G. S. Makarov, Scientific Consultant, e-mail: macarovgs@rambler.ru

The technology of Al—Mg—Si-alloy billets casting, homogenizing and cutting, which provides the modern level of quality requirements for extrusion manufacturers, is discussed. The rational application of vertical and horizontal continuous billet casting is defined. The role of the effective length of the mold to obtain high-quality surface of the billet for reducing defects on the surface of the extruded profiles and increase the output is defined. The processes occurring during heat treatment of billets and the advantages of the billet homogenization in continuous furnaces are described. Different approach to the choice of heat treatment for high-tech alloys such as 6060, 6063, AD31, and the average strength structural alloys such as 6061, 6082, AB, AD33, containing Mn, Cr and other transition metals, is highlighted. The characteristic features of the billet cutting and environmental aspects of their manufacturing have been presented.

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