Frequently asked questions

Tooling and first samples usually run a few weeks; production follows after sample approval. Exact lead time depends on section size, alloy and finish — we quote it with the RFQ.

MOQ depends on whether a die is needed and the process route. For extrusion with new tooling, MOQ is typically in the low thousands of meters/parts; for CNC-only or existing tools it can be far lower. Share the drawing for a concrete number.

Die cost is a one-time tooling fee set by section size and complexity. We return it with the quote; per-part price then drops sharply with volume. For low volume, near-net CNC from plate can avoid the die entirely.

Anodizing gives a thin, metallic, heat-conductive layer (great for heatsinks) in clear/black. Powder coating gives a thicker, colorful, very durable film (great for enclosures outdoors). Many parts use both: anodize where conduction matters, powder coat where color and weather do.

Send a CAD/STEP/PDF with critical dimensions, alloy, finish and quantity. We review extrudability, return a DFM report, then quote. Your drawing is kept confidential and we offer NDA on request.

No — we don't sell stock T-slot systems. We make custom non-standard structural profiles and frames to your drawing, which is usually stiffer and lighter than assembled T-slot.

ISO 9001 quality management, RoHS/REACH compliance, and we provide material certificates (EN 10204 3.1) and inspection reports with shipments. NDA available.

Cost has two parts: a one-time die fee (set by section size and complexity) and a per-part price that falls with volume. For low volume, machining from plate can avoid the die. Final cost depends on alloy, finish, tolerance and quantity — share the drawing and we return a concrete range; we also flag DFM changes that lower it.

Send a CAD/STEP/PDF with critical dimensions, alloy, finish and quantity through the quote form. We review extrudability, return a DFM report and a price range, usually within 24h on working days. Your drawing is kept confidential and NDA is available on request before you share it.

Choose 6063 when surface finish and anodizing quality matter more than load — it extrudes and anodizes most easily, common for fins and architectural parts. Choose 6061 for higher strength, welding and heavier machining; 6082 where European structural specs or higher loading apply. The full trade-off (incl. 7075) is in our materials guide; if unsure, send the loads and finish and we recommend during DFM review.

Match construction to power density and space: extruded for medium power and volume; skived or bonded when fins must be thin and tall (air still works); CNC for low volume, 3D or pin-fin shapes; liquid cold plate when air can no longer carry the heat. Send watts, hot-spot location, airflow or liquid flow, ambient and target temperature and we propose the construction. See the heatsinks hub.

When the power density outruns air cooling — typically high-density power electronics, batteries and server racks. A water/glycol loop removes far more heat per volume than forced air. We build vacuum-brazed or FSW plates, helium-leak tested to ≤1×10⁻⁹ mbar·L/s and pressure-tested above working pressure. See liquid cold plates.

Bending holds centerline radius to roughly ±1–2° and wall thinning typically 5–15% depending on R/D; we specify mandrel bending to protect the inside wall on thin tubes. Welding holds fit to the prepared joint and controls distortion by sequencing and fixturing; final dims are confirmed by gauge or CMM. Full bands are in our tolerances guide.

Payment can be TT, LC, Trade Assurance or escrow, matched to your risk preference. We ship worldwide on your chosen Incoterms (EXW through DDP), with material certs and inspection reports in the documentation pack. Tell us the market and we propose a combination that fits your import setup.

Yes. Request a STEP through the downloads page. For a custom section we build a parametric draft from your envelope so you can verify fit in the assembly; once tooled, the production model matches the extruded part because both reference the same datum.

Yes. The die is yours for the life of the project — we store and maintain it and reuse it for reorders at no extra tooling charge. We monitor wear during production and advise before a replacement is needed, so your repeat pricing stays predictable.