2023-10-26
How Alloy Tubes Are Made
Alloy Tubes are round, hollow metal tubes produced from various alloys with numerous structural and architectural applications. Produced for various industries ranging from construction, machine manufacturing, aerospace, automotive and furniture production through to furniture retail. Alloy tubes play an essential part of structures, vehicles and machinery alike as their unique properties make them an excellent solution.
When selecting an alloy for tubing, there are a few key points to keep in mind, such as whether it will be exposed to moisture or other chemicals, temperature range needs, and diameter size specifications. If purchasing aluminum tubing for high temperature structures such as heating towers, then choosing an alloy with good corrosion resistance and ductility is of utmost importance.
A metallurgist will recommend an appropriate alloy based on your desired uses and strength level, along with potential environmental hazards that could impact it like chlorine, wastewater and saltwater. Furthermore, they'll look at minimum bend radius rating and maximum vacuum pressure specifications to make sure that whatever aluminum tube you purchase fits into its intended use perfectly.
Extrusion and drawing are two methods used to produce aluminium tube. Extruded tubes are formed by forcing alloy through a die of specific cross-sectional area; similar to forcing toothpaste through a tube. A powerful ram is then used to press against this die, producing tubes with identical profiles as those created by its shape.
Drawing aluminium tube is produced by drawing an extruded rod of aluminium through a die or mandrel, providing a means for creating complex shapes and features using multiple alloys, providing smoother finishes. Furthermore, drawn aluminium tubes may include an extra clad layer designed to protect their inner alloy from being compromised in harsh environments and act as a sacrificial barrier against corrosion.
Aluminium is one of the lightest metals, making it an excellent material choice for construction of numerous products. Outdoor recreation manufacturers utilize aluminium tubing to construct materials such as tent poles and camping chairs while medical companies use it in wheelchair frames, collapsible stretchers, bed frames and crutches. Aluminium's excellent thermal conductivity also makes it popular choice in temperature-control devices like refrigerators and air conditioning systems; plus its lightweight durability also make it popular choice among automobile and rail transportation manufacturers who use it in hydraulic systems, fuel lines frameworks or racks.
Alloy tube