When it comes to sheet metal, aluminum offers a wide range of benefits over steel, stainless steel, and galvanized steel. It provides exceptional corrosion resistance and other properties that are very useful. When you choose 6061 aluminum sheet for your applications, you’ll receive a lot of advantages. Here is more information on the subject.
Why 6061?
6061 is one of the 6000 series aluminum alloys available today. Two of the most common metals included are magnesium and silicon. However, it also has several other metals. 6000 alloys are very popular because you can heat treat them and this makes them stronger. It’s also not too difficult to weld 6000 alloy. 6061 aluminum sheet is very popular and widely used as general-purpose aluminum.
Extrusion Applications
Many materials today are made from extruded aluminum, and 6000 series alloy is one of the most common materials. It’s easily formed into billets that are the raw materials for the extrusion process. You’ll see 6061 in extruded bar forms which are used in many processes today.
Aerospace
Because it’s strong and light, 6000 series aluminum is very popular in the aerospace industry. It can be shaped into wings and fuselages and is sometimes welded.
Marine
6061 aluminum sheet has excellent resistance to salt corrosion. It’s commonly used to make boat bodies and other parts. Many SCUBA tanks are made from 6061 because it offers excellent corrosion resistance and is light in weight.
Other Uses
As general-purpose aluminum, 6061 sees many uses. For example, it’s easily machined, so it’s formed into many aluminum parts for the automotive industry. Many forged aluminum wheels are made from 6061. 6061 is used to make many types of tanks, and it’s commonly used in bicycle frames. Because of its strength, it’s sometimes used as a cost-effective alternative to stainless steel and some of the more expensive aluminum alloys.
