Select qualified 6061 aluminum alloy round billets. Perform spectral composition analysis to confirm the content of Mg, Si and other alloying elements complies with 6061 alloy specification. Carefully inspect billet surface for cracks, segregation, slag inclusions and blowholes. Check the uniformity of internal metallographic structure by sampling. Record heat number, batch code and inspection data to achieve full production traceability. Unqualified billets will be isolated and rejected before feeding.
2.Extrusion Forming:
Preheat the aluminum billet and extrusion die to the target process temperature. Feed the heated billet into the extrusion cylinder, and apply continuous extrusion force to press the material through the customized profile die to form the designed cross-section shape. The extruded hot profile goes through online traction and straightening to control straightness and twist. Cool the profile uniformly by air cooling to avoid uneven deformation.
3.Aging Heat Treatment:
Load the cooled semi-finished profiles into the aging furnace. Follow the precise temperature and holding time curve for artificial aging treatment. This process precipitates strengthening phases inside the alloy, stabilizes the internal grain structure, and enables the profile to reach the required tensile strength, yield strength and hardness of 6061 aluminum alloy. After aging, samples are taken for mechanical property testing.
4.Cutting & Precision Machining:
Cut aged profiles to customer-specified lengths with precision sawing equipment, controlling the length tolerance and end face flatness. Conduct secondary machining operations as required, such as drilling, tapping, slotting and milling. Remove burrs sharply after machining to prevent scratches during assembly and anodizing.
5.Anodizing Surface Treatment:
Complete a full sequence of surface treatment steps: degreasing to remove oil and cutting residues, alkaline etching to achieve uniform matte texture, neutralization to remove black smut, anodic oxidation to build up a dense aluminum oxide film, and final sealing to close the micropores of the oxide layer. The finished anodized layer provides reliable corrosion resistance and wear resistance.
6.Final Inspection & Packaging:
Carry out comprehensive final inspection, including cross-section dimension check, length tolerance, straightness, surface appearance, oxide film thickness and hardness verification. Mark qualified products. Wrap each profile with protective plastic film to avoid friction scratches, then pack into cartons or wooden cases with cushioning materials to prevent deformation and damage during storage and shipment.