Aluminium extrusion is the process of transforming raw aluminium into finished products through the use of specialized machines that force molten aluminium through a die, resulting in the formation of a desired shape. Extrusion can create a variety of shapes including hollow or solid profiles, complex shapes, and flat or curved panels. This process has become increasingly popular in recent years for a number of reasons. Aluminium is a highly versatile and durable material, making it ideal for a range of applications including construction, transportation, and consumer products. Secondly, the extrusion process is highly efficient and cost-effective, allowing for large quantities of high-quality products to be produced at a low cost.

The growth of the aluminium extrusion business can be attributed to a combination of factors including the versatility and durability of the material, the cost-effectiveness of the extrusion process, and the ability to create complex shapes with high precision. As industries continue to innovate and seek out more sustainable and efficient solutions, it’s likely that the demand for aluminium extrusion will only continue to grow in the coming years.

Advantages of Aluminium Extrusions

Ø  Lightweight: Aluminium is one of the lightest commercial metals with a weight that is one-third of steel. This makes aluminium extrusions easier to handle and reduces transportation costs.

Ø  High Strength: Despite being lightweight, aluminium is also very strong. Depending on the alloy and the processing technique used, the strength of aluminium can approach, match, or even exceed the strength of steel.

Ø  Corrosion Resistance: Aluminium naturally generates a protective oxide coating and is highly resistant to corrosion, which is particularly useful for applications that require resistance to weather and other corrosive environments. 

Ø  Flexibility and Versatility: Aluminium can be extruded into an almost infinite variety of shapes. This gives designers and engineers a lot of flexibility when it comes to creating parts and components. 

Ø  Ease of Fabrication and Assembly: Aluminium extrusions can be easily cut, machined, and fabricated into desired shapes. They can be connected using simple methods like screws, bolts, rivets, or even welding. 

Ø  Thermal and Electrical Conductivity: Aluminium is an excellent conductor of heat and electricity. When used in heat transfer applications, such as radiators, air conditioners, and refrigeration units, it can significantly improve efficiency.

Ø Recyclability: Aluminium is fully recyclable and retains its properties indefinitely. This makes aluminium extrusions a very eco-friendly material, aligning with growing global focus on sustainability.

Ø  Cost-effective: Despite their many benefits, aluminium extrusions are generally cost-effective, particularly when considering the lifecycle of the product.

Ø  Non-Magnetic: Aluminium is non-magnetic, an important property for electronics and high-voltage applications.

Ø  Resilience: Aluminium can flex under loads and spring back from the shock of impact, unlike plastics that can break under stress.

Indian Market Outlook

India’s market for aluminium extrusions is driven by several factors, including rapid urbanization and the need for modern construction methods. With an increase in disposable income, consumers have more purchasing power, and they demand high-quality construction materials that meet the latest standards. The country’s growing infrastructure also plays a significant role in driving the demand for aluminium extrusions. With new highways, airports, and commercial projects being developed across the country, there is a greater need for efficient, durable, and lightweight building materials. This has led to a greater demand for aluminium extrusions as they can easily be shaped and molded to meet the needs of these new infrastructure projects. Moreover, the government’s push towards promoting “Make in India” has also boosted the aluminium extrusion industry. The government’s focus on domestic manufacturing has encouraged companies to invest in their production facilities and adopt newer technology to increase their output, which has led to a further expansion of the industry.

Global Market Outlook

The global aluminum extrusion market size was valued at USD 87.84 billion in 2021 and is expected to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.5% from 2022 to 2030. The automotive & transportation sector is witnessing an increase in aluminum content in internal combustion as well as Electrical Vehicles (EVs), which is likely to boost the market growth over the forecast period.  Aluminum has excellent malleability, which makes it easy to produce shapes using the extrusion process. Under this process, aluminum billets are heated and forced with ram or hydraulic press with high pressure on steel dies. Aluminum shapes are formed after this process, which contains the shape of dies. In the automotive & transportation sector, aluminum shapes are used in chassis, roof rails, panels, transmission housings, and engine blocks for trucks, cars, boats, and railways. Demand for structural components is increasing in vehicles to make them lighter. Asia Pacific dominated the global market in 2021 and accounted for the largest revenue share of more than 69%. The region will retain its dominant position throughout the forecast years due to the presence of major manufacturing sectors in countries, such as China, India, Vietnam, Japan, and South Korea. Among these countries, China is projected to play a key role in promoting industry growth through its extensive construction sector.

Conclusion

Aluminium extrusion is an industry that is booming and shows no signs of slowing down. With its unique properties and growing demand, it has become a staple in various industries and has proven to be a reliable choice for manufacturers. As the world moves towards a more sustainable future, the aluminium extrusion industry will undoubtedly play a critical role in shaping the world around us.

Key Players

·         Hindalco Industries Ltd.

·         Arconic Corp.

·         Norsk Hydro ASA

·         Constellium N.V.

·         Kaiser Aluminum

·         QALEX