Tungsten Carbide for Aluminum Extrusion Dies

Introduction

Aluminum extrusion produces complex profiles at high temperatures and pressures. Tungsten carbide die components provide long life and precise profile dimensions.

Extrusion Conditions

Aluminum is extruded at temperatures near 500 degrees Celsius under high pressure. Dies must withstand abrasive aluminum flow and thermal cycling without deforming.

Carbide Advantages

Carbide die inserts resist aluminum welding to the die surface, maintain precise profile dimensions, and last significantly longer than H13 tool steel dies. They improve surface finish on extruded profiles.

Die Types

Carbide components are used in flat dies, porthole dies, and spider dies for solid and hollow profiles. The carbide inserts form the bearing surfaces that determine final profile shape.

Polished Surfaces

Polished carbide bearing surfaces prevent aluminum pickup and produce smooth profile surfaces. This reduces downstream finishing and improves extrusion speed.

Conclusion

Tungsten carbide extrusion dies improve profile quality, extend die life, and increase productivity in aluminum extrusion operations.

References

GB/T 7714: GUPTA R, SONG J. Powder metallurgy processing and mechanical properties of cemented tungsten carbide composites[J]. International Journal of Refractory Metals and Hard Materials, 2020, 91: 105246.

APA 7th: Gupta, R., & Song, J. (2020). Powder metallurgy processing and mechanical properties of cemented tungsten carbide composites.

MLA 9th: Gupta, R., and J. Song. "Powder Metallurgy Processing and Mechanical Properties of Cemented Tungsten Carbide Composites."