art aluminum casthouse, giving Taber greater control over production. It also added two new extrusion presses and micro-extrusion capabilities, further diversifying their offerings. The fabrication area has also seen multiple expansions, solidifying their ability to deliver complete aluminum solutions.

In July 2017, Taber Extrusions significantly upgraded their casthouse in Gulfport, Mississippi. The outdated technology limited their ability to meet the growing demand for high-quality aluminum billets.

Partnering with Almex USA, Taber installed a brand-new casting line featuring:

  • Degassing and melt purification systems for cleaner aluminum
  • Billet and slab tooling for various sizes and shapes
  • Automation for improved control and efficiency

A unique challenge involved the existing circular casting pit. Through creative solutions, Taber and Almex engineers could adapt the new equipment to fit this legacy design. This included modifying the casting tables and incorporating advanced billet mold systems. Almex increased the billet produced with each cast, boosting Taber’s production efficiency.

 

Taber Extrusions’ Gulfport, Mississippi facility featuring large aluminum billets being handled by a yellow overhead crane marked ‘TABER.’

The casthouse modernization has resulted in several key benefits for Taber:

  • Higher billet quality: Improved filtering and cleaner melt ensure dependable strength and a smooth exterior for the billets.
  • Increased production: The new equipment allows Taber to produce more billets per cast and handle a broader range of alloys.
  • Enhanced control & traceability: Automated systems provide precise control over the casting process and ensure consistent quality for every billet.

Today, Taber is a multifaceted aluminum extrusion company. They’ve transitioned from their initial focus to offering a comprehensive range of services. Taber caters to a wide range of markets beyond their military roots, from custom extrusion and fabrication to heat treatment and quality assurance. Aerospace, automotive, marine, infrastructure, and sporting goods are just a few industries that rely on Taber’s expertise. Their clients’ needs are met by supplying cast and extruded aluminum products in various alloys.

How does the Taber Advantage transform raw materials into finished products?

Have you ever wondered how those sleek aluminum components are made? The process behind them is called aluminum extrusion, and it’s like using a high-tech cookie cutter for metal. Imagine soft but solid aluminum being squeezed through a mold with a specific shape. The resulting form, called an extrusion, takes on the exact profile of the mold.

Here’s where Taber truly shines. They control the entire process, starting from the beginning: the raw material. Taber highlights and boasts about their state-of-the-art aluminum casthouse. Here, they use a billet casting technique to create long, solid logs of aluminum called billets. These billets become the foundation for the custom extrusions you envision.

One of the most significant advantages of Taber’s in-house casthouse is their meticulous quality control. By overseeing every step, from molten aluminum to the finished billet, they ensure the highest quality materials are used in your project. After establishing the aluminum alloys’ foundation, let’s explore the building blocks.

What Makes the 5000 & 6000 Series Aluminum Alloys Shine as All-Stars?

Not all aluminum is created equal! Like choosing the right ingredients for a recipe, selecting the appropriate aluminum alloy is key to a successful project. At Taber Extrusions, they offer a variety of alloys to suit your specific needs. Today, let’s shine a spotlight on two of their most popular choices: the 5000 and 6000 series.

The 5000 series aluminum is a champion when it comes to battling the elements. Renowned for its excellent corrosion resistance, this alloy is the go-to choice for applications that face constant exposure to saltwater or harsh weather. Think about the sturdy components on a boat or the weatherproof window frames on a beachfront property –– the 5000 series is likely the hero behind those enduring structures.

On the other hand, the 6000 series aluminum prioritizes strength and workability. This makes it a favorite for projects requiring a balance between both. Picture the lightweight yet robust components in a building’s facade or a machine’s intricate, high-performance parts – the 6000 series is a strong contender for these applications.

Taking Aluminum Alloy in Aerospace to New Heights

A sketch of a collection of several aluminum extruded shapes used in aerospace. The objects vary in size, long and thin, with a flat, rectangular base. They are arranged in a row, with slight positioning variations.

Taber has served all major aerospace manufacturers in the U.S. Their extruded shapes are crucial components for aerospace vehicles, including the pressure cabin/fuselage, cargo/seat tracks, upper/lower wing skin/spars/stringers, and horizontal stabilization. Taber also provides a unique service for the aerospace industry with their large press, which produces hard alloy extrusions.

Diving Deeper into Marine Capabilities

The United States’ largest supplier of 5xxx series extrusions, Taber’s extrusions can be used in various applications from armor-grade plates to oil rig crew boats and equipment. Taber’s corrosion-resistant/weldable extrusions are used on naval vessels in decking, superstructure supports, and hull stiffeners.

Alloys, Tempers, & Certifications for Your Gulfport Extrusion Project

Taber Extrusions’ Gulfport, Mississippi facility boasts a robust selection of presses and capabilities. They operate two presses, one with 1800 tons of force and another with 3000 tons. They possess the ability to undertake a broad spectrum of extrusion tasks.

In terms of materials, Taber offers a variety of aluminum alloys at the Gulfport location. These include popular choices suitable for applications like 6061, 6063, and 5083. They can provide extrusions in various tempers (hardness levels) such as T1, T4, and T6 to meet project specifications.

 

Graphic with Taber’s full range of hard and soft alluminum alloy offerings ranging from 2xxx-7xxx series with a background faded with a blue hue. On the bottom is text that says “Legendary Capability. Where Aluminum Innovation was born” followed by Taber’s website link.

 

The maximum size of the extruded shapes depends on the chosen alloy and temper. For instance, with 5000 series alloys (like 5083), the maximum shape size is typically limited to 11 inches. The weight per foot of the extrusion also varies depending on the size and alloy, ranging from a minimum of 5 lbs/ft to a maximum of 10 lbs/ft.

Taber Extrusions in Gulfport is committed to maintaining high standards of quality and reliability for its products. To achieve this, they hold several certifications that are of utmost importance. These certifications include ISO 9001:2008, EN/JISQ 9100:2009, and ABS Quality Assurance Program. They are also ABS mill-approved to produce specific marine-grade aluminum applications and GL-approved for certain alloys commonly used in construction.

Now, you’ve seen the possibilities within Taber’s toolbox.

How does Taber Extrusions turn dreams into reality through partnership?

Turning your vision into a reality is what Taber Extrusions does best. By partnering with them, you gain access to a wealth of experience and expertise in aluminum extrusion in Gulfport and beyond. Their in-house capabilities, from billet creation to finished product, ensure the highest quality control throughout the process. This meticulous attention to detail translates into durable, long-lasting aluminum components you can rely on.

Taber’s commitment goes beyond exceptional materials. A group of skilled professionals can assist you through the entire process. Whether you have a fully fleshed-out design or are just starting to brainstorm, Taber offers valuable assistance, including design and engineering expertise. They work closely with you to ensure your project meets your vision and achieves optimal functionality.

Ready to transform your dream into a tangible reality? Contact Taber Extrusions today for a consultation or quote! The staff is friendly, knowledgeable, and excited to discuss your project. Visit the website or call (888) 959-1788 to get started.

More About Taber Extrusions

Taber Extrusions is an American aluminum extrusion company and your ideal partner for full-service aluminum extrusions. Excelling in the manufacture of complex and intricate extrusions, Taber Extrusions handles projects that other competitors may find difficult or impossible. Taber utilizes an extensive range of extrusion presses, including 1800, 3000, and the notably large 8600-ton press, offering unparalleled flexibility and capabilities in profile extrusion.

Choose Taber Extrusions for quality products and services that exceed your expectations… the sky’s the limit.

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24 02, 2017

High Strength Aluminum & AHSS

2017-02-24T17:56:44+00:00February 24th, 2017|

As our team began our research to deliver this blog post to you, we kept coming across the most engaging content from the same author as we researched “aluminum extrusions,” “high strength aluminum,” and other metallurgical-related topics. We pride ourselves at being great copywriters, but I found myself getting sucked in to articles like “Sheet Aluminum Alloys for Cans and Cars,” and “Achieving Successful Stamping of AHSS” pulling me in with descriptive content, humor, excellent infographics, and most importantly: highly technical concepts and information that was easy to comprehend. Let’s face it: Aluminum, steel, metallurgy, etc. aren’t the most seductive subjects to write about. Because of this, we decided to see if we couldn’t set up a call with this elusive material science whiz, and what do you know? He accepted our call.

Danny Schaeffler, Ph.D. is currently Founder and President of Engineering Quality Solutions, Inc., and Chief Content Officer at 4M Partners LLC. His resume and experience effortlessly exceed the character counts for each field in his LinkedIn profile. And the best part for us; Schaeffler is an independent third party, so he could discuss anything we asked without either party having concern over commercial or competitive aspects.

The discussion began, not speaking of aluminum extrusions and aluminum casting, but of sheet aluminum in respect to automotive applications. Most of us are aware of the evolving use of Advanced High-Strength Steels due to the new advancements of high-strength steel grades enabling the auto industry to keep costs down while still meeting requirements – especially when it comes to fuel efficiency and crash performance.

So, how do high strength aluminum alloys measure up against AHSS in automotive application?

Advanced aluminum alloys are the fastest growing material (second only to steel) in the design of new vehicles going to market. Drivealuminum.org puts it like this: “Low weight, crash absorbent, durable, corrosion resistant, easily formable and infinitely recyclable, aluminum helps save consumers money at the gas pump while delivering cars and trucks that are safer, greener and better performing. Cars and trucks down-weighted with advanced aluminum alloys are more fuel efficient with fewer life cycle carbon emissions as compared to heavier steel vehicles. Aluminum also is a proven force multiplier for powertrain, vehicle battery, aerodynamic and rolling resistance advances. Aluminum simply builds a better vehicle.”

How about a look at the very different approaches that GM and Ford used in regards to light-weighting vehicles through the use of high strength aluminum alloys over the past decade?

The aluminum truck: The Ford F150 cost approximately two billion dollars to create. Ford gutted their Dearborn and Kansas City plants to build new facilities from the ground up, and filled them with tooling, lasers, and robots designed to work with aluminum rather than steel. By doing this, Ford was able to make an extremely high quality body structure, and shed approximately 700 lbs. per vehicle, according to Ford officials. A very bold move which paid off.

GM, just as committed to reducing the weight of their vehicles, decided to go another route. Without scrapping plants and building new facilities from scratch, GM came up with a patented welding approach to allow for greater use of aluminum and steel on the same vehicle. In summary, they’ve married steel and aluminum through spot welding, reducing the need for rivets, and saving roughly several hundred pounds per vehicle.

The GM approach of being able to spot weld a higher melting point material to a lower melting point material allowed them (more or less) use their existing plants and equipment with a fraction of the capital expense of what Ford had to go through. Aluminum costs more, but you’ll use less of it. Advanced High Strength Steel costs more than high strength steel. But the price premium for AHSS is substantially less than the premium for aluminum. 2 very different approaches. Both effective.

It’s fascinating to keep in mind that most of the sheet aluminum and steel alloys used on today’s vehicles were not even manufactured 20 years ago. They weren’t even a glimmer in Mommy Car & Daddy truck’s headlights. Today we are talking about technologies that didn’t even exist until recently.

Final analysis? The automotive industry is one of the biggest drivers for optimized material selection. The need for globally available parts, and sheer volume and complexity of the automotive assembly process is an ideal litmus test. Lives and livelihoods depend on it. Welcome to the roads, high strength aluminum alloys, your steel counterparts invite you into the mix.

Schaeffler sums it up, “Automotive designers and engineers need to understand the characteristics of today’s materials in order to optimize the balance of cost, manufacturing and safety all while creating a car people want to buy.” Which hits the nail on the head of this riveting discussion!

For more of our super interesting blogs about the aluminum market, aluminum extrusions, and other industry-related topics, visit www.taberextrusions.com or get in touch by e-mailing us at info@taberextrusions.com

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