5 Methods Used In Aluminium Fabrication
Aluminium fabrication involves various processes that shape, cut, and join aluminium to create components for industries such as construction, automotive, and aerospace. Different fabrication methods are used depending on the requirements of the final product.
Each method used by aluminium fabrication companies in Dubai ensures precision, strength, and durability while maintaining the lightweight properties of aluminium.
Cutting:
Cutting is one of the fundamental methods in aluminium fabrication. It involves removing excess material to achieve the desired shape and size. Common cutting techniques include:
- Shearing: Uses a straight blade to cut aluminium sheets.
- Laser cutting: Provides precise and clean cuts using a high-energy laser beam.
- Water jet cutting: Uses high-pressure water mixed with abrasives to cut through aluminium without generating heat, reducing material distortion.
Bending:
Bending reshapes aluminium sheets or bars without cutting them. This is done using machines like press brakes or rolling machines. The process allows manufacturers to create curved structures, enclosures, or frames. Proper bending ensures that aluminium maintains its strength and does not crack under stress.
Welding:
Welding is used to join two or more aluminium pieces together. Since aluminium has high thermal conductivity, specialised welding techniques are required, such as:
- Tungsten inert gas (TIG) Welding: Produces clean and strong welds, commonly used for thin aluminium sheets.
- Metal inert gas (MIG) Welding: Faster than TIG welding and suitable for thicker aluminium sections.
- Friction stir welding: Uses frictional heat to join aluminium without melting it, ensuring strong and defect-free welds.
Extrusion:
Extrusion involves forcing heated aluminium through a die to create specific cross-sectional shapes, such as rods, tubes, or channels. This method is widely used in making window frames, heat sinks, and structural components. Extruded aluminium maintains uniformity and high strength.
Machining:
Machining processes, such as milling, drilling, and turning, remove material to create precise shapes and features. CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machining is commonly used to achieve high accuracy and consistency in aluminium parts, especially for aerospace and automotive applications.
Aluminium fabrication includes various methods such as cutting, bending, welding, extrusion, machining, and anodising. Each technique plays a key role in shaping aluminium for different applications, ensuring durability and efficiency in manufacturing processes.
