6061 Aluminum Beams
About 6061 Aluminum Beams
6061-T6 aluminum beams deliver a high strength-to-weight ratio, excellent weldability, and superior corrosion resistance. Conforming to ASTM B308, they are ideal for structural frames, supports, and machine bases. Los Angeles stock.
Quick Facts
- Material: 6061-T6 Aluminum
- ASTM Standard: B308
- Temper: T6 (Solution heat-treated, artificially aged)
- Location: Los Angeles warehouse
- Services: Custom size, same-day pickup
Overview
6061 aluminum is a precipitation-hardened alloy containing magnesium and silicon as its primary alloying elements. In the T6 temper, it is solution heat-treated and artificially aged to achieve its high strength characteristics. This process gives 6061 beams mechanical properties that make them suitable for a wide range of structural applications where durability and light weight are required. Its excellent corrosion resistance makes it a durable, low-maintenance alternative to steel.
Aluminum beams, often referred to as I-beams, feature a central web with top and bottom flanges. This cross-sectional shape provides exceptional resistance to bending and shear forces relative to its material weight. This structural efficiency makes 6061 aluminum beams a preferred material for fabricating frames, supports, truck beds, and platforms where minimizing weight without compromising strength is a primary design goal. The material is easily cut, drilled, and welded for custom fabrication.
Technical Specifications
Mechanical Properties (6061-T6)
| Property | Value | Unit |
|---|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | 45,000 | PSI |
| Yield Strength | 40,000 | PSI |
| Elongation | 12 | % |
| Hardness | 95 | HB |
| Shear Strength | 30,000 | PSI |
Applicable Standards
- ASTM B308: Standard Specification for Aluminum-Alloy 6061-T6 Standard Structural Profiles
Common Applications
- Transportation: Trailer frames, truck beds, and chassis components where high strength-to-weight ratio is critical.
- Construction: Structural framing, roof supports, and walkway construction due to its light weight and corrosion resistance.
- Industrial Machinery: Machine bases, support frames, and conveyor systems that require rigid, non-corrosive components.
- Marine: Docks, gangways, and boat lifts that require excellent performance in wet and saltwater environments.
- Automation & Robotics: Gantries and robotic frameworks that need stiffness without excessive mass.
- Display & Staging: Trade show booths, stage trusses, and lighting rigs that must be strong yet portable.
Working with 6061 Aluminum Beams
Machining
6061-T6 offers good machinability. It produces consistent chips and can be milled, drilled, and turned with standard tooling. Using a lubricant or coolant is recommended to prevent chip welding and achieve an optimal surface finish.
Welding
This alloy exhibits excellent weldability using common methods like TIG (GTAW) and MIG (GMAW). 4043 or 5356 filler wire is typically used. Note that the heat-affected zone will experience a reduction in strength, which may need to be considered in structural designs.
Finishing
6061 aluminum can be anodized for enhanced surface hardness, corrosion resistance, and color. It can also be powder coated or painted. Its natural mill finish provides good atmospheric corrosion resistance without additional treatment.
Related 6061 Aluminum Products
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How does a 6061 aluminum beam compare to an A36 steel beam?
A: A 6061 beam is approximately one-third the weight of a steel beam of the same dimensions but has a lower stiffness. It is chosen when weight reduction and corrosion resistance are more critical than the maximum strength and rigidity offered by steel.
Q: Can I use 6061 aluminum beams for outdoor structures?
A: Yes, 6061-T6 has excellent atmospheric corrosion resistance, making it ideal for outdoor applications like platforms, frames, and supports. For direct saltwater contact, 5000-series alloys may offer superior corrosion performance.
Q: What is the difference between an S-Beam and a W-Beam?
A: American Standard Beams (S-Beams) have tapered flanges, while Wide Flange Beams (W-Beams) have parallel, non-tapered flanges. 6061 aluminum beams are typically extruded as American Standard I-Beams, suitable for a wide range of structural loads.
Stock & Custom Sizes
Available in standard mill sizes. Standard lengths are typically 20 ft or 25 ft. Custom size available.
Same-day cutting and Los Angeles pickup available.
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