Aluminum 6061 series alloy is a general-purpose structural alloy developed by Alcoa in 1935. The tempered grades mainly include 6061-T4, T451, Al 6061-T6, 6061-T651, etc. 6061 aluminum alloy is one of the most widely used alloys. The main alloying elements are magnesium (Mg) and silicon (Si). The content of silicon and magnesium in this alloy is close to the formation of magnesium silicide (Mg2Si), so it is a heat treated wrought aluminum alloy.
Aluminum 6061 series T6 temper has a minimum yield strength of 35 ksi (240 MPa), almost the same as A36 steel. This strength combined with light weight (about 1/3 that of steel) makes it particularly suitable for structural applications where static loads are a concern. Compared to 7000 series (e.g. Alloy 7075) and 2000 series (e.g. Alloy 2024) aluminum, AA6061 aluminum alloy, while lower in strength, is less sensitive to solution heat treatment and quench changes.
Because 6061 aluminum alloy is easy to be extruded, it can provide various product forms such as 6061 aluminum sheet, strip, plate, bar, forging, pipe, pipe, wire, extrusion and structural profile.
Aluminum 6061 has good corrosion resistance, mechanical properties, formability, weldability and machinability. Generally suitable for medium and high strength requirements, and has good toughness. Applications range from food and beverage packaging, electronics and home appliances, architectural finishes, transportation to aerospace components. Alloy 6082, popular in Europe, is slightly stronger than AA6061 and has similar uses.
Aluminum 6061 series alloy has excellent corrosion resistance to atmospheric conditions and good corrosion resistance to seawater. This alloy also has a good finish and responds well to anodizing. However, if appearance is important, consider a 6060 or 6063 alloy.