bytimothyharvard

Aluminum channel is widely used in manufacturing, commercial and residential applications where strength and resistance to corrosion are important. Additionally, it can be machined and welded, adding to its versatility and popularity in many industries.

Two aluminum alloys, 6063 and 6061, lend themselves specifically to aluminum channel extrusion. Aluminum channel fabricated with sharp, right-angled corners inside and outside is typically made with the 6063 alloy, and these channels—also known as Aluminum Association channels—are often the choice for architectural applications. Aluminum Association Standard channels, on the other hand, are often supplied in 6061 alloy, do not have distinct right angles, and are preferred for structural use.

Aluminum Alloy 6061 versus Aluminum Alloy 6063

6061 aluminum is the most commonly used aluminum alloy. The properties of 6061 that distinguish it from 6063 are its superior strength, heat treatability and ability to undergo machining and welding with greater ease than its 6063 counterpart. 6061 may be anodized, which results in an additional layer of protection for finished components.

6063, also called architectural aluminum, has a smooth surface finish already, thereby minimizing production finishing. 6063 is slightly more corrosion resistant than 6061 and is often preferred where strength is not the over-riding specification and where cosmetic appearance is critical.

There are a number of profiles which can be made from the different alloys of aluminum C channels, hat channels, U channels, slide track channels nut channels and slide track channels—to name few. The aluminum Z channel is also commonly used in various applications.

Uses of Aluminum Z Channel

Also known as Z-bar, Zee and Purlin, aluminum Z channel is widely represented in many manufacturing efforts:

* Architectural trim * Displays * Cabinets * Storage bins * Enclosures * Garage doors * Support * Metal furniture * Reinforcements * Fencing * Metal buildings * Stiffeners for PVC window and door frames * Slides and tracks * Framing * Store fixtures

Besides the 6061 and 6063 alloys, which are usually “stock,” aluminum Z channel may also be manufactured from another alloy whose properties may be a better fit for a particular project. Because there are many factors to consider when deciding on the alloy to use, it is best to consult an industry expert to ensure that the alloy from which the Z channel is made will support the project’s engineering requirements and desired aesthetics.

For more help about Z channel selection—or any other aluminum extrusion need—contact Eagle Mouldings at www.eagle-aluminum.com. Recognized as a proven professional in the business for over 25 years, Eagle Mouldings will deliver the quality product and customer care you deserve.

A Slipcover For Every Season

by

Adam Peters

Slipcovers make decorating a living room – or any other room – easy. With a vast array of fabrics and designs available, it just makes sense to protect your furniture with slipcovers.

If you’ve spent several hundred dollars for a matching set of furniture for your living room (otherwise known as a suite, and consisting of two chairs and a couch), the last thing you want is for one of those three items to become stained by drink, food, or pet accidents.

The logical thing to do is put slipcovers on them.

Slipcovers of the past – made from plastic or vinyl – are definitely in the past! These days, slipcovers come in a vast variety of designs and colors, as well as fabrics, so that you are sure to find something you like. So, you’ll be able to protect your suite with these slipcovers, maintaining that matching upholstery look, while the overall design of the furniture matches as well.

What kind of slipcovers should you get?

Well, that depends entirely on how much use your living room suite will have to bear. If you have a lot of visitors who use the living room, or kids that spend a lot of time jumping up from the chair or couch, you’ll want a sturdier fabric than if the room is used in a sedate manner.

Fabrics

Fitted slipcovers come in a vast array of fabrics. Cotton, denim, damask and leather are only a few of the choices. Visit your local home furnishing stores to see and feel these fabrics in person, but if you don’t see anything you like don’t hesitate to surf the web to see what’s available.

Colors and Patterns

Slipcovers are so popular that there are a great many colors and patterns available. So much so that it’s highly doubtful that you won’t be able to find something you like. Again, if you don’t see anything you like in your local stores (and you should always support your local stores if possible) then surf the web, as you’re sure to find something.

Color and pattern are important considerations, of course, as you want them to blend in with the decor in your living room.

Why slipcovers

You may be asking yourself why, if you just purchased a brand new suite because you liked the pattern and color of the fabric, you should cover it up. Well, you might be able to get that fabric in a slipcover as well, so you’ll just be putting an extra layer on those pieces of furniture!

It’s not necessary to put your slipcovers on your new suite and leave them there. Slipcovers are made to be removable, after all. Use them only at certain times – when you’re having a party, for example, and take them off when done. In that way you’ll protect your new furniture and keep it safe for a long time to come.

Adam Peters is the editor of many articles on sofas published at http://www.home-decorating-reviews.com . A website with tips on

slipcover furniture

, amongst many related topics.

Article Source:

eArticlesOnline.com

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