The difference between 6061 and 6063 aluminum sheets. It highlights the properties, differences, and applications of both alloys to determine which one is better suited for specific uses.

  1. Properties of 6061 Aluminum Sheet:

    • High strength, hardness, and toughness.
    • Well-balanced hardness and moderate corrosion resistance.
    • Excellent heat treatability for strength and hardness improvements.
    • Good weldability and acceptable thermal and electrical conductivity.
    • Can be further improved with various finishing procedures.

  2. Properties of 6063 Aluminum Sheet:

    • Similar to 6061 in terms of mechanical characteristics.
    • Good strength, hardness, and toughness (slightly lower than 6061).
    • Good corrosion resistance and durability.
    • Acceptable heat treatability for specific applications.
    • Excellent weldability and satisfactory thermal and electrical conductivity.
    • Smooth surface finish suitable for decorative applications.

  3. Comparison of Physical Properties:

    • Density: 6061 - 2.72 g/cm³, 6063 - 2.68 g/cm³
    • Melting Point: 6061 - 582-651°C, 6063 - 606-655°C
    • Thermal Conductivity: 6061 - 151-202 W/m·K, 6063 - 166-201 W/m·K
    • Electrical Conductivity: 6061 - 43-47% IACS, 6063 - 40-44% IACS
    • Young's Modulus: 6061 - 68.9 GPa, 6063 - 68.3 GPa
    • Tensile Strength: 6061 - 240-310 MPa, 6063 - 130-230 MPa

  4. Comparison of Chemical Properties:

    • Both alloys have similar compositions, with slight variations in the percentage of elements such as aluminum, magnesium, silicon, iron, copper, zinc, manganese, titanium, and chromium.

  5. Comparison of Basic Performance:

    • 6061 aluminum offers higher strength, hardness, and toughness compared to 6063.
    • Both alloys exhibit good corrosion resistance, with a potential slight advantage for 6061 in harsh environments.
    • 6061 is more suitable for significant strength enhancements through heat treatment.
    • Both alloys have excellent weldability and similar electrical and thermal conductivity.
    • Both alloys offer smooth surface finishes, but 6063 is often preferred for decorative applications.

  6. Applications:

    • 6061 Aluminum Sheet: Aerospace components, automotive parts, structural components, construction, and architectural projects.
    • 6063 Aluminum Sheet: Architectural applications (window and door frames), decorative elements, electrical enclosures, heat sinks, and piping systems.