Heat Treatment

A Temperature For Every Alloy

The extrusion process doesn’t end when the material exits the extrusion die. Different alloys respond to changes in temperature in unique ways, and it’s our job at Mid-States Aluminum to ensure that each product is properly treated for optimum strength and performance.

Solution Heat Treatment

This process is performed by maintaining the proper exit temperature as the extrusion emerges from the press during the extrusion process and then quenching it at the proper rate. Temperatures and rates vary by alloy. Holding the extrusions at the proper temperature allows the aluminum, along with any alloying elements, to enter into a solid solution.

Artificial Aging

Magnesium and silicon are the major alloying elements in 6000 series alloys. These elements combine to form magnesium silicide. The artificial aging process produces fine grain magnesium silicide precipitates that will increase the strength of the 6000 alloys.

Due to the effects on the magnesium silicide precipitates, this process can also be called precipitation heat treatment. The aging process also occurs naturally (uncontrolled) over time. However, by controlling the times and temperatures in the artificial aging ovens, maximum strength and benefits can be achieved.