Aluminum Extrusions

[wchowe]

I have a 6" OD x 1" wall x 95" lg aluminum (6061) tube that is used as part of our product. I am getting the tube in with a good deal of defects in the ID. There are axial grooves from the forming mandrel but also some craters roughly 1/2" to 1" in diameter. I desire a smooth bore, but do not want to bore such a long length. Is there an alternate mfg process that I can get from the mill to provide a smooth bore? What is the difference between "Extruded" and " Seamless" ( as they apply to tubing)?
Thanks, Bill

 

[Goahead]

Extruded and Seamless are the same, as opposed to welded tube. If you get such large defects, then the product is not up to quality. Did you talk to the manufacturer?
If you write a stricter specification, you will not be able to get the tubes? Also axial grooves should not be there
unless the mandrel is in poor shape.
I do not think that you should accept anything less than the surface quality that you need.

http://www.welding-advisers.com/

 

[lomaglio]

You might want to take a serious look at seamless aluminum tube in that size although I think if you check the manufacturing standards, your description would not be acceptable by most vendors. Have you challenged the vendor or other souces if you want to stay with extrusion?
I have seen better in that size.
Good luck