Frequently Asked Questions
Answers about billets, 6061 and 6063 alloys, T5 and T6 tempers, finishes, and die manufacturing.
What's the difference between a billet and an ingot?
An ingot is the raw cast form; a billet has already been processed to a specific diameter and length and is ready for extrusion.
Which aluminum alloys are most common?
6061 and 6063 are the most common because they provide a practical balance of extrudability, mechanical strength, and corrosion resistance.
What's the difference between T5 and T6?
T5 is applied directly after extrusion, while T6 includes an additional solution heat treatment before aging to achieve higher strength.
What is the maximum extrudable length?
Standard industrial presses can produce profiles up to approximately 6 to 7 meters long, depending on the cross-section and project requirements.
Can extruded aluminum be anodized or painted?
Yes. Profiles can receive natural or colored anodizing and electrostatic powder coating, depending on the required appearance and protection.
What is the minimum order for a custom profile?
The minimum order depends on the die design, profile complexity, and production volume. Contact us so we can evaluate the specific project.
How long does it take to manufacture a new die?
A new extrusion die generally takes 2 to 4 weeks to manufacture, depending on its complexity.
Is extruded aluminum recyclable?
Yes. Aluminum is 100% recyclable and can be recycled repeatedly without losing its fundamental properties.
Still have questions?
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