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In the dynamic realm of aerospace engineering, the choice of materials plays a pivotal role in achieving optimal performance. One such material that has garnered significant attention is 6061-T651 aluminum. Renowned for its high strength, strong corrosion resistance, and excellent weldability, this aerospace-grade aluminum alloy has become a cornerstone in various aerospace applications. At Howard Precision Metals, we are your premier source for 6061-T651 aluminum plates to meet your aerospace application needs.

6061-T651 Key Characteristics

High Strength: 6061-T651 aluminum possesses a remarkable tensile strength of 310 MPa and a yield strength of 276 MPa, making it a robust material for applications involving high stresses.

Weldability: Recognized for its excellent weldability, this alloy is a preferred option for applications that require seamless joining or welding processes.

Corrosion Resistance: With solid corrosion resistance, 6061-T651 aluminum plates function with resilience in harsh environmental conditions, reflecting their durability over time.

Machinability: The superior machinability of 6061-T651 enables easy shaping and the production of complex designs, making it a adaptable choice for aerospace components.

Aerospace Applications

Aircraft Structures

6061-T651 aluminum plays a key role in the construction of aircraft structures. Its high strength-to-weight ratio is particularly beneficial, providing structural integrity while falling within stringent weight limitations.

Fuselage Frames

As the core structure of an aircraft, the fuselage requires materials that can withstand varying stress levels. 6061-T651 aluminum plates are an effective choice for building fuselage frames due to the optimal balance they possess between weight and strength.

Wing Skins and Spars

In the aerospace industry, where every ounce matters, 6061-T651 finds application in the manufacture of spars and wing skins. Due to its significant strength and lightweight nature, it is highly viable as a contributor to the efficient functioning of aircraft wings.

Helicopter Rotor Hubs

Helicopter rotor hubs require materials having exceptional durability and strength. 6061-T651, with its high tensile strength, is key in ensuring the consistency of these crucial components.

Missile Components

In the realm of aerospace and defense, reliability and precision are of premier importance. 6061-T651 aluminum finds application in the manufacture of missile components, with its corrosion resistance and high strength being critical factors that benefit this application.

Structural Components

Across various aerospace applications, structural components such as braces, beams, and connectors benefit from the mechanical capabilities of 6061-T651 aluminum plates. The capacity of this alloy to withstand stress makes it a preferred option for preserving structural integrity.

What Sets 6061-T651 Aluminum Apart?

Exceptional Strength and Durability

The 6061-T651 extruded aluminum alloy is known for its strength, comparable to many steels. With a yield strength of 40,000 psi and a tensile strength of 45,000 psi, it proves suitable for structural applications in the aerospace industry.

Corrosion Resistance

Corrosion can be a formidable opponent in aerospace environments. 6061-T651 aluminum excels in this regard, developing a protective oxide layer on its surface that ensures long-term service even in marine or harsh outdoor settings.

Machinability

6061-T651 aluminum plates offer the significant advantage of easy machining, which allows for smoother drilling, cutting, and forming into various shapes. This property is especially beneficial for manufacturers in the automotive, aerospace, and consumer electronics sectors.

Weldability

6061-T651 aluminum lends itself well to various welding methods, including MIG and TIG welding. Proper filler material selection and preparation are vital for successful welds, and post-weld heat treatment can restore the strength of the material.

Heat Treatment

The T6 tempering process which involves solution heat treatment, aging, and quenching significantly increases the hardness, strength, hardness, and deformation resistance of the alloy. This makes 6061-T651 aluminum a strong choice for aerospace applications.

Formability

6061 aluminum plate is easily formed, drilled, and bent, allowing for the production of various spacecraft structures and shapes.

Joining Capabilities: This alloy is easily joined utilizing various welding methods, enhancing the sealing performance of aerospace spacecraft.

Reduced Weight: With lower density compared to many other metals, 6061 aluminum plate contributes to reducing the weight of spacecraft, a critical factor in aerospace design.

Good Electrical Conductivity: Possessing good electrical conductivity, 6061-T651 aluminum finds application in aircraft conductive equipment.

Varied Forms for Diverse Aerospace Needs

6061-T651 Aluminum Sheet Plate

This is the stress-release version of T6 temper, offering enhanced stress corrosion resistance. It is commonly used for aerospace fuel tanks, airframe casings, and hydraulic systems.

6061-T6 Aluminum Sheet Plate

This is the most common temper, featuring hardness and high strength. It is utilized in wings, fuselage structures, landing gears, engine components, and parts that require rigidity and high strength.

6061-O Aluminum Sheet Plate

This is the annealed temper with lower strength and hardness. It is commonly used for lightweight aerospace internal components, assemblies, and bulkheads.

6061-T4 Aluminum Sheet Plate

This is the heat-treated temper with moderate hardness and strength. It is ideal for aerospace applications that require moderate strength, such as cabin components and containers.

The aerospace industry’s demanding requirements find a reliable solution in 6061-T651 aluminum plates. Their exceptional strength, solid corrosion resistance, weldability, and machinability, make them a versatile choice for a wide array of applications. As aerospace technology continues to advance, the significance of materials such as 6061-T651 aluminum else ensure performance, reliability, and efficiency.

Are you ready to explore the benefits of 6061-T651 aluminum for your aerospace applications? Give us a call today at 866.602.3788 or request a quote through our website. Our team is dedicated to providing you with the aluminum alloys that help you achieve optimum quality for your aerospace component needs.

In the realm of precision machining and tooling, aluminum cast tool & jig plate stands out as a versatile and reliable choice. Commonly known by trade names such as MIC 6, ATP-5, Alca 5, and K-100S, these plates, particularly MIC 6, ATP-5, and Alca 5, offer a unique set of advantages in various applications. Let’s look into the distinctive features and benefits that make cast aluminum tool and aluminum jig plate the preferred option for numerous industries.

Types of Aluminum Cast Tool & Jig Plate

Within the realm of aluminum cast tool and jig plates, various manufacturers tout their products as the epitome of quality and precision. Formerly Alcoa, Arconic specializes in MIC 6® cast tool and jig plate, while Alpase, based in California, is known for its K-100S® cast aluminum tooling plate. Precision Cast Plate (PCP) in Canada proudly produces Alca 5® precision cast plate, and across the Atlantic in Germany, Bikar offers Formodal®, which they describe as “precision milled cast plates.” Adding to the mix, Vista Metals provides ATP-5 precision tooling plate. Despite differences in names and production mills, these products feature more similarities than distinctions.

In the production of these cast tool and jig plates, each manufacturer employs similar methodologies with the goal of mitigating internal stresses within the aluminum plates. The overarching objective is to achieve significant internal stability, minimizing any potential movement during machining. Consistency is achieved as each of these CT&J products is subjected to machining in order to attain a flat surface finish of 32 micro-inches or better on both the top and bottom surfaces. Further protecting this finish, every mill applies a protective PVC coating to each surface, ensuring quality of the product is retained during transport to distributors. In a market saturated with diverse cast aluminum plate products, pinpointing the ideal fit and become a challenge due to the numerous options available.

Precision Machining and Stability

One of the standout features of aluminum cast tool & jig plate is its composition consisting of fine-grain aluminum alloy, which ensures internal stability. This characteristic minimizes movement during machining operations, enabling outcomes that are accurate and precise. Machined to a surface finish equal to 32 micro-inches or better on both sides, these plates are known for their dimensional stability and flat surfaces.

Lightweight and Corrosion Resistance

The lightweight nature of aluminum tool and jig plates, approximately one-third the weight of steel plates, provides a significant advantage in terms of the ease of handling operations and installation. This characteristic reduces the requirement for heavy equipment, minimizing the load required on machinery components. In addition, aluminum’s inherent resistance to corrosion eliminates the need for protective treatments, making it a low maintenance, durable option.

Superior Dimensional Control and Tolerance

Often referred to as CT&J Plate, these machined products provide flatness and tight dimensional control, making them ideal for applications that require precision. Through the use of proper aluminum machining methods, tolerances in the thousandths can be achieved and maintained. The CT&J plate is the top choice when strict dimensional control and flatness tolerances are of primary importance, ensuring the rescission and reliability required in critical applications.

Versatility in Applications

Cast Aluminum Tool & Jig Plate finds its usefulness in a wide array of applications, including welding fixtures, assembly jigs and fixtures, templates, drill jigs, hydro press form blocks, index tables, vacuum chucks, and more. Its usage covers multiple industries, including aerospace, medical instrumentation, plastics, and automotive, attesting to its reliability and versatility.

Types of Aluminum Tooling and Jig Plate

There are three main types of aluminum tooling and jig plate: casted aluminum tooling plate, molded aluminum tooling plate, and rolled aluminum tooling plate. Each type of CT&J plate caters to specific needs based on its properties and manufacturing process.

Cast Aluminum Tooling Plate: Continuous casting and thermal stress relief characterize cast aluminum tooling plates. With maximum stability and the best thickness tolerance, these plates, often available in the thickness range of 6mm to 50mm, are well-suited for precision applications that require dimensional accuracy.

Molded Aluminum Tooling Plate: Molded aluminum tooling plates, typically rolled, provide a balance between service life and stability. While not possessing the same stability as cast tooling plates, they are utilized with highly processed components, particularly injection molds. This type is commonly employed in the 100 mm to 250 mm thickness range.

Rolled Aluminum Tooling Plate: Made from 5000 series alloys, rolled aluminum tooling plates are subjected to annealing to enhance ductility. Precision machining produces dimensions having minimum tolerances. This type of aluminum tooling plate is often chosen for strength applications in engineering, manufacturing, and construction.

Howard Precision Metals: Your Trusted Partner

For over 90 years, Howard Precision Metals has been a stalwart in the aluminum service center business, delivering state-of-the-art solutions to meet various aluminum alloy product needs. Recognized for tight cutting tolerances and a dedication to excellence, our offerings include the highly effective MIC-6 aluminum cast tool & jig plate. You can trust our team to provide you with the best aluminum alloy product for your application every time.

Are you ready to experience the advantages of cast aluminum tooling plate & jig plate for your duster application? Give us a call today at 866.602.3788 or request a quote through our website. Discover how we can enhance your project results with exceptional aluminum solutions.

Aluminum extrusions have progressed into indispensable components across a multitude of applications, spanning from industrial machinery to consumer electronics. Their widespread use is attributed to the combination of lightweight properties, high strength, and corrosion resistance. The success of a custom extruded aluminum design, however, extends beyond mere functionality. It hinges on the careful selection of the appropriate aluminum extrusion alloy. Each aluminum grade brings distinct properties to the table, and the art lies in choosing the right alloy to ensure your extrusion design can meet the specific demands of your application.

Aluminum Alloy Categories and Optimal Series for Square Bar Extrusions

Aluminum grades are systematically categorized into series, ranging from 1xxx to 7xxx. When it comes to square bar custom extruded aluminum, the 1xxx and 6xxx series emerge as the most fitting alloy categories. The 1xxx series, exemplified by 1050 Aluminum, is non-heat-treatable, offering superb workability and corrosion resistance.

On the flip side, the 6xxx series introduces alloys such as 6005A, 6061, and 6063, each catering to diverse needs. 6005A, with its exceptional extrudability and medium strength, caters specifically to open or hollow extrusion designs. 6061, serving as a flexible substitute for low carbon steel, delivers medium to high strength, exceptional weldability, and heat-treatability, making it appropriate for both solid and hollow extrusions. In the meantime, 6063 stands out as the prime choice for intricate geometries or thin-walled designs, ensuring cost-efficiency and providing superior surface finishes.

Delving into Specific Alloy Characteristics and Tempers

A deeper exploration of specific alloy characteristics reveals nuances that significantly impact the decision-making process. As an example, 6351 Aluminum offers higher strength than 6061, coupled with impressive resistance to corrosion and impact. 6463 Aluminum is distinguished for its bright, high-quality, mirror-like finishes, medium strength, and exceptional extrudability, making it particularly fitting for decorative applications. At the same time, 6360 Aluminum earns recognition for its high quality, bright finishes, machinability, and solid corrosion resistance, making it the alloy of choice for complex shapes.

Understanding aluminum alloy tempers is equally vital in optimizing the strength of square bar extruded aluminum shapes. The tempering process, encompassing treatments such as T1, T2, T3, T4, T51, T6, and T61, plays a key role in determining the specific properties of the aluminum alloy. Whether it involves artificial aging, natural aging, or a combination of both, choosing the optimal temper enhances the overall performance of the extrusion, ensuring it fulfills the desired specifications of your application.

Factors Guiding Alloy Selection and Comprehensive Design Insights

There are multiple factors involved when it comes to the decision-making process for the selection of the right aluminum extrusion alloy for square bar applications. Pivotal steps include having an all-inclusive understanding of the various aluminum alloys, considering the complexity of the extrusion process, and considering the specific properties the end product requires.

The selection process is further refined with formability and strength considerations, surface finish requirements, and cost evaluations. For example, if your product requires high levels of toughness and strength, alloys from the 7000 series may be optimal. On the other hand, if resistance to corrosion and lightweight characteristics take precedence, alloys from the 5000 series might be the best choice.

In addition to alloy considerations, design factors for extruded aluminum shapes such as wall shape complexity, thickness, and end-use (structural or non-structural) play a key role. Extrusions with thin walls and intricate geometries may necessitate the use of certain aluminum alloys such as 6360 or 6063 to ensure minimal distortion and uniform shapes. The prerequisites for strength, finishing requirements, and potential use as a heat sink should also impact the selection of the alloy.

Howard Precision Metals’ Commitment to Excellence

At Howard Precision Metals, our dedication to excellence is reflected in our aluminum square bar inventory, which includes sizes from .25″ to 6.0″ square. Customized to meet strict quality specifications, our aluminum square bars are designed to meet the requirements of various industries, including medical, construction, aerospace, and automotive. Should you require help in sourcing aluminum square bars or have inquiries about alloys, our experienced sales professionals are ready to answer your questions guide you through the process.

The versatility of aluminum extrusions has propelled them into essential roles across consumer electronics and industrial machinery applications due to their lightweight nature, high strength and resistance to corrosion. The core of successful extrusion design lies in a scrupulous aluminum alloy selection, evaluating the distinct properties of each grade. The 1xxx and 6xxx series emerge as optimal choices for square bar custom extruded aluminum, offering a spectrum of alloys that address various application needs. Digging deeper into specific alloy tempers, characteristics, and design factors further refines the selection process.

Are you eager to explore the optimal aluminum extrusion alloy for your square bar applications? Call our team today at 866.602.3788 or request a quote on our website to begin the process. We are dedicated to providing you with the knowledge and expertise necessary to make informed decisions for your extrusion needs.

If you’re looking for minimal setup time, enhanced machinability, and consistency, manifold bar is your premier option. Manufactured with precision and available in sizes ranging from .875″ square to larger sized 6.0″ x 8.0″ rectangles, these bars make up the beefier portion of our inventory at Howard Precision Metals. What sets a bar apart as a manifold quality extruded bar is the careful compliance to straightness, twist, and flatness tolerances that exceed the standards established by the Aluminum Association.

Manufactured through extrusion, the manifold quality aluminum bar possesses distinctive features and heightened dimensional tolerances. These exceptional attributes make it the top choice for a variety of applications, and in particular those involving hydraulic cylinders.

Exceeding Tolerances for Superior Quality

For a bar to obtain the valued designation of “manifold quality,” it must surpass Aluminum Association tolerances in flatness, straightness, and twist. Although you can find the aluminum bars of manifold quality that have plus or minus dimensional tolerances, at Howard Precision Metals, we generally offer them exclusively as extruded to the plus side.

Manifold Quality Aluminum Bars: Sourcing Excellence

Dual Domestic Mill Sources: At Howard Precision Metals, we primarily stock two domestic mill sources for manifold quality aluminum bars. Firstly, we carry Hydro’s ACC-U-BAR™ products, a trademarked name equivalent with manifold quality bar. In addition, we stock Kaiser’s non-trademarked manifold quality bar. Both manifold bars and ACC-U-BAR™, with their stringent tolerances, may be used for a variety of industrial applications.

ACC-U-BAR™

In the world of machining, ACC-U-BAR™ is a precisely manufactured, extruded aluminum product designed specifically for use in high-speed machining applications. Setting the premier standard in the industry, ACC-U-BAR™ excels above its counterparts with its extraordinarily tight tolerances, enhanced minimum mechanical properties, and improved straightness. Referred to as “manifold quality” bar by some, Kaiser specifies its equivalent as Manifold Bar, highlighting the exceptional advantage it affords.

Originally developed to serve various requirements in the fluid power industry, Hydro (formerly Sapa) was faced with the challenge to create a product having guaranteed plus-side dimensional tolerances, more consistent machinability, and enhanced mechanical properties. The result they produced was ACC-U-BAR™, an industry benchmark product that has become a go-to option for manifold block applications. Hydro’s dedication to ongoing product refinement ensures that ACC-U-BAR™ remains at the helm of precision extruded aluminum products.

At Howard Precision Metals, we offer ACC-U-BAR™ in array of rectangular and standard square sizes. This versatile product not only fulfills the rigorous requirements of high-speed machining but does so affordably, making it the premier option for customers seeking quality and precision in their aluminum products.

Kaiser Select Manifold Bar

Introducing KaiserSelect Manifold Bar – a state-of-the-art solution designed to enhance your automatic machining process to new heights. This specialized manifold bar is not your ordinary bar. It is a product that enhances quality, strengthens productivity, and reduces manufacturing costs. It is highly useful for machining complex parts with its tight tolerances, exceptional machining performance, and stringent twist and straightness tolerances.

With its high metal removing rates, the KaiserSelect manifold bar allows for complex machining processes and ensures repeatable and enhanced performance from piece to piece and lot to lot, exceeding the attributes and capabilities of other extruded bar products. This manifold quality extruded bar utilizes an enhanced 6061 alloy that increases both material hardness and mechanical strength. The manufacturing process of this manifold bar involves careful control of critical factors that guarantee its twist-free precision.

Manifold bar is engineered in such a way to ensure a controlled and impeccably straight product. Drilling and boring operations generate compact chips that not only improve machining throughput but also reduce costs and minimize downtime. Manifold bar provides an exceptional combination of quality, cost-effectiveness, and performance that outdoes other extruded aluminum bar products.

Versatility in Applications: The tolerance improvements in manifold bar expand its usefulness in various applications. These precisely-engineered bars are routinely found in pneumatic and hydraulic devices, fixturing devices, machinery, and various other applications where machinability and consistency are of prime importance.

Navigating the Selection: What Type of Aluminum Bar Do You Need?

It is crucial to select the right aluminum bar for your applications. With a manifold quality extruded bar, you have the necessary precision needed for various applications that require exceptionally tight tolerances. Whether you are operating in the engineering, construction, or manufacturing sector, it is important to understand the nuances of manifold bars in order to make informed decisions that help you fulfill the requirements of your project.

Manifold Quality Aluminum Bar: Its Main Purpose

The primary purpose of manifold quality aluminum bar rests in its ability to provide exceptional precision. From its low setup times and reliable consistency, to enhanced machinability, this bar is a key factor in applications where maintaining tight tolerances is vital. The enhanced straightness, flatness, resistance to twist, and straightness of manifold quality bar make it exceptionally valuable in applications where precision is a must.

Trust Howard Precision Metals for Your Precision Needs

At Howard Precision Metals, we are dedicated to providing exceptional quality manifold bar products. The manifold quality extruded bars we offer exemplify reliability and precision, establishing the standard for industries that require nothing less than perfection.

Ensure Precision with Manifold Bar from Howard Precision Metals

Are you ready to benefit from the precision of manifold bars for your applications? Give us a call today at 866.602.3788 or request a quote through our website. We are here as your trusted partner for manifold quality extruded bar designed to meet or exceed your expectations.

In the arena of high-performance metals, 7050 aluminum stands out as a material of exceptional versatility and strength. Whether for aerospace applications or other precision machining requirements, this alloy has become an indispensable feature in various industrial applications. Below, we look into the intricacies of 7050 aluminum alloy, identifying its primary characteristics and examining its various applications.

Composition of 7050 Aluminum

7050 aluminum belongs to the 7xxx series of aluminum alloys and is well-known for its advantageous strength-to-weight ratio. The composition of 7050 aluminum includes zinc as its main alloying element in addition to other elements of smaller percentages. The development of 7050 aluminum was instigated by the need for a high-strength material having excellent resistance to corrosion, making it a key component in various critical applications.

Notable as a vital alloy for aerospace applications, 7050 aluminum alloy stands out as a heat-treatable product. Known for its outstanding stress corrosion cracking resistance, high mechanical strength, and toughness even at temperatures below zero, this alloy is proven to be essential in the aerospace industry. It is specifically tailored for heavy plate applications, including bulkheads, fuselage frames, wing skins, and various structures that comprise aircraft.

Often available in two tempers, T7451 and T7651, 7050 aluminum alloy possesses and electrical conductivity at 40% of copper, reinforcing its adaptability or applications in which conductivity is a key factor. When working with Aluminum 7050, it is important to approach the welding of this metal with appropriate caution, as the welding process may potentially reduce the inherent strength of the alloy.

For an alloy to qualify as 7050 aluminum, it must possess a particular chemical composition as follows: Aluminum at 89%, Zinc at 6.2%, Copper at 2.3%, Magnesium at 2.3%, and Zirconium at 0.12%. These precise proportions ensure that Aluminum 7050 provides the exceptional combination of durability, resistance, and strength required for aerospace industry applications.

Alloy 7050: The Preferred Choice Over 7075 in Aerospace Applications

When it comes to aerospace applications, Alloy 7050 aluminum plates are often the preferred choice, particularly in the 3 to 6 inch thickness range, outdoing the usage of 7075. This preference is attributable to the excellent strength retention offered by 7050 in thicker sections. At Howard Precision Metals, we stock 7050 T7451 aluminum plate (AMS 4050), which provides superior resistance to stress corrosion cracking (SCC) and exceptional exfoliation corrosion resistance, although at somewhat lower levels compared to 7050 T7651 (AMS 4342).

Notably, 7050 T7451 exceeds alloy 7075 in terms of stress corrosion cracking resistance, corrosion resistance, and toughness. A lower sensitivity to quenching, a characteristic not common in many aerospace alloys, gives 7050 the ability to maintain its strength properties exceptionally well in thicker sections. This alloy also exhibits reliable machinability throughout the thickness of heavier gauges, making it distinct from other high-strength aluminum metal counterparts. At Howard Precision Metals, we are your premier and trusted source for 7050 T7451 aluminum plate, providing aerospace solutions that focus on machining consistency, resilience, and strength.

Primary Characteristics of 7050 Aluminum

1. High Strength: The notable characteristic of 7050 aluminum alloy is its exceptional strength. In its T7451 temper, this alloy possesses tensile strength values that exceed many other aluminum alloys. The enhanced strength of this alloy is a result of its unique composition, making it the desirable option for applications that require loadbearing capacity and structural integrity.

2. Superior Corrosion Resistance: In addition to its considerable strength, 7050 aluminum also possesses outstanding corrosion resistance. This characteristic makes it ideally suitable for applications that involve challenging environments, including atmospheric conditions to which aerospace components are commonly exposed. The resilience of this alloy against corrosion ensures its reliability and longevity in demanding operational settings.

3. Machinability and Formability: Despite its high strength, 7050 aluminum alloy maintains reliable machinability. This feature is vital for aerospace and automotive industry applications that require precision machining. The formability of this alloy enhances its versatility, enabling its manufacturers to produce intricate components with ease.

Applications Beyond Aerospace: Exploring the Versatility of 7050 Aluminum

1. Defense Industry: Beyond the aerospace industry, 7050 aluminum also finds application in the defense sector. The high strength properties of this alloy make it ideal for the manufacturing of armored structures, military vehicles, and related equipment, where reliability and durability are extremely important.

2. Sports Equipment: The recreation and sports industry also benefit from the special properties of 7050 aluminum. This alloy is used in the manufacture and fabrication of high-performance sporting equipment such as bicycle frames, where the combination of its lightweight and strength characteristics is required to enable optimal performance.

Choosing Howard Precision Metals for Your 7050 Aluminum Needs

At Howard Precision Metals, we are your premier source for premium 7050 aluminum products. We offer an extensive inventory of aluminum alloy products that includes 7050 T7451 aluminum plate, ensuring you have access to the materials you need for your projects. With a dedication to precision and quality, we work hard to serve as your trusted partner in utilizing the full potential of 7050 aluminum.

Strengthen Your Projects with 7050 Aluminum Alloy

If you are ready to benefit from the versatility and strength of 7050 aluminum for your next project, call our team today at 866.602.3788 or request a quote on our website.

In the world of architecture and construction, material selection plays a key role in determining the longevity and overall success of a project. One such versatile material extensively used in the industry is 6061-T651 aluminum. Well-known for its exceptional properties and wide array of applications, this aluminum alloy has become a preferred choice for construction professionals and architects alike. At Howard Precision Metals, Inc., we are your source for 6061-T651 aluminum alloy designed to meet a wide array of commercial and industrial applications.

Understanding 6061-T651 Aluminum: A Closer Look

Before looking into its applications, let’s examine the characteristics that make 6061-T651 aluminum a premier choice. This alloy is a heat-treated variant of 6061 aluminum, known for its excellent corrosion resistance, strength-to-weight ratio, and machinability. The ‘T651’ temper designation indicates that the material has undergone heat treatment and artificial aging, infused with enhanced durability and strength.

6061-T651 in Detail: Properties and Uses

To understand the significance of 6061-T651 aluminum in construction and architectural applications, it’s vital to grasp its properties. 6061-T651 features a high tensile strength, making it ideal for applications that require reliable structural integrity. Its corrosion resistant characteristic helps ensures its longevity, even in adverse conditions, such as those in industrial or coastal areas.

This adaptable alloy is applicable for structural and other engineering projects, marine vessels, staircase construction, furniture manufacturing, and other uses. The widespread adoption of 6061 aluminum alloys can be attributed to its exceptional strength-to-weight ratio, superior corrosion resistance, and remarkable toughness.

The popularity of our 6061 aluminum plate products, commonly called 6061-T651, is seen in its use for varied purposes, such as the fabrication of structural components, base plates, ramps, aluminum flooring, and stairs. In addition to its durability, 6061 aluminum offers superb machinability, making it ideal for an array of machining applications, and it is also highly suitable for welding applications.

Architectural Marvels with 6061-T651 Aluminum

Architects turn to 6061-T651 aluminum for its unique combination of malleability and strength, allowing them to design durable and visually stunning structures. From complex interior elements to sleek façades, this aluminum alloy provides exceptional design flexibility. Its lightweight characteristic minimizes the load imposed on another structural elements, adding to ease of construction and cost efficiency.

Strength in Design: A key benefit of 6061-T651 aluminum as it relates to architecture is its ability to contribute toward innovative designs. The strength of this alloy enables architects to utilize more complex shapes and design configurations, pushing the envelope of standard or traditional design boundaries.

Durability Beyond Aesthetics: Architectural designs require materials that are not only visually appealing, but will also hold up under the elements over time. The corrosion resistance of 6061-T651 aluminum ensures that buildings reserve their aesthetic appeal for years, keeping the architect’s vision intact and minimizing maintenance costs.

6061-T651 in Construction

In the construction industry, material reliability is exceptionally important. 6061-T651 aluminum, with its durable properties, is commonly used in various construction applications, providing uncompromising strength for dependable performance.

Structural Components: Construction projects often require materials that are able to support heavy loads without losing their structural integrity. 6061 aluminum plate is used extensively to support structural loading conditions. The high strength of 6061-T651, whether in the form of columns, beams, trusses, or panels, helps ensure the stability of various structures.

Machinability and Fabrication Ease: Timelines in the field of construction are crucial, and the ease with which 6061-T651 aluminum can be machined and fabricated adds to project efficiency. The machinability of this alloy allows for rescission cuts and configurations, reducing the effort and time required in the assembly and construction process.

A Material of Choice

For both construction and architectural applications, 6061-T651 aluminum is often one of the main materials of choice, providing the perfect combination of design flexibility, strength, and durability. Whether the need involves the construction of an industrial facility or the sleek silhouette of a modern skyscraper, this alloy plays a significant part in modern day construction projects.

Your Source for 6061-T651 Aluminum

With the unique demands of construction and architectural projects in mind, we acknowledge that our assorted array of clients requires customized solutions for their 6061 T6 aluminum sheet and related requirements. Our extensive experience that spans decades enables us to deliver aluminum products that are ideally suited for the various complexities of architectural and construction applications.

Our dedication to excellence is proven through the significant investments we have made in our custom-built, high-speed aluminum plate saws and a variety of other specialized tools that are essential for achieving consistent, superior results. With our focus exclusively on aluminum, we have fashioned our business operations to fulfill the distinct needs of customers in the architectural and construction industries.

Emphasizing customization and the thorough maintenance of our cutting-edge saws, we reinforce our dedication to excellence through our extensive qualification processes that only involve premier quality mill sources. As a dedicated 100% aluminum distributor equipped with custom equipment, we have the tools and expertise necessary to meet the needs of the most challenging architectural and construction project applications. Whether faced with a complex design specification or requiring advice for your next 6061 aluminum plate project, we are your trusted source for helping you fulfill your architectural or construction vision.

Get 6061-T651 Aluminum for Your Project

Are you ready to ensure the success of your architectural or construction project with the outstanding qualities afforded by 6061-T651 aluminum? Call us today at 866.602.3788 or request a quote through our website to get the process started.

In the complex arenas of aviation and aerospace, reliability and precision are absolutely essential. MIC 6 aluminum, well-known for its unique characteristics, has come to the fore as a key player in these industries, providing superior benefits for diverse applications. At Howard Precision Metals, we offer MIC 6 cast aluminum in various sizes and thickness to meet the needs of your current or next project.

Below, we examine the distinguishing qualities of MIC 6 aluminum and cover why it provides such a significant contribution to the aerospace and aviation sectors.

Understanding MIC 6 Aluminum: Characteristics and Applications

The MIC 6 Advantage: MIC 6, a cast aluminum alloy with a strong reputation for its stability and flatness, also offers the benefits of precision and reliability. This alloy’s micro-structure and low internal stresses make it an effective material choice for applications in which consistency and tight tolerances are of exceptional importance.

The uniqueness of aluminum MIC 6 stems from the specialized alloy composition it possesses and the method by which it is cast and carefully produced to yield high-tolerance, stable plates. Well-known for its considerable stress-relieving properties, Aluminum MIC 6 offers the additional benefits of exceptional machinability and extraordinary accuracy. Moreover, this alloy offers the unique characteristic of being porosity free and contaminant free, giving it greater appeal for applications in which precision and purity are vital.

Wide Range of Applications: From industrial tooling to precision machining, MIC 6 aluminum finds applications across multiple industrial sectors. The stability and versatility of this aluminum alloy make it a material of choice for applications that require exceptional flatness, including fixtures, jigs, and mold plates.

MIC 6 in Aerospace: A Foundation for Optimum Performance

Structural Components: In the aerospace industry, where precision, strength, and weight are critical factors, MIC 6 aluminum plate plays an essential role in the construction of structural components. These plates, known for their superior stability and flatness contribute to the fabrication of fuselage components, wing structures, and other critical parts where precision is crucial for achieving optimal aerodynamics.

Tooling and Fixtures: The stability of MIC 6 cast aluminum makes it a vital material for the production of fixtures and tooling used in aerospace manufacturing. The material’s warping resistance and resistance to dimensional changes when subjected to varying temperatures ensures the accuracy of machining processes, contributing to the production of complex and high-tolerance components.

Enhanced Thermal Efficiency: In the aviation and aerospace industries, MIC 6 aluminum has been proven essential due to its thermal conductivity, a key factor in applications that necessitate efficient heat dissipation. This characteristic makes MIC 6 aluminum an ideal choice for jig plates and tooling within the aerospace sector, where sustaining precise temperature stability is of great importance.

Advanced Protection and Customization for Components: MIC 6 aluminum features an intrinsic anodizing response, providing improved surface protection and customization potential, which meets the needs of various aerospace applications. Its reliable dimensional stability when exposed to varying environmental conditions ensures its consistent performance, making it a dependable material for vital aerospace components and systems. In addition, the seamless weldability of MIC 6 aluminum adds to its versatility, giving aerospace engineers and manufacturers greater latitude in the design and production of aircraft components.

MIC 6 in Aviation: Enhancing Performance and Precision

Engine Components: MIC 6 aluminum is utilized in the fabrication of engine components for aviation applications in which engines operate under extreme conditions. The alloy’s resistance to contraction and expansion along with its stability make it an ideal choice for parts that require reliability and dimensional precision, bolstering the overall safety and efficiency of aircraft engines.

Prototyping and CNC Machining: The machinability of MIC 6 aluminum makes it a preferred material for CNC machining and prototyping applications in the aviation industry. The material features consistent properties that make it ideal for producing intricate designs and performing precise machining, all of which ensures that the end product and prototypes adhere to strict industry standards.

MIC 6: Your Aluminum Alloy When Precision is Paramount

While MIC 6 offers exceptional machinability flatness, and stability, it’s also important to consider factors such availability and cost when considering its use. Despite these considerations, the benefits of MIC 6 often outweigh any potential downsides, particularly in industries and applications in which precision results are of premier importance.

Choose Howard Precision Metals for Your MIC 6 Needs

With a rich history of over 90 years, Howard Precision Metals has developed into a full-fledged, state-of-the-art aluminum service center, operating at the forefront of the industry. With a reputation for supplying precision products, we have garnered recognition from top industry producers.

With a specialization in fulfilling various aluminum alloy product requirements, our team is highly capable of handling complex cutting tolerances, including those which involves MIC-6 aluminum cast tool & jig plate. Our highly skilled team is ready to assist you in securing the aluminum alloy products which are customized and ideal for your specific application.

We understand the critical role MIC 6 plays in the aviation and aerospace industries. Our dedication to delivering top-tier materials, including MIC 6 aluminum plate, ensures your applications benefit from the unique and exceptional characteristics of this alloy.

Reach New Heights with MIC 6 Aluminum

Are you ready to enhance your aerospace and aviation projects with the stability and precision of MIC 6 cast aluminum? Give us a call today at 866.602.3788 or request a quote on our website to learn more.

As a distributor, it is important that our customers have a clear understanding of the product they are receiving and the associated industry tolerances that go with it.   Ensuring that our customers receive high-quality products is essential for maintaining a positive relationship as well as quality reputation, resulting happy customers. One critical aspect of this is ensuring that the products we provide meet the required specifications, including dimensioning and tolerancing.

To ensure that our customers receive products that meet their exact specifications, here are five tips to consider when it comes to dimensioning and tolerancing:

1. Understand the design requirements: Before providing any product to our customer, we make sure together with our customer we have a thorough understanding of their design requirements. The engineering responsibility is that of the customers, but often they do not understand the idiosyncrasies of the extruding process and need a little guidance to the potential pit falls.  This starts with a clear understanding of their desired tolerances and any other specifications that may affect the dimensions of the product.  The more complicated the extrusion design is, the more complicated the tolerance are to understand.  Below is the industry standard tolerances that extrusion mills typically follow.  They are referred to as AA tolerances.  The chart below does not mean that a mill can’t produce tighter, but it should be assumed that if not indicated on the drawing they are quoting standard AA tolerances.  It is the job of the designer to ask for better if needed.

2. Utilize CAD software: Providing the desired shape in a CAD software file like .DWG or .DXF can help ensure that your dimensional measurements are accurate and allow for ease in quoting your finished shape.  Minor recommended changes by the extruder for ease of extruding, can easily be made to an existing drawing with the comparison changes to be discussed as options.  Having a accepted design in a CAD file is especially important for extrusions, which have intricate geometries that can be difficult to measure accurately by hand on the extruded shape.

Double-check measurements: Once you have laid out the measurements, double-check them to make sure they are correct. This will ensure that your products meet the design requirements and specifications you want.

Verify materials: Be sure to understand the differences in extrusion alloys.  Some provide high strength and better machinability but are more difficult to make complex shapes in an extrusion.  Other alloys flow better through complex die designs but are not as high of strength.  It is important to verify that the alloy in your design meets the strength, corrosion, anodizing, and surface requirements of your end part.  Make sure that the material meets these requirements, as well as any industry standards or regulations.

3. Pay attention to surface finish: Often the extruded surface is the finished surface of a part, meaning there is no machining being done to that surface.  Producing mills are very sensitive to what they call “exposed surfaces”, meaning not only is the surface not machined, but it is an exposed surface visible on the finished product to the consumer, and must look nice.  If the extruder understands which surfaces are exposed, the die can be designed to minimize potential surface imperfections when the extrusion is running out of the extrusion press.  The surface finish of a product can also have impact on its dimensions and tolerances. Make sure you understand how important the surface finish is to your finished product.  It will save a lot of headaches in the long run.

4. Consider post extruding manufacturing processes: Understanding the manufacturing processes used to create the finished product is important for accurately assessing its dimensions, tolerances, and finished surface condition required. For Example.  Many cutoff saws have pneumatic hold down clamps that can put too much pressure on a thin wall of an Aluminum extrusion and potentially crush the metal changing the shape of the part.  The same thing can happen in a fixture of a machining center.  Make sure you have a thorough understanding of the manufacturing process that will take place on your custom extruded shape and any associated tolerances you need to hold.

5. Communicate clearly with your suppliers: Finally, clear communication with your suppliers is essential for ensuring that the products they provide meet your required specifications. Make sure you provide detailed specifications to your suppliers and have open lines of communication to address any potential issues that may arise.

By following these tips, you can ensure that the custom extruded shapes you purchase will meet your specifications.  You will also find that you will look to Aluminum extrusions in the future as a cost-effective design option for saving money by reducing weight, secondary operations, and time. This process requires a custom extrusion partner that will take the time to clarify all these points. Howard Precision Metals is a dedicated Aluminum distributor focused on providing the knowledge and expertise in Aluminum plate, bar, and custom extruded shapes. Contact Howard Precision Metals on your next custom extrusion requirement.

At Howard Precision Metals, we offer an extensive inventory of 6061 extruded aluminum bar in an array of sizes that meet the needs of various applications. This includes a significant number of our rectangular and square extrusions in manifold quality extruded bar.

Manifold Quality Bar Sizes

The entire range of manifold quality aluminum extruded products we carry are extruded to the plus side at ½ the Aluminum Association published thickness and width tolerances, as opposed to a plus/minus AA standards. This provides the user with extra stock for machining purposes. The range of sizes offered for the bars are 1” x 1.25” through 6.0 x 8.0 in rectangles and 0.875” x 0.875 through 6” x 6” in squares. Outside of these size ranges, custom extruded aluminum in squares and rectangles are usually made to AA standards with +/- tolerances.

Manifold Quality Bar Tolerances

When the custom extruded aluminum size changes, the tolerance also changes. The tolerance of a 2” x 2” manifold quality extruded bar, for example, will have a +.012”/-0” tolerance vs. a +/-.012” tolerance from the Aluminum Association. By making plus-side only tolerances available with these bars, in many cases there is less need to order the next available bar size. The benefits include reduced weight of bar purchases, less machine time, and lower cost of materials.

Improved Tolerances, Strength, and Machinability

Beyond the plus-side only and stockier custom extruded aluminum bar dimensions, manifold quality 6061 aluminum extrusions also provide enhanced flatness tolerances, dimensional control, straightness, twist, in addition to better machinability, and greater mechanical strength. As a result of the compact chips produced from drilling and boring operations, the machining throughput of a manifold quality extruded bar is improved. This allows for a consistent mechanical process.

These bars are ideal for customers who produce various types of machinery and equipment, telecommunications electronics, pneumatic and hydraulic manifolds, and fixtures.

Highly Machinable

The mills we work with on a consistent basis have committed their resources to upgrading their aluminum extrusions by enhancing performance on piece-to-piece and lot-to-lot basis, manufacturing products that result in the formation of smaller-sized chips under machining operations and promising bars that produce less burring. The improvements made by these mills allow manifold quality extruded bar to endure more complex machining processes with the removal of large voids.

Manifold Bar Alloy and Temper

Aluminum is not that strong as a stand-alone element. However, when it is alloyed with certain elements its strength can increase significantly, with certain alloys comparing with the strength of steel. The alloy and temper designation of manifold bar is 6061-T6511. When magnesium, silicone, and other elements are added to aluminum, 6061 alloy results.

The -T6511 temper adds artificial aging and heat treatment for increased strength and stretching to relieve stress. Some of the major benefits of 6061 alloy are its machinability, strength-to-weight ratio, and great surface finish, making it ideal for many applications, including in the form of extruded aluminum bar.

Due to the inherent characteristics and tolerances of 6061-T6511, it is the ideal option for the production of manifold quality extruded bar. However, 6061-T6511 does not have the standard chemistry for manifold quality bar. Therefore, in order to achieve greater strength and better machinability, the recipe has been refined. This results in a yield and tensile strength of 38,000 KSI and 42,000 KSI respectively for manifold quality bar as opposed to 35,000 KSI and 38,000 KSI respectively for standard 6061-T6511.

Optimize Profits With Custom Manifold Quality

It is possible to get a custom manifold quality extruded bar made to the exact size you need for your applications. Offering ½ Aluminum Association tolerances all on the plus side, we are able to help you increase your profits by reducing the pounds you purchase and minimizing your cycle time per part. The costs for aluminum tooling are small compared to other tooling expenses.

Typically it costs between $700 to $1000 to manufacture a new, custom solid square, rectangle, or round custom aluminum extrusion bar. Through amortization of the cost compared to the savings achieved, it will only take a few runs to pay for the die. Custom aluminum extrusion dies are ideal for repetitive requirements since 1000 pounds is the starting press minimum. As a result of these facts, you can achieve greater profitability with custom extruded aluminum and keep your operations in house. It is wise to evaluate the various advantages afforded by custom aluminum extrusions before a competitor does.

Also, don’t automatically assume the aluminum bar you purchase elsewhere meets manifold machinability and tolerances. The extrusion process and required oversight at the mill to meet the standards of manifold quality extruded bar are special. It needs to include the properly controlled chemistry that provides the required enhanced consistency and machinability.

For the custom extruded aluminum and manifold quality extruded bar you need, call us today at 800.444.0311 or request for quote using our online form.