Aluminium 1 x 1/8 U Channel Sections | 1″ x 1/8″ (3.2mm) Wall

Aluminium 1 x 1/8 U Channel

The use of aluminium channel sections, particularly the U section, has increased in the construction and industrial sectors over the past few years. Speciality Metals’ 1″ x 1″ x 1/8″ (3.2mm) Wall U section stands out for its 6082T6 aluminium grade, known for its durability and strength. This, along with its variety of sizes, including 500mm, 1000mm, and 2000mm, make it suitable for a variety of applications. U sections made of aluminium have numerous advantages, including being lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and simple to work with. As another benefit, it requires little to no maintenance and doesn’t corrode. Overall, aluminium U sections are popular due to their strength, versatility, and affordability compared to other materials like steel. Whether you are looking for a durable, low-maintenance option for your construction or industrial needs, this is an excellent choice.

Quick product details:

• Metal – 6082T6 Grade Aluminium
• Coating – No. There is no coating.

Why Choose Speciality Metals

Speciality Metals is known to be the United Kingdom’s best up-and-coming small-quantity metal company.

• FREE UK delivery on all orders
• Order dispatch within 24 hours of order
• Located in Warrington, UK which is the UK home of mesh and metals
• Our experienced staff are experts in the mesh market and care personally about your customer experience

Furthermore we stock a vast range of aluminium tube lengths that compliment our mesh range perfectly.

Over 50,000 customers of Specialty Metals are provided with fast, friendly customer service every year. We’re the place to try when you need metal of any shape and size. We’re based in Warrington, UK. We pride ourselves on our rapid turnaround and a large range of options.

FAQs About This Product

What is Aluminium U Channel?

Aluminium U channel is a specific type of extruded profile made from aluminium, characterised by its “U” shape. It consists of a base and two parallel legs, resembling the letter ‘U’ when looked at from a cross-sectional perspective. Aluminium U channels are popular due to aluminium’s lightweight, corrosion resistance, and malleability. These channels are utilised in various applications, from building and construction projects, such as window frames and door tracks, to specialised uses in the automotive and aerospace industries. Their design provides both structural strength and a convenient shape for various functions, such as guiding or securing other materials within the channel. The versatility and durability of aluminium U channels make them a sought-after component in many industries.

Why Choose Aluminium for U Channels Over Other Metals?

Choosing aluminium for U channels over other metals offers a multitude of benefits. First and foremost, aluminium is renowned for its lightweight properties, making installations easier and reducing the overall weight in applications like transportation and aerospace. Despite its lightness, aluminium doesn’t compromise on strength, providing a robust and durable solution. Its natural resistance to corrosion ensures a longer lifespan, especially in environments prone to moisture or chemicals, reducing maintenance costs and replacements. Additionally, aluminium is highly malleable, allowing for versatile and intricate extrusion designs without the need for expensive tooling. The metal also boasts excellent thermal and electrical conductivity. Furthermore, aluminium’s eco-friendly nature, stemming from its recyclability, positions it as a sustainable choice, reducing the environmental footprint of projects. Combining these advantages, it becomes evident why aluminium stands out as the preferred choice for U channels over other metals.

How is Aluminium 1 x 1/8 U Channel Manufactured?

Here’s a step-by-step overview of how it’s done:

1. Raw Material: The process begins with raw aluminium, which can either be primary aluminium (from the bauxite refining process) or recycled aluminium.

2. Billet Preparation: The raw aluminium is heated and cast into cylindrical billets. The size and diameter of these billets are selected based on the required extrusion dimensions.

3. Billet Heating: Before extrusion, the aluminium billet is heated to a specific temperature, often between 800°F to 925°F (425°C to 495°C). This softens the aluminium to facilitate the extrusion process.

4. Extrusion: The heated billet is then placed in the extrusion press, where a hydraulic ram pushes the softened aluminium through a die. The die is a steel disc with an opening cut out in the shape of the desired profile – in this case, a 1 x 1/8 U Channel. As the billet is pressed through the die, it takes on the shape of the U channel.

5. Cooling: Once extruded, the long aluminium U channel profile is cooled, typically using air or water. This solidifies the aluminium into its new shape.

6. Stretching: After cooling, the extruded profile is stretched to straighten it and ensure the correct dimensions and strength properties.

7. Cutting: The stretched profile is then cut into the desired lengths using specialised saws.

8. Heat Treatment: Some aluminium U channels may undergo a heat treatment process to enhance specific properties, such as strength or hardness. This process is known as aging or tempering.

9. Finishing: The U channel can then be given various finishes, such as anodising, painting, or powder coating, to enhance its appearance and increase corrosion resistance.

10. Quality Inspection: Once all processes are complete, the final product undergoes a series of inspections to ensure it meets the required specifications and standards.

Check out our blog discussing different applications for aluminium U channel. It will prove a useful read to help you to make an informed decision on which material would work best for you. 

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