The most abundant mineral in the earth's crust, aluminum is derived from bauxite, which is mined from the earth. After processing, the resultant alumina undergoes a smelting and alloying process that produces solid logs of cast metal from which extruded aluminum shapes or profiles are made. Most extruded shapes for architectural use are fabricated from AA 6063 an aluminum alloy, with magnesium and silicon as the alloying elements. Type 6063-T5 Aluminum, commonly referred to as the architectural alloy, has a very smooth surface and is the best alloy suited for anodizing applications. The T5 designation indicates it has been artificially aged and moderately heat-treated. Aluminum extrusion is a highly versatile metal-forming process that has a wide array of physical characteristics. These include:

• Can be recycled. Retains a high scrap value. It can be recycled indefinitely without losing any of its superior characteristics, making it especially appealing according to both environmental and economic criteria.
• Lightweight. Weighs about one-third of most other metals which makes it easier to handle and less expensive to ship.
• Strong. Profiles can be made as strong as needed for most applications. Having the strength of a rigid metal prevents swelling and buckling.
• Weather resistant. Cold-weather applications are particularly well served by aluminum because, as temperatures fall, aluminum actually becomes stronger.
• Fire resistant.
• Does not rust because aluminum is protected by its own naturally occurring oxide film.
• Resilient. Can spring back from the shock of impact.
• Not combustible. Even at extremely high temperatures, it does not produce toxic fumes.
• Different finishes available. Can be finished with liquid paint (including acrylics, alkyds, polyesters, and others), powder coatings, and anodizing.
• Seamless profiles. Complex shapes can be realized in one-piece extruded aluminum sections without having to employ mechanical joining methods. The resultant profile typically is stronger than a comparable assemblage and less likely to leak or loosen over time.
• Can be joined in many ways. Extruded aluminum sections can be joined by all major methods in use today.
• Economical. Relatively inexpensive and may not require long lead times. Even short-run prototypes often can be produced at moderate cost.
• Dimensional tolerance. Can be easily manufactured to accepted standard dimensional tolerances.

Company profile and link. www.xxxxxx.com