Richardson Metals, Inc. operates as a custom manufacturer specializing in ultra-precision aluminum extrusions and comprehensive machining services. For over 44 years, our facility has delivered custom aluminum tubes and complex extruded aluminum hollow profiles to the aerospace, medical, and electronics sectors. We are able to provide aluminum hollow extrusions with tight tolerances down to ±0.001in. and dimensions that fit within a 4.0 in. circumscribed diameter.

Below, learn more about our specialized aluminum hollow extrusions, our aluminum round tube extrusion capabilities, and how we maintain tight tolerances with aluminum tube extrusions.

Hollow Extrusion Capabilities & Tolerances

Hollow extrusions represent the most die-intensive profile type in the manufacturing industry. Our Colorado Springs facility actively handles these challenging geometries, specifically supporting design engineers and procurement managers who need to translate complex CAD concepts into production-ready components. We meet strict tolerances and exact specifications through clear process controls at every stage, from raw material inspection to outgoing packaging inspection.

Whether your application requires aluminum round tube extrusions or a custom multi-void aluminum tube extrusion, our equipment executes each design seamlessly. We also specialize in aluminum hollow section extrusions for components featuring internal webs, slotted cable management tracks, and integrated heat sink fins. Our team reviews customer drawings to identify potential die issues before cutting any tooling and to eliminate the need for redesigns later on.

Alloys & Wall Thickness Options

Material selection directly affects structural strength, thermal stability, and downstream cosmetic processing. At Richardson Metals, we can help guide alloy selection based on the application and operating environment. We frequently extrude aluminum alloys such as:

  • 6063. We specify this aluminum material for thin-wall profiles and applications requiring a superior surface finish. This grade can maintain dimensional stability during cooling and responds well to clear or color anodizing.
  • 6061. We recommend this alloy for structural applications where ultimate yield strength is of high importance. It offers high durability for heavy-duty frames and mechanical assemblies.

Our absolute minimum wall thickness capability extends down to 0.020 in.. Achieving these ultra-thin extrusions requires die design expertise and careful process control to prevent section distortion during rapid cooling. This capability differentiates our facility from high-volume extruders who may only quote thicker, simpler geometries.

Applications Across Industries

Engineers across demanding sectors rely on our components to balance structural integrity with overall weight reduction. We can work to meet unique or challenging requirements for industries such as:

  • Aerospace and defense. Custom aluminum tubes can be used for lightweight aircraft interiors and UAV chassis components.
  • Telecommunications. Aluminum hollow extrusions can be utilized for rugged outdoor conduit profiles and antenna mounts.
  • Medical devices. Manufacturers rely on custom aluminum tube extrusion services for devices like surgical tool frames and sterilization-compatible diagnostic enclosures.
  • Electronics. Engineers can specify aluminum hollow-section extrusion components that serve as heat-dissipation tubes in high-power systems.
  • Firearms. Defense contractors depend on extruded aluminum hollow profiles for complex, tight-tolerance handguards.
  • Construction. Industrial builders can obtain aluminum round tube extrusions for architectural framing and modular structural assemblies.

Why Work With Richardson Metals?

Procurement teams actively seek reliable supply chain partners capable of balancing cost, precision, and delivery speed. Unlike large-scale extrusion providers, Richardson Metals specializes in small-part aluminum hollow extrusions fitting within a 4-inch circle. We deliver ultra-precision custom aluminum tubes and intricate extruded aluminum hollow profiles without demanding prohibitive minimum order quantities. This manufacturing flexibility allows us to support initial prototype development and short production runs equally.

Lead times average just two to four weeks, and we actively execute Just-In-Time (JIT) delivery for repeat volume orders. Our sister company, Accudyne Corporation, executes 3-axis and 4-axis CNC milling, drilling, and tapping to further streamline your supply chain. We maintain strict RoHS and REACH compliance and hold conflict minerals statements, and we remain active members of the PMPA and the Aluminum Extrusions Council.

Contact Richardson Metals to Learn More

If your next project requires a tight-tolerance custom aluminum tube extrusion, a thin-wall aluminum round tube extrusion, or a highly complex aluminum hollow section extrusion, our engineering team is ready to deliver exacting results.

Request a quote today to submit your files and initiate your next production run.