Extrusion Die Cooling

Extrusion die cooling is a critical heat management system applied in aluminum extrusion processes to control the die exit temperature. Especially in high-speed extrusion presses, stabilizing the die temperature plays a decisive role in product quality and die life.

Nitrogen-assisted extrusion die cooling systems, compared to classic water or air-based methods, provide more precise and dynamic temperature control, helping to create isothermal extrusion conditions.

In aluminum extrusion processes, an uncontrolled increase in die exit temperature can lead to the following problems:

• Deterioration in profile surface quality
• Dimensional tolerance deviations
• Inconsistencies in mechanical properties
• Thermal fatigue in die steel
• Necessity to reduce production speed

Therefore, the extrusion die cooling system is not only auxiliary equipment; it is a fundamental component of process stability.

What is Isothermal Extrusion?

Isothermal extrusion is a process approach that aims to produce the profile with the most constant metal temperature possible at the die exit.

When die exit temperature control is not provided:

• Temperature fluctuations occur throughout the profile
• Surface quality varies
• Ram speed is limited

Nitrogen-assisted die cooling systems contribute to isothermal production by minimizing these temperature fluctuations.

How Does a Nitrogen-Assisted Extrusion Die Cooling System Work?

In a nitrogen (LIN) assisted extrusion die cooling system, liquid nitrogen is applied to the die exit area in a controlled manner. The goal is not sudden shock cooling; it is to maintain a constant target temperature range.

System components:

• Profile temperature sensor
• Cryogenic control valves
• Subcooler and gas phase management
• PLC-based closed-loop control system

Temperature is continuously measured and nitrogen flow rate is automatically adjusted. This results in a more stable process in the aluminum extrusion line.

What are the advantages of Nitrogen Die Cooling?

With a nitrogen-assisted extrusion die cooling system:

• Higher ram speed production is possible
• Profile surface quality is maintained
• Consistency in mechanical properties is ensured
• Thermal load on the die is balanced
• Die life is extended
• Recipe-based, repeatable production is possible

This system is not only a cooling solution but also a process optimization tool.