Aluminum Alloy 6065 (UNS A96065)
Aluminum 6065 is one of the most widely used aluminum alloys due to its excellent combination of strength, corrosion resistance, and machinability.
| Chemical Composition | ||
|---|---|---|
| Element | Min | Max |
| Aluminum | 94.4% | 98.15% |
| Bismuth | 0.5% | 1.5% |
| Chromium | —— | 0.15% |
| Copper | 0.15% | 0.4% |
| Iron | —— | 0.7% |
| Lead | —— | 0.05% |
| Magnesium | 0.8% | 1.2% |
| Manganese | —— | 0.15% |
| Silicon | 0.4% | 0.8% |
| Titanium | —— | 0.1% |
| Zinc | —— | 0.25% |
| Zirconium | —— | 0.15% |
| Residuals | —— | 0.15% |
The following table provides a list of aluminum 6065 properties in both SI and US customary/Imperial units.
Click on the icon to switch between Metric and Imperial units.
| Physical Properties | Metric |
|---|---|
| Density | 2700 kg/m3 |
| Mechanical Properties | Metric |
| Tensile Strength | 310 - 400 MPa |
| Yield Strength | 270 - 380 MPa |
| Shear Strength | 190 - 230 MPa |
| Young’s Modulus (E) | 68 GPa |
| Shear Modulus (G) | 26 GPa |
| Elongation at Break | 4 - 12% |
| Poisson’s Ratio (ν) | 0.33 |
| Thermal Properties | Metric |
| Melting Point | 590 - 640 °C |
| Thermal Conductivity | 170 W/m·K |
| Specific Heat Capacity (Cp) | 890 J/kg·K |
| Coefficient of Thermal Expansion (αL) | 2.3×10-5 1/°C |
| Electrical Properties | Metric |
| Electrical Conductivity | 2.5×107 S/m |
The values in this table are approximate and can vary depending on various factors such as the specific manufacturing process and heat treatment applied to the alloy.
Advantages & Disadvantages of Aluminum 6065
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Lightweight | High cost |
| Good strength-to-weight ratio | Limited heat resistance |
| Excellent formability | |
| Corrosion resistance |
Applications of Aluminum 6065
Aluminum alloy 6065 finds application in various industries and sectors. Here are some common applications of aluminum 6065:
- Automotive Industry: Aluminum 6065 is used in the automotive industry for components such as chassis parts, engine brackets, suspension components, and body panels. Its lightweight nature helps reduce the overall weight of vehicles, improving fuel efficiency and performance.
- Aerospace Industry: Aluminum 6065 is utilized in the aerospace industry for structural components, including aircraft fuselages, wings, and landing gear. Its combination of strength, formability, and corrosion resistance makes it suitable for demanding aerospace applications.
- Construction and Architecture: Aluminum 6065 is employed in the construction and architecture sectors for various applications. It is used in window frames, door frames, curtain walls, and structural support systems. Its lightweight nature, corrosion resistance, and ability to be easily formed into complex shapes make it a preferred choice.
- Industrial Equipment: Aluminum 6065 is utilized in the manufacturing of industrial equipment such as machinery frames, conveyor systems, and support structures. Its strength-to-weight ratio and corrosion resistance make it suitable for withstanding heavy loads and harsh operating conditions.
- Electrical Applications: Aluminum 6065 is utilized in electrical applications where its conductivity and lightweight properties are beneficial. It is used in electrical transmission lines, power distribution systems, heat sinks, and electrical enclosures.
- Marine Industry: Aluminum 6065 is employed in the marine industry for boat hulls, decks, and other structural components. Its corrosion resistance to saltwater environments and lightweight properties make it a popular choice.
- Sports and Recreation: Aluminum 6065 is used in the manufacturing of sporting goods and recreational equipment. It is utilized in bicycles, golf clubs, fishing reels, camping equipment, and other outdoor gear due to its lightweight nature and durability.