Aluminum glossary

Anodizing is an electrochemical process that converts the surface of aluminum into a long-lasting, high-performance alumina oxide finish. Because it is integrated into the metal rather than just applied to the surface, it cannot peel or chip. This protective finish is very hard and durable and enhances the product’s resistance to corrosion, so it can withstand extreme wear and tear. In fact, the anodized finish is the second-hardest substance known to man, exceeded only by the diamond. The metal is also porous, so it can be colored and sealed, or undergo additional processing, if desired.

A billet is an aluminum log that is used when extruding the aluminum into parts and products. 

Casthouse products are all the products we make in the casthouse, like extrusion ingots, sheet ingots, foundry alloys and high-purity aluminum.

Aluminum reacts with oxygen in the air to form an extremely thin layer of oxide. This layer is dense and provides excellent corrosion protection. It’s even self-repairing if damaged.

The extrusion process starts by heating a billet of aluminum alloy and then forcing it under high pressure through a special steel die using a hydraulic press or ram. Sort of like squeezing toothpaste out of a tube. The result is a piece of aluminum – an extrusion or profile – that will maintain the specific shape of the die and hence has almost unlimited possibilities for design.

After the profile has been extruded, it can be fabricated into different shapes and fitted with various features, like holes for screws and much more.

There are a variety of techniques to join aluminum, such as fusion welding, friction stir welding, bonding and taping. Features that facilitate easy joining are often incorporated into the design of the extrusions.

Milling, drilling, cutting, punching and bending are all common methods for shaping aluminum. The energy input during machining is low, meaning a more sustainable final product.

Aluminum is 100% recyclable and does not lose any of its original properties in the process. Using recycled aluminum only consumes 5% of the energy that is used to make primary aluminum. Hydro’s goal is to enable a more circular economy through our remelt facilities. Here we sort and recycle used and scrap aluminum, so the metal can be used again and again.