What are the cost drivers for custom aluminum extrusions?

Major cost factors include:

1. Die Cost (NRE): A one-time cost for designing and manufacturing the extrusion die. Complexity (hollows, thin walls, tolerances) drives this cost.
2. Alloy: Standard alloys (6063, 6061) are cheaper than specialty alloys (e.g., 7075).
3. Volume: Higher volumes amortize the die cost and reduce per-unit cost due to more efficient production runs.
4. Profile Weight per Meter: More aluminum used = higher material cost.
5. Tolerances: Tighter tolerances increase die complexity and production scrap rate.
6. Temper: T6 treatment is more expensive than T5.
7. Post-Processing: Cutting, machining, anodizing, powder coating, and packaging all add cost.
8. Order Quantity: Minimum order quantities (MOQs) apply.