Aluminum 6061 vs. Aluminum 6063
Aluminum 6061 and Aluminum 6063 are similar in composition and mechanical properties. Both 6061 aluminum and 6063 aluminum are popular for extrusions. Both alloys contain magnesium for increased strength and silicon to reduce the melting temperature. Commons uses for aluminum include transportation components, recreation products, machinery and equipment, and consumer durables.
Jump to the infographic comparing 6061 vs 6063 Aluminum.
If your project requires an aluminum alloy that is extrudable, with great corrosion resistance and good surface quality, 6063 aluminum is best suited for your project requirements. Explore IMS’ 6063 aluminum products
Jump to the infographic comparing 6061 vs 6063 Aluminum.
6061 Aluminum or 6063 Aluminum: Which is Best for Your Project?
If you need an aluminum alloy with high strength-to-weight ratio, that offers good machinability and weldability, 6061 aluminum will meet your needs. Find high-quality 6061 aluminum products.If your project requires an aluminum alloy that is extrudable, with great corrosion resistance and good surface quality, 6063 aluminum is best suited for your project requirements. Explore IMS’ 6063 aluminum products
Commonly Used Aluminum 6061 and 6063 Products
Differences Between AL 6061 and AL 6063
While 6061 AL and 6063 AL have commonalities, the differences between the 2 alloys can help you determine which alloy is best suited for your needs. For applications that require higher strength, 6061 or 6082 are typically used. Their slightly different characteristics make each one a better choice for different applications.- 6061 aluminum has a lower melting temperature, lower thermal conductivity, and lower heat capacity.
- AL 6061-T6 has a higher yield strength and fatigue strength when compared to AL-T6 6063.
- It is also less corrosion resistant than AL 6063.
- When compared to 6061 AL, 6063 aluminum has a higher melting temperature, higher thermal conductivity, and higher heat capacity.
- AL 6063 has a better surface finish than AL 6061 and is preferrable for architectural purposes.
Aluminum Alloy 6061
- AL 6061 is ideal for structural applications and construction projects that require high strength aluminum extrusions.
- Alloy 6061, or structural aluminum, comes in two variations, or tempers, T4 and T6, which have slightly different properties caused by processing after extrusion.
Aluminum Alloy 6063
- Alloy 6063, or architectural aluminum, can be soft anodized to create an aesthetically pleasing, colored finish for visual architectural and building applications.
- Common uses for 6063 AL include window frames, door frames, roofs, and sign frames since high strength is not the most important factor.
- It is also used for electrical components and conduit, pipe and tube for irrigation systems, architectural & building products, railings, furniture, appliances, boats, and motor vehicles.
- 6063 is primarily used for applications that are exposed because it suffers weather better than 6061, making it more corrosion resistant.
Aluminum Alloys 6061 vs. 6063 Infographic
