We all know that aluminum extrusions are widely used in a wide range of applications. The primary element of the material is aluminum, with alloys such as magnesium, copper, zinc, and silicon added to form the composition. Aluminum extrusions are classified into various categories, including seven series based on alloy composition. Each series contains different alloying elements. Industrially, copper-based alloys are primarily aluminum-silicon, while 6-series aluminum extrusions, which contain a small amount of magnesium, are the most widely used. Today, we’ve reviewed the main features and applications of 6-series aluminum extrusions.
As mentioned above, 6-series aluminum extrusions are alloys primarily composed of aluminum and silicon. They are extruded at high temperatures to form a strengthening phase called Mg₂Si. There are many alloy grades for 6-series aluminum extrusions, with the most commonly used being 6463, 6262, 6201, 6082, 6063, 6061, 6010, 6009, and 6005. CNC machining manufacturers often use 6061 and 6063.
Alloy Grades, Main Features, and Applications
| Alloy Grade | Main Features | Applications |
|---|---|---|
| 6463 | Medium strength, good color | Automotive interiors |
| 6351 | High corrosion resistance, good pressure resistance | Pipelines and structural applications |
| 6262 | High stress, strong corrosion resistance | Parts with high-strength threads |
| 6201 | Good electrical conductivity, high strength | Conductive rods and cables |
| 6101 | High thermal conductivity, electrical conductivity, and strength | Bus structural profiles and radiators |
| 6082 | High load-bearing capacity, good weldability | Extruded profiles and heavy-duty structural parts for the automotive industry |
| 6063 | Medium strength, strong corrosion resistance, high temperature resistance, wear resistance, good tensile strength and yield strength, high hardness | Industrial aluminum profiles, architectural profiles, automotive, workbenches, shelving, escalators, automated conveying, electronics, assembly lines, industrial fencing, aluminum profile accessories, anti-static workbenches, lean pipes |
| 6061 | High strength, strong corrosion resistance, good wear resistance, easy processing | Trucks, furniture, mechanical parts, trams, ships, aluminum tubes, aluminum bars, aluminum plates |
| 6010 | High strength, good processing performance | Automotive sheet metal |
| 6009 | Wear resistance, corrosion resistance, high compressive strength | Automotive body panels |
| 6005 | High strength, corrosion resistance | Escalators, TV antennas |
Conclusion
Due to its relatively light weight, strong corrosion resistance, high strength, and good processing performance, 6-series aluminum profiles play a vital role in industrial production. They are indispensable materials in the automotive, aerospace, and electronics sectors, providing the manufacturing of various equipment for the rapidly developing modern industrial sector.
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