6061 Aluminum Alloy Introduction

Property/FeatureDescription
CompositionMg: 0.8-1.2%, Si: 0.4-0.8%, Cu: 0.15-0.4%
Production ProcessHeat treatment, pre-stretching
StrengthModerate compared to 2XXX, 7XXX series
CharacteristicsExcellent processing, weldability, corrosion resistance
Shapes & SizesBar (2.0-800mm), Square Bar (100x100x10mm), Pipe (OD 5-500mm, ID 4-480mm), Square Pipe (10×10-300x300mm), Plate (250x1500x300mm, 300x1500x3000mm)

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6061 Aluminum Alloy Product Introduction

Chemical Composition

ElementComposition (%)
Silicon (Si)0.40 – 0.8
Iron (Fe)0.70 max
Copper (Cu)0.15 – 0.40
Manganese (Mn)0.15 max
Magnesium (Mg)0.80 – 1.20
Chromium (Cr)0.04 – 0.35
Zinc (Zn)0.25 max
Titanium (Ti)0.15 max
Others0.05 max each, 0.15 max total

Mechanical Properties

PropertyValue
Tensile Strength (MPa)310
Yield Strength (MPa)276
Elongation at Break (%)12
Hardness (Brinell)95 HB

Performance at Different Temperatures

  • Good performance at room temperature with stable mechanical properties.
  • Maintains strength and toughness at low temperatures.
  • Slightly decreases in strength at higher temperatures above 100°C.

Industrial Applications

Industry SectorApplications
AerospaceAircraft structures, fuselage panels
AutomotiveVehicle frames, wheels, automotive parts
MarineBoat hulls, components exposed to saltwater
ConstructionStructural components, bridges, scaffolding
Consumer GoodsBicycle frames, sporting equipment

Shapes and Sizes

  • Forms: Sheets, plates, bars, tubes, extrusions.
  • Sizes: Thickness ranging from 0.2 mm to 200 mm, various shapes and dimensions available.

Production Standards

  • ASTM B209: Standard specification for aluminum and aluminum-alloy sheet and plate.
  • Various international standards based on application and manufacturing requirements.

Standards and Corresponding Grades

Country/RegionStandardsCorresponding Grades
USAASTM B2096061
EuropeEN 573, EN 485EN AW-6061
JapanJIS H4000, JIS H4040JIS A6061
ChinaGB/T 3190, GB/T 38806061A

Welding and Processing

Welding MethodsProcessing Methods
TIG, MIG, ResistanceCutting, drilling, machining

Heat Treatment and Cold Processing

  • Responds well to heat treatment for improving strength and hardness.
  • Cold working can enhance mechanical properties but may reduce formability.

Advantages and Disadvantages

AdvantagesDisadvantages
High strength-to-weight ratioLower corrosion resistance than some alloys
Good machinabilityMore expensive than some aluminum alloys
Versatile applications across industriesLimited to moderate formability in certain processes

Similar Products and Comparison

Alloy Type/Property6061 Alloy6063 Alloy7075 Alloy
Composition (%)Si: 0.40-0.8Si: 0.20-0.6Si: 0.40
Tensile Strength (MPa)310185570
Yield Strength (MPa)276145505
ApplicationsGeneral purpose structural applicationsArchitectural applicationsAerospace, high-strength applications

Conclusion

6061 aluminum alloy stands out for its combination of strength, lightweight properties, and corrosion resistance, making it a popular choice across various industries. Its versatility in processing and applications ensures it remains a cornerstone material in modern manufacturing and construction.

This outline provides a structured approach to crafting a comprehensive introduction to 6061 Aluminum Alloy, covering its chemical composition, mechanical properties, applications, production standards, processing methods, advantages, disadvantages, and comparison with similar alloys.