Currently, the world’s extrusion market is valued above 90 billion dollars and is steadily increasing at a compounded yearly growth rate of 7.5%. In part, the 6063 and 6061 play a crucial role in the market bulge. Their lightweight nature, durability, flexibility, and resistance to weather elements have made them popular. But is there a difference between 6061 and 6063? Let’s find out.
6061 Aluminum Extrusions
The 6061 is a flexible alloy that emanates super strength and corrosion resistance. Its magnesium, aluminum, and silicon-based composition makes it formidable for structural applications. For instance, magnesium and silicon boost their mechanical properties, tensile strength, and formability.
6063 Aluminum Extrusions
Easy going with surface furnishes and extrusion processes, the 6063 also consists of aluminum and silicon. It is just short of magnesium, unlike its 6061 counterpart. Yet it still has good properties for architectural and decorative applications.
6061 Properties and Uses
- Strength: 6061 extrusion’s tensile strength is rated at 290 MPa (42 ksi), with the peak yield strength coming at 240 MPa (35 ksi). Its high strength-to-weight ratio means it tolerates heavy loads and structural stresses.
- Machinability: 6061 is convenient to work with and shape per any requirements, thanks to a 90% machinability rating.
- Corrosion Resistance: 6061 aluminum has a corrosion resistance rating of “A” in unpainted applications meaning it can be used in harsh environments.
- Applications: 6061, thanks to its strength, can be used in aerospace components, automotive parts, and architectural frameworks in construction. But that may go beyond boat fittings and automotive components.
6063 Properties and Uses
- Extrudability: 6063 flexible extrudability allows the creation of intricate and complex designs
- Surface Finish: 6063 is smooth and aesthetic, ideal for architectural and decorative applications.
- Thermal Conductivity: 6063 profile thermal conductivity makes them suitable for heat sinks.
Applications: 6063 aluminum extrusion manufactured by such machines may be used on window frames, door frames, architectural trims, and heat sinks. It is still vital in producing furniture, railings, and light fixtures.
Strength: 6061 vs. 6063 Aluminum Extrusions
- 6061: Gives tensile strength of 290 MPa (42 ksi) and yield strength of 240 MPa (35 ksi). It remains perfect for structural applications with an elongation at a break of 30 % and a modulus elasticity of 25.8 GPa.
- On the other hand, the 6063 extrusion has a moderate tensile strength of 241 MPa and yields tensile strength of 214 MPa. Its elongation at break is 12 %, and a modulus elasticity of 68.9 GPa, making it suitable for non-structural applications.
Machinability and Corrosion Resistance
6063 machinability is rated at 270%, on the same scale as the 6063. And they both have excellent corrosion resistance, especially on unpainted applications.
6061 Applications
6061 is perfect for aerospace components, automotive parts, structural frameworks, and marine applications. On the other hand, 6063 is applicable in architectural, interior design, electronics, and furniture industries.
Conclusion
So, as you can see, the 6061 bears excellent strength and suitability for structural purposes. At the same time, 6063 stands out for its extrudability, favorable surface finish, and architectural applications. Now that you know the differences, all that remains is getting a reliable manufacturer.
At Guangdong JMA Aluminium Profile Factory (Group) Co., Ltd, we have almost 30 years of experience in the aluminum industry. You can rely on us for guidance and for aluminum extrusion shopping.
