6061 aluminum sheet is a versatile material widely used in various industries, particularly in China, where its production and application have seen significant growth. This guide delves into the properties, manufacturing processes, and applications of 6061 aluminum sheet, emphasizing its importance in construction, automotive, and aerospace sectors.

Readers can expect to gain a comprehensive understanding of the material’s characteristics, including its strength, corrosion resistance, and workability. Additionally, the guide will explore the market trends, sourcing options, and quality standards relevant to 6061 aluminum sheet in China, equipping readers with the knowledge to make informed decisions.

Whether you are an engineer, manufacturer, or enthusiast, this guide will provide valuable insights into the benefits and challenges associated with 6061 aluminum sheet. By the end, you will be well-versed in its applications and the factors influencing its market dynamics in China.

Comprehensive Guide to 6061 Aluminum Sheet

6061 aluminum sheet is a general-purpose high-strength aluminum sheet that belongs to the 6000 series aluminum alloy (Al-Mg-Si). It is widely recognized for its excellent mechanical properties, corrosion resistance, and versatility in various applications. This guide will delve into the technical features, types, and applications of 6061 aluminum sheets, providing a thorough understanding of this essential material.

Technical Features of 6061 Aluminum Sheet

6061 aluminum sheets are known for their unique combination of properties that make them suitable for a wide range of applications. Below is a comparison table highlighting the key technical features of 6061 aluminum sheets:

Property	6061-T4	6061-T6	6061-T651
Density	2.70 g/cm³	2.70 g/cm³	2.70 g/cm³
Tensile Strength	241 MPa	310 MPa	310 MPa
Yield Strength	145 MPa	276 MPa	276 MPa
Elongation	12%	10%	10%
Hardness	95 HB	95 HB	95 HB
Thermal Conductivity	154 W/m·K	167 W/m·K	167 W/m·K
Corrosion Resistance	Good	Excellent	Excellent

Key Features Explained

Density: The density of 6061 aluminum is consistent across different tempers, making it lightweight yet strong.
Tensile and Yield Strength: The tensile strength increases with heat treatment, making 6061-T6 and 6061-T651 ideal for structural applications.
Elongation: This property indicates the material’s ability to deform under stress, which is crucial for applications requiring bending or shaping.
Hardness: The hardness remains stable across different tempers, ensuring durability.
Thermal Conductivity: 6061 aluminum exhibits good thermal conductivity, making it suitable for heat exchangers and other applications requiring efficient heat transfer.
Corrosion Resistance: The alloy’s resistance to corrosion is enhanced by its chemical composition, making it suitable for marine and industrial environments.

Types of 6061 Aluminum Sheets

6061 aluminum sheets come in various tempers, each offering distinct characteristics suitable for different applications. Below is a comparison table of the different types of 6061 aluminum sheets:

Type	Temper	Applications	Characteristics
6061-T4	T4	Structural components, automotive parts	Good formability, moderate strength
6061-T6	T6	Aircraft, marine applications	High strength, excellent corrosion resistance
6061-T651	T651	Precision machining, automotive wheels	Stress-relieved, maintains dimensional stability
6061-O	O	Applications requiring high formability	Soft, easy to work with, low strength
6061-H112	H112	General fabrication, structural applications	Good strength, suitable for welding

Understanding the Types

6061-T4: This temper is ideal for applications requiring good formability and moderate strength, making it suitable for structural components.
6061-T6: Known for its high strength and excellent corrosion resistance, this temper is widely used in aerospace and marine applications.
6061-T651: This type is stress-relieved, ensuring dimensional stability during machining, making it perfect for precision parts.
6061-O: The softest temper, 6061-O is easy to work with and is often used in applications where high formability is required.
6061-H112: This temper offers good strength and is suitable for general fabrication and structural applications.

Applications of 6061 Aluminum Sheet

6061 aluminum sheets are utilized in various industries due to their versatility and excellent properties. Common applications include:
– Aerospace: Used for aircraft skins, fuselage frames, and structural components due to their lightweight and high strength.
– Automotive: Ideal for body panels, wheels, and structural parts, providing a balance of strength and weight.
– Marine: Commonly used in boat construction and marine components due to their corrosion resistance.
– Construction: Employed in building frames, doors, and windows, offering durability and aesthetic appeal.
– Electronics: Used in manufacturing components for electronic devices, ensuring good conductivity and lightweight properties.

Notable Suppliers

Several manufacturers specialize in producing high-quality 6061 aluminum sheets. Notable suppliers include:
– Sasa Aluminum: www.sasaaluminum.com offers a range of aluminum products, including 6061 sheets, with various tempers and sizes.
– Hcaluminum: www.hcaluminum.com is known for its high-quality 6061 T6 aluminum sheets suitable for various applications.
– Aludepot: aludepot.com provides a comprehensive selection of 6061 aluminum sheets, emphasizing customization and quality.
– Mingtai Aluminum: www.mingtai-al.com specializes in producing 6061 aluminum sheets with a focus on precision and performance.
– Southwest Aluminum: www.southwest-aluminum.com offers customized 6061 aluminum sheets for various industrial applications.

Conclusion

6061 aluminum sheets are a versatile and essential material in various industries, known for their excellent mechanical properties, corrosion resistance, and adaptability. Understanding the different types and their applications can help in selecting the right aluminum sheet for specific needs. With numerous suppliers available, businesses can find high-quality 6061 aluminum sheets tailored to their requirements.

FAQs

1. What is the difference between 6061-T6 and 6061-T651?
6061-T6 is a heat-treated alloy that offers high strength, while 6061-T651 is stress-relieved, ensuring dimensional stability during machining.

2. Can 6061 aluminum sheets be welded?
Yes, 6061 aluminum sheets can be welded using various methods, including TIG and MIG welding, due to their excellent weldability.

3. What are the common thicknesses available for 6061 aluminum sheets?
Common thicknesses range from 0.3mm to 150mm, with customization options available from suppliers.

4. Is 6061 aluminum sheet suitable for marine applications?
Yes, 6061 aluminum sheets are highly resistant to corrosion, making them ideal for marine environments.

5. How can I customize the size of 6061 aluminum sheets?
Most suppliers, such as Mingtai Aluminum and Southwest Aluminum, offer customization options for length, width, and thickness based on specific requirements.