In 1797, Joseph Bramah patented the first extrusion process for making lead pipe. It involved preheating the metal and then forcing it through a die via a hand driven plunger. The process wasn't developed until 1820 when Thomas Burr constructed the first hydraulic powered press. At this time the process was called squirting. In 1894, Alexander Dick expanded the extrusion process to copper and brass alloys.

The process begins by heating the stock material. It is then loaded into the container in the press. A dummy block is placed behind it where the ram then presses on the material to push it out of the die. Afterwards the extrusion is stretched in order to straighten it. If better properties are required then it may be heat treated or cold worked.

Cold extrusion is done at room temperature or near room temperature. The advantages of this over hot extrusion are:

• The lack of oxidation
• Higher strength due to cold working
• Closer tolerances
• Good surface finish
• Fast extrusion speeds

Materials that are commonly cold extruded include: lead, tin, aluminum, copper, zirconium, titanium, molybdenum, beryllium, vanadium, niobium, and steel.

Spectrum Machine can provide bronze or brass extruded materials for your next project. From custom shapes to standard brass or bronze mill lengths, we have the industry knowledge to get the exact raw material or finished part requirment to your facility.

From concept to delivery allow our experienced staff to provide you with quality bronze products. We stock all available mill sizes in C93200, C86300, C95400, C86300, C95500, C90300, C90500, C90700, C36000, C63000, and C46400 along with may non-stock sizes and large diameter sizes in these alloys. Please see our stock list for more information. If you have any questions please contact us, or call 330-626-3666.