Properties and Applications of 6061 Extruded Aluminum Bar

Know all about the properties and applications of 6061 extruded aluminum bar at Arch Metals, the 6061 extruded aluminum bar supplier.

6061 aluminum alloy is the versatile and highly used grade having applications in many industries. This alloy’s alloying elements have given it useful properties, such as electrical conductivity, good workability, incredible strength, corrosion resistance, and thermal conductivity. Here, we will explore the properties and applications of the 6061 Extruded Aluminum Bar.

Chemical Composition of 6061 Aluminum Alloy - The chemical composition of 6061 aluminum alloy is as:

• 97% aluminum

• 0.2% chromium

• 0.28% copper

• 0.6% silicon

• 1.0% magnesium

• A very small amount of few other elements

There are lots of aluminum alloys with a unique code. There are series of alloys like 1000 series, 6000 series, and 7000 series. Digits are to indicate specific properties and uniqueness of an alloy.

6061 aluminum is the most recognized member of the 6000 series. The first number of this alloy is 6 that is to represents its prime alloying elements i.e. magnesium and silicon. Prime alloying elements are those elements that are used in higher portions to make an alloy. The 2nd digit shows impurity control demands adequate attention as alloying elements are all mixed with base aluminum. The number 0 that is to indicate no particular care is needed to tighten controls. The next two digits are 6 and 1, which don’t have any different function than indicating the alloys present in their series.

Characteristics Of 6061 Aluminum - 6061 aluminum alloy is extensively used aluminum grade in many industries due to its features and availability in various forms like angle, bar, sheet, or plate. This alloy has medium to high strength, nice machinability, and weldability. It can be heat-treated for improvement in strength and corrosion resistance. That’s why it is called a versatile alloy for the aerospace industry. Heat treatment involves exposing the alloy to high temperatures that are below the melting point. As a result, tampering strengthens the metal by decreasing its brittleness and internal stresses.

Applications of 6061 Aluminum Alloy - 6061 aluminum alloy is well known for its versatility as it is used in various industries. Remarkable strength, lightweight, cost-effectiveness, rust and corrosion resistance are its top features. General applications of this alloy are industrial parts, bicycle frames, cans, electrical fittings, and food containers, etc. Here are some more applications of 6061 alloy:

Automotive Parts - Usually, 6061 aluminum alloy is used in the automotive sector to manufacture various types of parts. Its excellent strength is useful for making frame components like vehicle, engine, brake, suspension, and drivetrain components. Likewise, its lightweight is helpful to body panel manufacturing. It helps to reduce the vehicle’s overall weight without sacrificing its strength and/or durability.

Aircraft Components - Aluminum 6061 is one of the most used materials in aerospace applications because it holds the perfect strength-to-weight ratio and corrosion resistance. Manufacturers use 6061 alloys for aircraft components like bulkheads, fuselages, wings, stabilizers, and other structural components of both commercial and military aircraft. This alloy provides flexibility and durability to aerospace applications. 6061 Extruded Aluminum Bar is one of the most preferred forms of this alloy.

Conclusion - Here, we explained the useful details on the 6061 aluminum alloy properties and applications. Now that you understand this alloy’s features, uses, and importance, it will be easy for you to decide if it suits your products. When you are determined to purchase this alloy, you are suggested to choose ArchMetals for top-quality 6061 Extruded Aluminum Bar at competitive prices.