Aluminum Extruded Products Market Trends

Growth Drivers

• Global EV production rise: The rise in global EV production is one key growth driver that has intensified the need for high precision extruded profiles. In April 2023, Gloria Aluminum increased EV enclosure production to accommodate thermal management and safety needs. Lightweight aluminum helps to reduce vehicle mass and increases efficiency and range. Consistent extrudability and corrosion resistance are required for battery enclosures and structural components. The large-format profile investments are being driven by the EV boom globally. OEM specifications are catered to suppliers and receive higher recurring contracts. This further enhances extrusion’s status as a critical component of future mobility platforms. 

• Renewable energy infrastructure surges: Another major driver for aluminum extruded products is the surge in renewable energy infrastructure. In March of 2023, Array Technologies expanded its partnership with EAC to scale local extrusion of solar systems in the U.S., where using recycled aluminum in solar frames lowers lifecycle emissions while retaining strength. As climate targets become binding, countries are looking to use durable and modular construction materials. Due to its lightweight and corrosion resistance, aluminum is well-suited for PV racking, wind turbine frames, and substation structures. Energy transitions are expected to accelerate, and this demand tailwind is expected to continue through 2037. 

• Modernization of construction and real estate: The third key growth factor is construction and real estate modernization. In April 2024, Capral Aluminium launched its VOC-minimizing CUBE Plus powder coating line in Australia. Now, developers who are looking to build ESG-compliant buildings are drawn to green-certified profiles. Extrusions are increasingly being mandated in facades, curtain walls, and cladding systems as these projects become more urban. Aluminum is flexible in shaping, and design-grade finishing adds aesthetic and functional value. Procurement strategies are being influenced by regulatory focus on low-carbon building materials. As a result, extruded aluminum is seen as a preferred option for next-generation construction solutions. 

Challenges

• Regulatory fragmentation across markets: Another challenge is regulatory fragmentation across markets, making compliance for global suppliers difficult. The Aluminum Association in the U.S. requested adherence to ASTM B308/B308M-02 for structural profiles in April 2024. In order to remain competitive, suppliers have to align with local codes, which is increasing certification costs. However, these discrepancies result in longer time-to-market and more operational complexity. Although policymakers are pushing for regional harmonization, there are gaps across Asia, Europe, and North America. 

• Production processes with high levels of energy consumption: The production processes are becoming increasingly energy-intensive owing to the growing demand for carbon neutrality. Smelters and extrusion plants are in the process of converting to renewable power. Smaller players, on the other hand, find it difficult to adjust to new energy benchmarks and risk losing market share. However, the cost of transitioning to cleaner energy sources can also be a barrier for these smaller enterprises. This is anticipated to result in more consolidation in the aluminum extrusion market.