What are the differences between 6061 and 6063 aluminum alloy?

The 6061 aluminum alloy and 6063 aluminum alloy are different in their chemical composition, physical properties, processing characteristics and application fields.6061 aluminum alloy high strength, good mechanical properties, suitable for aerospace, automotive and other fields; 6063 aluminum alloy has good plasticity and malleability, suitable for construction, decoration engineering and other fields.Choose the right type to ensure optimal performance and performance.6061 and 6063 are two common aluminum alloy materials which differ in many ways. The two kinds of aluminum alloys will be fully analyzed below.

Chemical Composition 

6061 Aluminum alloy is a high-strength aluminum alloy, mainly containing silicon (Si), magnesium (Mg) and copper (Cu) elements.Its chemical composition was characterized by a higher content of silicon, magnesium and copper, with 0.40.8%, 0.81.2% and 0.150.4%, respectively. This distribution ratio endows the 6061 aluminum alloy with higher strength and good mechanical properties.

In contrast, the 6063 aluminum alloy has lower amounts of silicon, magnesium and copper. The silicon content range was 0.20.6%, magnesium content was 0.450.9%, and copper content should not exceed 0.1%.The low silicon, magnesium and copper content give the 6063 aluminum alloy good plasticity and ductility, easy to process and shape.

Physical Property 

Due to the differences in chemical composition, the 6061 and 6063 aluminum alloys differ in their physical properties.

1.Strength: Due to the high content of magnesium and copper elements in the 6061 aluminum alloy, its tensile strength and yield strength are higher. It is suitable for application scenarios requiring higher strength and mechanical performance, such as aerospace, automotive and transportation equipment.

2.Hardness: 6061 aluminum alloy hardness is relatively high, suitable for the need for higher hardness and wear resistance occasions, such as bearings, gears and other mechanical parts. While 6063 aluminum alloy is relatively low hardness, with good plasticity and ductility.

3.Corrosion resistance: Due to the copper elements in 6061 aluminum alloy have corrosion resistance and oxidation resistance, its corrosion resistance is better than that of 6063 aluminum alloy. It is suitable for the application scenarios with high corrosion resistance requirements, such as Marine environment, chemical industry, etc.

4.Thermal conductivity: 6061 aluminum alloy has a high thermal conductivity, suitable for high heat dissipation requirements of electronic equipment and heat exchangers and other fields. The thermal conductivity of 6063 aluminum alloy is relatively low, but it has good heat dissipation performance, which is suitable for the application of general heat dissipation requirements.

Processing Characteristics

1.Weldability: 6061 aluminum alloy has good weldability, suitable for various welding methods, such as MIG, TIG, etc. The 6063 aluminum alloy can also be welded, but due to its high silicon content, appropriate welding process measures need to be taken to reduce the thermal cracking sensitivity.

2.Cutting processing: because 6061 aluminum alloy is hard, cutting processing is more difficult. And 6063 aluminum alloy is relatively soft, easy to cut processing.

3.Cold bending and molding: 6063 aluminum alloy has good plasticity and ductility, suitable for all kinds of cold bending and molding processing. Although 6061 aluminum alloy can also be cold bent and molding, but because of its high strength, need appropriate processing equipment and process.

4.Surface treatment: both can be anodized to improve corrosion resistance and decorative effect. After anodic oxidation, different colors can be presented to meet the diversified appearance needs.

Application Area 

1.Aerospace field:Due to its high strength and excellent mechanical properties, the 6061 aluminum alloy is widely used in the manufacture of structural parts and mechanical parts in the aerospace field. For example, the aircraft frame, fuselage structure, landing gear and other key parts.

2.automotive filed:In automobile manufacturing, 6061 aluminum alloy is widely used in engine parts, transmission system, wheels and other parts. Its high strength and good mechanical properties provide the reliable structural support and durability for the automobile.

3.Construction and Decoration Works:Because of its good plasticity and ductility and easy to process and shape, it is often used in construction and decoration engineering. Such as door and window frame, curtain wall structure, display frame, etc. Its appearance quality is excellent and can meet the diverse design needs.

4.Electronic Equipment and Radiators:Since the 6061 aluminum alloy has a high thermal conductivity, it is suitable for manufacturing the heat sink and heat exchanger of electronic equipment. Good heat dissipation performance helps to ensure the stable operation of electronic equipment and extend the service life.

5.Ship and Ocean Engineering:In the field of shipbuilding and ocean engineering, 6061 aluminum alloy can be used for the key parts because of its hull structure and its good corrosion resistance. Its high strength and corrosion resistance can provide a reliable material choice for these applications.

 

To sum up, there are some differences between 6061 aluminum alloy and 6063 aluminum alloy in their chemical composition, physical properties, processing characteristics and application fields. According to the specific requirements, choosing the appropriate type of aluminum alloy can ensure the best performance and use effect of the material.