FISA counts with four hydraulic aluminum extrusion presses. This results in an annual extrusion capacity of 52 million pounds. Extrusions of up to 10.25” of circumscribed circle can be produced in our presses.

Aluminum extrusion is a semi-continuous process in which a preheated billet is forced through a die opening. The result is a product with uniform cross section given by the geometry of the die. An extensive variety of solid or hollow cross-sections can be produced by extrusion. Through extrusion, the mechanical properties of aluminum are improved since it is converted from a casted material to a forged material.

After the metal is extruded at high temperatures that increase its plasticity, it is moved onto a table where it is cooled with air or water depending on its size, shape, the alloy and the properties required. The material is then stretched in order to get straight extrusions and eliminate any residual stresses. After cooling and stretching, the extrusions are cut into the desired lengths. Finally, they are placed in trays that go into an oven at about 190°C for 6 to 8 hours, depending on the desired temper. This is called the ageing process and is carried out to give the material the correct strength and surface hardening.