6061 and 7075 are both popular grades of aluminum alloy, and they are commonly used in various industries for different applications.Two of the most popular aluminum alloy grades for structural applications are 6061 and 7075. While similar in some ways, there are also large differences worth noting.
The main differences between 6061 and 7075 aluminum are the following attributes:
♦Alloy Series & Chemical Composition
♦Mechanical Properties
♦Fabrication Considerations
♦Applications
6061 vs. 7075 Aluminum: Alloy Series and Chemical Composition
| Grade | Al | Mg | Zn | Si | Cr | Cu |
| 6061 | 97.9% | 1.0% | - | 0.6% | 0.2% | 0.28% |
| 7075 | 90.0% | 2.5% | 5.6% | - | 0.23% | 1.6% |
6061 vs. 7075 Aluminum: Mechanical Properties
Both 6061 and 7075 are heat-treatable, so their mechanical properties cannot be compared accurately without assuming the same type of heat treatment. When looking at both alloys in the -T6 condition (meaning solution heat-treated then artificially aged), several noticeable differences are observed. First off is that the tensile strength of 7075-T6 is nearly double that of 6061-T6. The shear strength of 7075-T6 is roughly 1.5 times that of 6061-T6. The former is substantially harder as well.
6061 vs. 7075 Aluminum: Fabrication Considerations
6061 aluminum has good machinability, making it relatively easy to work with using standard machining techniques.7075 aluminum is more difficult to machine compared to 6061 due to its higher strength. Specialized tooling and techniques may be required for optimal results.Welding 7075 can be challenging due to its high strength and susceptibility to cracking during welding.6061 is readily weldable using techniques such as TIG and MIG welding, making it suitable for various fabrication processes.Both alloys can benefit from surface treatments such as anodizing, painting, or powder coating to enhance appearance, durability, and corrosion resistance.
6061 vs. 7075 Aluminum: Applications
6061 is commonly used in the construction of aircraft, boats, automotive parts, bicycle frames, and architectural structures.7075 is used in aircraft structures, including wings and fuselages, where strength and low weight are crucial.6061 aluminum is used in cases and frames for smartphones, laptops, and other devices.Due to its strength and durability, 7075 is used in various military applications.
Post time: Aug-14-2023