[China Aluminum Industry Network] Comprehensive Guide to Aluminum Alloy Profiles:
Aluminum alloy profiles are produced by melting aluminum ingots and extruding them into various cross-sectional shapes. The manufacturing process typically involves three main stages: casting, extrusion, and surface treatment. Surface treatments include anodizing, electrophoretic coating, fluorocarbon spraying, and powder coating, among others. These treatments enhance the material’s durability, aesthetics, and resistance to corrosion.
Aluminum profiles can be categorized based on their application:
1. Industrial Aluminum Profiles: Widely used in aerospace, automotive, rail transport, and electrical equipment.
2. Architectural Aluminum Profiles: Commonly used for Doors, Windows, curtain walls, and interior and exterior building decorations.
When it comes to surface finishing, there are several common types:
1. Anodized Aluminum: The surface is treated with an electrochemical process that creates a protective oxide layer, which can then be colored either electrolytically or through organic dyes.
2. Electrophoretic Coated Aluminum: This involves anodizing followed by an electrophoretic painting process, offering excellent adhesion and durability.
3. Powder-Sprayed Aluminum: A thermosetting polymer powder is applied via electrostatic spray and cured at high temperatures, providing a tough, long-lasting finish.
4. Fluorocarbon Paint Sprayed Aluminum: A high-performance coating made from polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), known for its weather resistance and color retention.
In addition, some modern profiles use heat-insulating materials like composite strips or cast compounds to improve thermal performance.
Key Factors to Consider:
1. Appearance Quality: For anodized profiles, the surface must be free of electric burns, peeling oxide layers, or other defects. Coated surfaces such as electrophoretic, powder, or fluorocarbon finishes should be smooth, even, and free from wrinkles, cracks, bubbles, or flow marks. Minor areas without coating near the ends are acceptable within 80mm. Poor appearance can negatively impact architectural aesthetics, so it's important to protect the profiles during transport and storage. Some products on the market may show water-like grain patterns or mold spots, indicating issues in the production process.
2. Wall Thickness: The thickness of the profile significantly affects its structural strength. For example, the minimum wall thickness for an outer window frame should be at least 1.4mm.
3. Film Thickness: Since raw aluminum has limited corrosion resistance, surface treatments are essential. Anodized films are classified into AA10, AA15, AA20, and AA25. Electrophoretic coatings have different levels (A, B, S), while powder coatings typically range up to 40µm. For multi-layer coatings, the average thickness should be ≥30µm for two layers, ≥40µm for three, and ≥65µm for four.
4. Chemical Composition and Mechanical Properties: Different aluminum alloys have varying chemical compositions and mechanical properties depending on their grade and temper condition. It's crucial to refer to relevant standards or contracts when selecting materials.
5. Color and Color Variation: Colors may vary between different brands and batches. To maintain a consistent look in architectural projects, it's advisable to choose colors that match well and ensure availability.
6. Corrosion Resistance: Aluminum profiles must withstand salt spray, abrasion, weathering, and exposure to mortar. These factors determine the product’s longevity and suitability for specific environments.
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