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6061 Aluminum Square Tubes
6061 Aluminum Square Tubes
6061 aluminum is a precipitation-hardened aluminum alloy containing magnesium and silicon as its major alloying elements. As the most versatile of the heat-treatable aluminum alloys, it offers a wide range of mechanical properties and excellent corrosion resistance. 6061 aluminum square tubes are ideal for structural applications where strength-to-weight ratio is critical. They can be fabricated using common techniques, welded by all methods, and are available in both standard mill finish and Alclad (clad) versions for enhanced corrosion protection.
- 6061-T6 Aluminum
- Structural Grade
- High Strength-to-Weight
- Excellent Weldability
Overview
6061 aluminum square tubes are the industry standard for structural and fabrication projects requiring an optimal balance of strength, workability, and corrosion resistance. As a precipitation-hardened alloy containing magnesium and silicon, 6061 aluminum (also known as 6061-T6 when heat-treated) offers exceptional versatility for a wide range of industrial applications.
The 6061 aluminum alloy is part of the 6000 series, renowned for its excellent mechanical properties. The addition of magnesium and silicon makes it heat-treatable, significantly enhancing its strength. In the common T6 temper condition, these square tubes achieve a robust yield strength, making them suitable for load-bearing structures. Their inherent resistance to atmospheric corrosion is a key advantage, reducing the need for protective coatings in many environments.
6061 aluminum square tubes are fundamental components across numerous sectors. In aerospace, they are used for non-critical structural components, fuselage frames, and support brackets. The transportation industry relies on them for truck frames, trailer bodies, and railcar components. In architecture and construction, they are specified for handrails, framing systems, and structural supports due to their favorable strength-to-weight ratio and aesthetic appeal. Furthermore, they are extensively used in custom machinery, robotic frames, and high-end consumer products like bicycle frames and tactical equipment.
Choosing 6061 aluminum square tubes provides several key benefits. Their weldability by all common methods, including TIG and MIG, offers immense fabrication flexibility. The alloy's machinability allows for easy drilling, cutting, and milling. Compared to steel, the lightweight nature of aluminum reduces overall project weight, leading to energy savings and easier handling. Combined with its long-term durability and low maintenance requirements, 6061 aluminum square tubes represent a cost-effective and high-performance solution for demanding B2B applications.
Specifications
- Standard: ASTM B221 Standard Specification for Aluminum-Alloy Extruded Bars, Rods, Wire, Profiles, and Tubes
- Alloy/Temper: 6061-T6, 6061-T6511
- Dimensions: Square tubes defined by outside dimensions (OD) and wall thickness
- Common OD Ranges: 0.5" to 8" square
- Common Wall Thicknesses: 0.065" to 0.25"
- Tolerances: Dimensional tolerances conform to ASTM B221; straightness tolerance typically up to 0.0625" per foot
- Chemistry: Mg: 0.8-1.2%, Si: 0.4-0.8%, Fe: 0.0-0.7%, Cu: 0.15-0.40%, Cr: 0.04-0.35%, Zn: 0.0-0.25%, Ti: 0.0-0.15%, Mn: 0.0-0.15%, others each 0.05% max
- Available Finishes: Mill finish, Alclad (clad with high-purity aluminum surface)
Values may vary by mill & heat; verify against the MTR for your order.
Applications
- Aerospace: Non-critical airframe components, brackets, and supports
- Transportation: Truck and trailer framing, railcar components, marine structures
- Construction & Architecture: Handrails, curtain walls, structural framing, and decorative elements
- Industrial Machinery: Robotic arms, machine guards, frames, and conveyor systems
- Consumer & Recreational: Bicycle frames, tactical flashlight housings, and outdoor equipment
- General Fabrication: Custom structures, frames, and supports
- Agricultural Equipment: Structural components and frames
- Signage and Display Systems: Structural supports and frames
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
- Proper cleaning and oxide removal essential for quality welds
How to Measure
Outside Dimensions (OD): Measure across the outside faces of the tube. Both width and height should be equal for a true square tube.
Wall Thickness: Measure the thickness of the tube walls using calipers.
Ordering Example: Specify: Outside Dimension (e.g., 2" x 2"), Wall Thickness (e.g., 0.125"), Alloy/Temper (6061-T6), Length, and Finish.
Full Example: 2" x 2" x 0.125" Wall, 6061-T6, 12' Length, Mill Finish
Tolerances: Confirm critical tolerances for OD and wall thickness with your sales representative.
Order Checklist
- Outside dimensions (width x height in inches)
- Wall thickness (inches)
- Alloy and temper (6061-T6)
- Required length (inches or feet)
- Finish (mill finish, Alclad, etc.)
- Quantity (pieces or total length)
- Cutting instructions (specific lengths, miter cuts, tolerance)
- Any certifications (MTR, material traceability)
- Special handling or packaging requirements
| Item Size & Description | Weight (lbs.)/Ft | Select Size | Qty | Price | Actions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0.373 |
Choose from predefined sizes or select custom size for manual entry |
Enter quantity between 1 and 999 | Select a Size | ||
| 0.674 |
Choose from predefined sizes or select custom size for manual entry |
Enter quantity between 1 and 999 | Select a Size |
Select a Size
0.674
Choose from predefined sizes or select custom size for manual entry
Enter quantity between 1 and 999
