The vast number of choices available when it comes to extruded aluminum alloys can make the process of choosing the best one a little complex at times. Aluminum extrusions come in various forms and understanding the needs of your application will help ensure you select the optimal material. By comparing two of the most commonly used alloys for extrusions in the aluminum alloy family – 6063 aluminum and 6061 aluminum can help in making the right choice. At Howard Precision Metals, we are your source for exceptional quality aluminum extrusions stock that are ideal to fulfil a range of industrial applications.
Aluminum and its various alloys constitute some of the most adaptable and versatile materials available on the market. Let’s look below at what aluminum extrusions are and then briefly cover the 6063 and 6061 aluminum extrusions.
What are Aluminum Extrusions?
A metal that has been extruded, has been formed into a pre-determined shape according to the cross-sectional profile of the die used. With this method, the number of finished forms possible is virtually endless. The extrusion process not only allows you to create numerous kinds of shapes, but it can also create a piece stronger than aluminum shapes made in other ways.
6063 Alloy for Aluminum Extrusions
6063 aluminum is primarily alloyed with silicon and magnesium, in addition to trace quantities of copper, iron, chromium, manganese, and zinc. It has solid mechanical properties and is both weldable and heat treatable. These characteristics have made it the most popular extruded aluminum alloy for thin wall, and architectural applications. A major reason for the popularity of 6063 is its ease of extrudability and anodizing responsiveness. It also produces a great surface finish.
When 6063 is welded, often through tungsten inert gas welding, it often loses as much as 30% of its strength. However, heat treating can restore a great percentage of that strength. This aluminum alloy is normally of medium strength compared to other aluminum alloys and provides fair machinability, good corrosion resistance, and good workability.
Applications that are visually and cosmetically sensitive are good candidates for 6063 aluminum extrusions due to the alloy’s excellent ability to produce exceptional quality surface finishes. This aluminum alloys accepts acid etching to produce a matte appearance. It also polishes nicely, yielding an exceptionally reflective characteristic that may be enhanced through bright dip anodization.
6063 aluminum extrusions stock may be found in various architectural applications, including roofs, window frames, sign frames, door frames, furniture, tubing, and pipes. Additional elements that incorporate 6063 include corners, angles, premium casework, trim, and face nosing. It is also used for automotive applications such as ornamental trim components, and luggage rack roof rails.
6061 Alloy for Aluminum Extrusions
6061 aluminum, which is supplied as 6061 aluminum plate and extruded aluminum other shapes, is a precipitation-hardened grade that is alloyed most of the time with magnesium and silicon, in addition to chromium, iron, titanium, zinc, and copper. The alloy is often subjected to heat treatment that enhances it grain structure and resulting durability and strength. This alloy is known for its corrosion resistance, weldability, and other mechanical properties, making it a close second only to 6063 for use is extruded aluminum applications.
When material strength is of primary concern,6061 manifold quality extruded bar, or 6061 aluminum plate are a good choice. For this reason, 6061 is used for so many commonly used items and components, including automobiles, construction elements, motorcycles, bicycle frames, camera lenses, and firearms. It is also the major alloy used in the design of hydraulic manifolds and aircraft parts.
Comparing 6063 to 6061 Aluminum Extrusions
Aluminum 6063 and 6061 cover most of the aluminum extrusions used for various applications. However, there is a difference between the two alloys and how they relate to the extrusion process. Aluminum 6063 is somewhat more ideal for the extrusion process, but 6061 is typically stronger. So, if strength is the determining factor for an application, 6061 may be the optimal choice between the two.
On the other hand, when it comes to workability, corrosion resistance, and surface quality, 6063 is the better options. Aluminum alloy 6061 is also more machinable than 6063, but both alloys are weldable. If there is a question or any uncertainty about the better option between 6063 and 6061 aluminum extrusions, a seasoned metal supplier can provide advice based on years of experience working with aluminum extrusions.
Each alloy is suited more for certain applications and less for others based on each alloy’s various characteristics. Selecting the right material requires a proper evaluation of the application and project and the specific material properties and performance characteristics that suit it better. As indicated above, 6063 and 6061 aluminum alloys possess similar chemical compositions, but possess some different qualities.
If you need aluminum extrusions made from 6063, 6061, or another aluminum alloy, we are your source for a wide range of aluminum extrusions stock to meet the requirements of your industry applications. Call our team at Howard Precision Metals today at 800.444.0311 or request a quote through our convenient online form to learn how we can serve your aluminum extrusion needs.
