While sometimes available in plate or sheet form, 2024 aluminum is typically in extruded form. 2024 aluminum extrusions are produced by subjecting the 2024 aluminum to extreme pressure through a steel die to acquire a specific cross-sectional shape or profile. Aluminum alloy 2024 extrusions are easier to work with.

Here are the main steps in 2024 aluminum extrusion process:

  • Aluminum ingots and alloying elements are put to heat in a furnace for hours
  • Molten aluminum is cast into logs and cooled to room temperature
  • Logs are preheated and sheared
  • The resulting billets are then extruded into the desired profiles
  • The product is cut and stretched to remove bends/twists
  • Final cutting to transportable/usable lengths
  • Aging and testing
  • Packaging and delivery to the customer

2024 aluminum extrusions can take different forms, from bars, tubes to custom shapes.