Extrusions
Precision-engineered to meet your exact needs.
Metra North America is no stranger to delivering high-performance solutions for the most demanding applications. With advanced manufacturing, deep expertise and a commitment to quality, we create extrusions that combine strength, efficiency and innovation.
Extrusions FAQ
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This is the most frequent question because extrusion is a volume-based process. Most industrial extruders have high MOQs (e.g., 1,000 to 5,000 lbs) because the cost of setting up the press and changing dies is high.
Small Batch vs. Large Scale: Some specialty "miniature" extruders offer much lower MOQs or even prototypes, but the price per foot will be significantly higher.
Weight vs. Length: MOQs are almost always calculated by the total weight of the run, not the number of pieces.
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If you aren't using a "standard" shape (like a basic tube or angle), you need a custom die.
Cost: A solid die (for flat shapes) typically ranges from $800 to $1,500, while a hollow die (for tubes or complex internal voids) can range from $1,500 to $5,000+.
Ownership: This is a critical legal detail. Usually, you pay for the tooling fee, but the extruder physically keeps and maintains the die. You should always clarify if you have the right to move the die to another supplier if needed.
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Modern buyers rarely want just a raw "mill finish" bar; they want a finished part to simplify their supply chain. Common follow-up questions include:
Fabrication: Can you perform CNC machining, precision cutting, or drilling holes?
Finishing: Do you offer in-house Anodizing (for corrosion resistance and color) or Powder Coating?
Assembly: Can you provide kitting or light assembly so the parts arrive ready for the final product?
Stock & Open Dies/Dunnage
What You Need. When You Need It.
We inventory a wide range of stock dies and open profiles, enabling us to expedite production and reduce lead times. We also offer custom die services for unique profile requirements.
To ensure safe handling and transportation, we provide tailored dunnage solutions to protect profile integrity.
Process Flow
Quality And Precision At Every Step
Our aluminum extrusion process begins with selecting the appropriate alloy and die design. Preheated aluminum billets are then forced through the die under high pressure, forming the desired profile.
Post-extrusion, profiles undergo quenching, mechanical treatment, and aging to attain specified metallurgical properties. Depending on your requirements, extrusions may receive additional finishing, fabrication, or assembly before packaging and shipment.
Alloys & Tempers
Renowned For Strength and Finish
We specialize in 6000 series heat-treatable aluminum alloys, renowned for their strength, machinability, corrosion resistance and excellent finish quality. Post-extrusion, the aluminum is aged in temperature-controlled ovens to achieve the precise mechanical properties required. Commercially pure aluminum grades are valued for electrical conductivity and formability, not structural strength.
See the list below for specific alloys.
1050, 1100, 6005, 6005A, 6061, 6063, 6082, 6463, E6063
Value Added Services
Enhancing Beauty and Functionality
To enhance functionality and aesthetics, we offer a range of value-added services, including precision cutting and fabrication, deburring, bending, CNC machining and buffing.
It’s an integrated approach that ensures high quality, ready-to-use aluminum components tailored to your specifications.