Soft Demand Reduces Orders for Large Aluminum Extrusion Press

SHANGHAI, Oct. 10 (SMM) – Downstream demand for aluminum extrusion failed to improve notably in traditionally high-demand September and October. Operating rates remain low at aluminum extrusion producers and orders for large aluminum extrusion press are especially disappointing.

Large aluminum extrusion press is generally used in industrial aluminum extrusion production.

SMM’s data shows that operating rates at domestic aluminum extrusion producers rebounded to 63% in September. Producers of aluminum extrusion for construction use reported operating rates at 64%, while those for industrial use at 55%, up 6% MoM. Poor orders resulted in low operating rates at producers of industrial aluminum extrusion.

Small and medium aluminum extrusion presses are mainly used for producing radiators, solar energy, machinery and auto components, while large ones are largely used to manufacture specific aluminum semis like rail car-bodies and aluminum semis for electric use. Demand for these products has faded as investment in rail transportation and power grid has cooled recently, depressing orders for large aluminum extrusion presses.