6061-T6 Aluminum — Properties, Heat Treatment & Welding Guide

ASTM B209 · Published: 2026-06-30 · Updated: 2026-07-02

Quick Reference

6061-T6 is the most versatile heat-treatable aluminum alloy. Precipitation hardened to T6 temper for structural applications, marine fittings, and bicycle frames.

6061-T6 is the most versatile heat-treatable aluminum alloy. Precipitation hardened to T6 temper for structural applications, marine fittings, and bicycle frames.

Quick Facts

Category
StandardASTM B209
Density2700
Yield Strength276 MPa
Tensile Strength310 MPa

Global Equivalents & Cross-Reference

Alternative Standard / GradeAction
AlMg1SiCu Compare
A6061 Compare
HE20 Compare

Related Materials

🧮 Material Weight Calculator

Calculate the weight based on this material's density: 2700

References & International Standards

  • ASTM International. Standard Specifications for Steel & Metal Alloys. astm.org
  • International Organization for Standardization (ISO). Metallic Materials — Cross-Reference Database. iso.org
  • American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI). Steel Grade Designations & Equivalents. steel.org
  • European Committee for Standardization (CEN). EN Steel Standards & Numbering System. cencenelec.eu

Aluminum & Lightweight Alloys — Engineering Reference

Non-ferrous metals — aluminum, copper, titanium, zinc, magnesium — serve applications where steel cannot: electrical conductivity, thermal management, weight reduction, corrosion resistance in specific chemical environments. Each metal family has its own classification system and selection logic.

Key Standards

ASTM B209/B221 (Al), ASTM B152/B187 (Cu), ASTM B265/B348 (Ti), ASTM B86 (Zn), ASTM B90/B91 (Mg)

Common Uses

Electrical wiring and busbars (Cu), aircraft structures and automotive bodies (Al), medical implants and aerospace fasteners (Ti), die-cast consumer products (Zn), lightweight electronic enclosures (Mg)

Engineer's Note

Galvanic corrosion is the #1 failure mode in multi-metal assemblies. When joining dissimilar metals, consult the galvanic series: the more anodic metal will corrode preferentially. Use isolating washers, protective coatings, or select metals close together on the galvanic series.