While you will purchase the aluminum bar or plate you need from a distributor, you need to pay attention to the company producing that metal in the first place. Called aluminum extrusion companies, these firms produce bar stock, plate stock, rod stock, and more. The challenge here is that not all extrusion companies are created equal, and the wrong choice could leave you with inferior metal that does not meet your needs or even suffers from major flaws. What should you look for when comparing aluminum extrusion companies?
Reputation
One of the first considerations here is the reputation of the extrusion company. Are they known for “bottom-dollar” metal production? Are they synonymous with quality? Is the company trusted by manufacturers, designers and distributors around the world? How long has the company been in business? What extrusion methods are used?
Specialization
Does the extrusion company you are considering specialize in a particular type of aluminum extrusion? For instance, do they specialize in semi-finished components, rather than finished components? Do they focus on extruded profiles for use in construction, but not in automotive applications?
Cost
While there is nothing wrong with finding discounted aluminum supplies, you must question the reason for the price. Is it because the company uses low-grade aluminum that has not been fully refined, or that has not had all of its impurities removed?
Markets Served
Do the aluminum extrusion companies you are considering serve your particular market? While most companies do serve a very wide range of needs, there is no one-size-fits-all solution here. For instance, one company might serve the automotive, transport, industrial and energy sectors, while another could cater to the needs of the construction, aerospace, and food and beverage industry.
Finishes and Coatings
Another consideration when comparing aluminum extrusion companies is whether or not the manufacture is able to offer the selection of finishes and coatings you require. For instance, if the aluminum you need will be utilized in a corrosive environment, such as in or near saltwater, or will be exposed to harsh elements like sleet and snow for much of the year, the right coatings will help improve performance and longevity.
Ultimately, the best option might be to work with a distributor that can give you access to high-quality alloys and metal products from the top-rated aluminum extrusion companies in the world.
