Overview

6061 Aluminum Sheets represent the industry standard for versatility and performance in a wide range of manufacturing and fabrication applications. As a precipitation-hardened alloy containing magnesium and silicon as its primary alloying elements, 6061 aluminum offers an exceptional balance of mechanical properties, workability, and corrosion resistance. This makes it one of the most widely used heat-treatable aluminum alloys globally.

The 6061 aluminum alloy is renowned for its high strength-to-weight ratio. In the T6 temper condition, which is the most common for sheet products, it achieves significant strength characteristics that rival many steels. The presence of magnesium and silicon forms magnesium-silicide (Mg2Si), which provides the alloy with its excellent heat-treatable properties. This composition grants 6061 aluminum sheets superior structural integrity while remaining lightweight and highly machinable.

6061 aluminum sheets are indispensable across numerous sectors. In aerospace, they are used for non-critical structural components, wing ribs, and fuselage skins in general aviation. The automotive industry utilizes these sheets for custom frames, brackets, and panels. In marine environments, their corrosion resistance makes them ideal for boat hulls and deck fittings. Furthermore, 6061 sheets are fundamental in architectural projects for facades and trim, in transportation for truck bodies and trailers, and in general fabrication for jigs, fixtures, and machine parts.

The primary advantage of 6061 aluminum sheets is their remarkable versatility. They can be easily welded using all common methods, including TIG and MIG, and are suitable for furnace brazing. Their excellent corrosion resistance, particularly against atmospheric conditions, reduces long-term maintenance costs. The alloy is also highly formable and can be machined to precise tolerances, offering fabricators great design flexibility. Combined with its wide availability and cost-effectiveness, 6061 aluminum sheet is the go-to choice for engineers and fabricators seeking a reliable, high-performance material.

Specifications

• Standard: ASTM B209
• Temper: Commonly supplied as T6 (Solution Heat Treated and Artificially Aged)
• Thickness Range (Sheet): 0.012 inches to 0.249 inches
• Width Range: 36 inches to 60 inches (standard mill sizes)
• Length Range: 96 inches to 144 inches (standard mill sizes)
• Tolerances: Thickness per ASTM B209, Flatness per ASTM B241
• Density: 0.098 lb/in? (2.70 g/cm?)
• Melting Range: 1080-1205F (582-652C)

Applications

• Aerospace components (non-critical structures, wing ribs, fuselage skins)
• Automotive frames, brackets, and body panels
• Marine applications (boat hulls, decks, fittings)
• Architectural facades, trim, and decorative elements
• Transportation (truck bodies, trailers, RV components)
• General fabrication (jigs, fixtures, machine parts)
• Electronic enclosures and chassis
• Consumer goods and recreational equipment
• Manufacturing packages and containers
• General aviation and homemade aircraft components

Weldability

• Excellent weldability using MIG, TIG, and Stick welding processes
• Recommended filler metals: 4043 or 5356 aluminum filler wire
• Pre-heating recommended for sections thicker than 0.25" to prevent cracking
• Post-weld heat treatment may be required to restore strength in heat-affected zones
• Suitable for furnace brazing with proper flux and temperature control

How to Measure

Order Checklist

• Thickness (gauge or decimal inch)
• Width and length dimensions
• Alloy and temper (6061-T6)
• Quantity (sheets or square footage)
• Cutting instructions (full sheets or custom cut)
• Finish requirements (mill finish, brushed, etc.)
• Any certifications required (MTR)
• Special handling or packaging requirements