Although widespread in the construction industry, the use of aluminum extrusions is a relatively new process. The extrusion process was originally developed for working with lead in the late 1700’s and was completed manually until the first hydraulic press was introduced in the 1820’s. Unlike other metals commonly used in building and manufacturing, aluminum was also something of a late comer – first being identified in 1807. By the 1820s it was being refined for the first time but it remained a rare, valuable mineral for many years, out-performing gold on the price front.
The early days
By the 1880’s, the smelting process for aluminum meant that the material was more widely available and, more importantly, far cheaper. In the early days of working aluminum, the main processes used were casting or rolling. In 1894, the modern extrusion process was developed and the material began to be widely used in the construction and manufacturing industries.
Speedy developments
The rapid development of the motor manufacturing industry and later, the aviation industry, saw widespread need for a lightweight, durable material. Aluminum fitted the bill perfectly and was rapidly taken up in both fledgling industries. During both World Wars, and particularly the second, the material was required in large quantities to build planes and became firmly entrenched as one of the most important elements in the construction of aircraft.
Space to create
Today aluminum extrusion suppliers continue to supply the material to a wide range of industries. Its lightweight qualities combined with its durability and suitability in different temperature conditions mean that it remains widely used in both motor and aviation industries but also in many architectural projects. The aluminum extrusion industry has also kept up with the high-flying ambitions of the human race and has been used as an essential component in the construction of satellites, rockets and shuttles.
World domination
Modern construction sites usually also rely heavily on this light metal, and it can be found in the fabric of buildings, windows and doors. Although one of the most recent materials utilized by the human race in their construction efforts, it’s fair to say aluminum extrusion suppliers are now one of the most important suppliers to construction, aviation and auto industries across the globe.
Howard Precision Metals is one of the Midwest’s largest distributors of aluminum. In addition to Aluminum Plate, they stock a huge range of sawing equipment; you won’t find better aluminum extrusion suppliers in the area.
