Hot extrusion is a process in which a metal piece is pushed through a die using an external force. The process is often used to create high-precision parts with complicated geometries or shapes that are difficult to produce with conventional machining. Hot extrusion generally involves pushing the metal through a die at a temperature higher than the metal’s recrystallization temperature using high force. The resulting part will have a uniform cross-sectional profile and excellent mechanical properties.
Hot extrusion is most suitable for metals such as aluminum, copper, and steel alloys that can be extruded at elevated temperatures. Cold extrusion, on the other hand, is best used for parts made from softer metals such as brass or lead. Hot extrusion has many advantages over cold extrusion, including improved dimensional control, higher strength, better surface finish, and increased productivity. The process is also more economical than other manufacturing processes, such as machining, because it requires fewer tool changes and has minimal waste.
Hot extrusion is a versatile process that can be used to manufacture a variety of parts, from simple cylinders and tubes to complex shapes and components. For example, the process can be used to create automotive axle shafts, hand tools, medical components, and fasteners. Hot-extruded parts can also be customized to meet specific design requirements. The process can be used to add features such as threads or baffles to a part, as well as intricate shapes such as grooves or curves.
The hot-extrusion process involves pushing hot metal through the die. The die is typically made of a hardened material with a cavity or shape cut to the desired size and shape of the part being produced. Heat is usually applied to the metal prior to extrusion to bring it up to the necessary temperature. Once the hot metal is pushed through the die, it is then cooled, hardened, and finished to produce the desired part.
Due to the high internal pressures and temperatures used in the process, hot extrusion requires specialized equipment. The equipment must be designed and constructed to withstand the harsh operating conditions. Additionally, the dies used in the process must be of high-quality materials and made to precise tolerances in order to achieve the desired product.
Hot extrusion is a cost-effective and efficient way to create complex parts with excellent strength and dimensional accuracy. In addition, the process does not produce a large amount of waste, making it an attractive option for many manufacturers. Therefore, hot extrusion is an important process in the manufacturing industry.