Properties and Applications of Aluminum 6061 Sheets

6061 Aluminum is a precipitation-hardened, heat-treatable composite, containing magnesium, silicon, manganese as primary alloying elements. This high-strength alloy has become popular for applications requiring strength and durability. It’s often used in structural components, such as beams and frames, but it also finds use in automotive parts like wheels and chassis because of its resistance to corrosion. In this article, we’ll explore the properties of aluminum 6061, along with some of its applications.

Properties of aluminum 6061

6061 aluminum sheet has excellent mechanical properties, including formability, dimensional stability, weld ability, machinability, and corrosion resistance. Some other properties include:

Density: 2.70 g/cm3 (0.0975 lb/in3)

The density of aluminum 6061 is quite high, which makes it a good choice for applications where weight savings are essential. This alloy has a density of 2.70 g/cm3 and is also heat treatable, which means that its mechanical properties can be altered and managed by controlled heating and cooling processes.

Tensile Strength (MPa): 240 – 290

Tensile strength is the maximum level of stress a material can bear without causing failure or breaking. The strength of aluminum 6061 sheets is measured by its yield strength and ultimate strength values. This alloy has a yield strength of 240 MPa (35,000 psi), and its ultimate strength is rated at 290 MPa (42000 psi).

Yield strength (MPa): 240

Yield strength refers to the stress at which a material first yields. As such, it is usually lower than tensile strength. Yield strength is a measure of the resistance to permanent deformation and also affects ductility, amounting to how much a material can be stretched before it breaks. It’s important to know about yield strength because it provides information about how strong your part will be when loaded in tension or compression. The yield strength of aluminum 6061 sheets is 240 MPa (35,000 psi), depending on thickness and tempering grade.

Modulus of Elasticity (GPa): 67-73

The modulus of elasticity (MOE) is a measure of stiffness, which is the resistance to deformation. A material’s stiffness determines how much force it takes to stretch or compress it. The modulus of elasticity of aluminum 6061 sheets ranges between 67 and 73.

Thermal Conductivity (W/m-K): 152-167 BTU-in/hr-ft²-°F

Thermal conductivity refers to a material’s ability to conduct heat. As such, it is measured as the amount of heat that will flow through a given thickness of material for every unit of time. The higher the thermal conductivity, the better it is at conducting heat. This property is important in many applications because it helps determine how well your product will perform its intended function when exposed to high temperatures. The conductivity of aluminum 6061 sheets can be between 152 and 167 W/m K.

Applications of Aluminum 6061 Sheets

6061 aluminum is used in transportation, marine, food processing equipment, fiberglass reinforced plastic structures, sporting goods, solar panels, aircraft, architectural, and other industrial applications. Some common applications include aircraft seat frames, cargo doors, baggage compartments, landing gear struts, control arms, rudder pedals, and engine mount components for commercial aircraft.

It is commonly used in electrical applications to make circuit breakers because it has high heat resistance, making them ideal for this application.

6061 is also used in railroad cars, trucks, and trailers due to its corrosion resistance properties as well as its strength characteristics.

6061 aluminum sheet is also widely used in furniture assemblies, such as desks/workstations and kitchen cabinets, due to its aesthetic appeal combined with excellent mechanical properties.

The final price of an aluminum sheet can also vary based on material grade, type of temper, and finish. To get a quote on 6061 aluminum sheet price, call Bayou Metals at (888) 201-6417.