Secat strengthens small-scale production & testing with new aluminium extrusion press in Nicholasville

Secat, Inc., a metallurgical research laboratory specialising in aluminium product and process technologies, has expanded its capabilities by adding a new aluminium extrusion press at its Nicholasville Pilot Lab in Kentucky.

Image Soure : Secat, Inc.

This new equipment enhances Secat’s ability to conduct testing, development, and small-scale production, offering improved precision and flexibility in extrusion processes. The press, generously donated by a manufacturer of equipment for extrusion billet and rolling slab production, will be shipped and installed at the Nicholasville facility.

The Alubin extrusion press is a 600-ton press with a 4-inch container, occupying approximately 1,000 sq ft of space in Secat’s lab. The line is equipped with a run-out table, stretcher, saw, and billet heater, die cleaner and pre-heat oven. Secat’s pilot facility is capable of direct-chill casting 4-inch diameter billets with custom alloy compositions for use in the extrusion press.

“This new extrusion press marks a significant enhancement to our pilot lab. We’re grateful [for the donation] and are excited to better serve the evolving needs of the metals industry,” said Nick Nanninga, general manager at Secat.

Scheduled to be operational by early 2025, the press will significantly enhance Secat’s ability to provide advanced material processing solutions and optimise performance. It will support alloy and process development and the production of custom alloy bars and wires for additive manufacturing applications. Additionally, the press will offer valuable training opportunities as part of Secat’s Certificate in Aluminum Metallurgy Program.