Gulf Extrusions Co, one of the largest aluminium extrusion plants in the Gulf region, has expressed concerns about the quality of aluminium profiles in the GCC, following independent tests that showed various samples from external manufacturers had failed to conform to requisite Aluminium Association (AA) alloy specifications. Results of the tests carried out on 8 profiles, showed that they failed to conform to AA standards, with each individual sample falling below the required level on multiple counts.
Robert Holtkamp, Director of Sales and Marketing, Gulf Extrusion, said, "The results of the tests have been extremely disturbing, as none of the profiles tested could fully meet the prescribed AA standards. We are concerned that below-par extrusions are being used in various building projects in the UAE, which is particularly worrying as the country is presently witnessing a construction boom."
"Generally, "6063 öööAlloy” is the standard alloy chosen for architecture application. The alloy combines various elements to yield the definitive extrusion for case applications, and is mainly preferred for its unique characteristic of corrosion resistance. The absence of precise control of impurity levels and the ratio between alloying elements within their limits could promote intergranular corrosion," added Holtkamp.
"Chemical composition limits of an alloy as well as its impurity levels have significant impact on the final product and its application. Therefore, quality compliance should be strictly enforced and efforts made to ensure extrusions meet AA standards," added Holtkamp.
Gulf Extrusions is part of the Al Ghurair Group of Companies and is one of the largest extrusion plants in the region with over 25 years' history of top-quality production. The company's facility located at Jebel Ali produces a range of over 7,000 profiles, varying from architectural sections to components for household items, air-conditioning grills and customised products. The export markets for Gulf Extrusions products include South East Asia, other GCC countries, Europe and Canada.
Aluminium Association is the trade association for producers of primary aluminium, recyclers and semi-fabricated aluminium products, as well as suppliers to the industry. The Association provides leadership to the industry through its programmes and services which aim to enhance aluminium’s position in a world of proliferating materials, increase its use as the 'material of choice,' remove impediments to its fullest use, and assist in achieving the industry's environmental, societal, and economic objectives.
© 2005 Al Bawaba (www.albawaba.com)
