High-Strength Structural

6061

The most versatile and widely used structural aluminum alloy, the 6xxx series benchmark.

290–310 MPa UTS
240–276 MPa Yield Strength
~95 HB Hardness

Developed in 1935, 6061 is the benchmark against which other 6xxx alloys are compared. With copper content (0.15–0.40%) giving it higher strength, it is the second most commonly extruded alloy in the world after 6063.

International Nomenclature

Standard Designation
AA (USA) 6061
EN (Europa) EN AW-6061 · AlMg1SiCu
DIN (Alemania) AlMgSi1Cu / 3.3211
ISO AlMg1SiCu
JIS (Japón) A6061
BS (Reino Unido) H20

Chemical Composition

ElementSymbolPercentage
Aluminum Al Balance
Magnesium Mg 0.80–1.20%
Silicon Si 0.40–0.80%
Iron Fe ≤0.70%
Copper Cu 0.15–0.40%
Chromium Cr 0.04–0.35%
Zinc Zn ≤0.25%
Titanium Ti ≤0.15%
Manganese Mn ≤0.15%

Physical Properties

Property Value
Density 2.70 g/cm³
Melting Range 582–652 °C
Thermal Conductivity 152 W/m·K
Electrical Conductivity ~43% IACS

Mechanical Properties

Property Value
Tensile Strength (UTS) 290–310 MPa (T6)
Yield Strength 240–276 MPa (T6)
Elongation 8–10%
Hardness ~95 HB
Fatigue Strength 97 MPa (5×10⁸ cycles)

Key Characteristics

  • The most versatile and widely used structural aluminum alloy in the world
  • Precipitation-hardened (heat-treatable) for excellent strength
  • Good corrosion resistance to atmosphere and seawater
  • Excellent machinability, especially in T4 and T6 tempers
  • Second most commonly extruded alloy worldwide (after 6063)

Industries & Applications

Automotive

Structural components, chassis parts, body panels

Aerospace

Aircraft fittings, structural components, fuel tanks

Marine

Yacht construction, boat hulls, marine fittings

Construction

Bridge decks, roof structures, building frameworks

Special Notes

Developed in 1935, 6061 is the industry benchmark when structural strength is required. Copper content (0.15–0.40%) gives it higher strength than 6063 but slightly lower corrosion resistance. Common tempers: O, T4, T6, T651.

Related Alloys

6063 The most extruded alloy in the world, preferred for its superior surface finish and excellent anodizing response. 6005 The sweet spot between strength and extrudability, nearly matching 6061 with better surface finish. 6082 The European standard structural alloy, with the highest strength in the 6xxx series and excellent corrosion resistance. 1100 Maximum thermal and electrical conductivity with excellent corrosion resistance and formability.

Related Resources

Aluminum Alloy Cross-Reference: AA, EN, DIN, JIS, ISO Designation Equivalents Complete cross-reference table of aluminum alloy designations across AA, EN AC, DIN, JIS, ISO, NF, a... 6063 vs 6061 vs 6005: Which Alloy to Choose for Profile Extrusion? Technical comparison of 6063, 6061, and 6005 alloys for aluminum profile extrusion. Mechanical prope... Heat Treatment of Aluminum Alloys: T5, T6, and T7 — Process, Properties, and Applications Complete technical guide to T5, T6, and T7 heat treatments for cast and wrought aluminum alloys. Tem... Aluminum for Construction and Architecture: Profiles, Alloys, and Applications Complete guide to aluminum use in construction and architecture: extrusion profiles, 6063, 6061, and...

Need 6061?

We manufacture this alloy in ingots, donuts, and bars to your exact specifications.

Request a Quote View Products →

Legal disclaimer: The technical information, chemical compositions, mechanical and physical properties presented on this website are for illustrative and reference purposes only. Actual values may vary depending on manufacturing conditions, heat treatment, and customer process. Transformación Puebla does not guarantee that the data shown here corresponds exactly to the specifications of a particular batch. For guaranteed specifications, please request the technical data sheet and analysis certificate corresponding to your order.