AEC Launches Interactive Guide for Automotive Aluminum Extrusions

摘要

Automobile manufacturers are using a number of methods to improve fuel economy. Some of the most effective methods to achieve this are engine downsizing, turbo systems, electrification, aerodynamics, and lightweighting. When trying to lightweight a vehicle, a number of OEMs will implement aluminum extrusions, and for good reason. Aluminum extrusions are an efficient technology delivering low mass, structural rigidity, high thermal conductivity, and leak-free fluid transfer. For example, the Ford F-150 pickup, the world's number one best selling vehicle, utilizes an all-aluminum design, which incorporates around 70 lbs (32 kg) of extrusions in order to create a safe and efficient body structure. In recent years, the conversation has heated up on electrification. Will it gain market acceptance and, if so, how will it affect the material selection? Logically, range-limited vehicles will benefit most from lightweight structures, yet because of the expensive batteries and related operating systems, automotive OEMs need to carefully manage costs.