At Focused on Machining, we take pride in our expertise in precision CNC machining, which encompasses a diverse range of materials. Our skilled operators, paired with cutting-edge technology, enable us to produce high-quality parts from aluminum, steel, stainless steel, copper, brass, plastic, and more.
Among these materials, 6000 series aluminum has become a favorite among our customers, with aluminum 6061 leading as the most requested material at our shop. In this spotlight, we’ll explore the properties of 6000 series aluminum and share insights from our extensive experience machining these versatile alloys.
An Overview of 6000 Series Aluminum
6000 series aluminum is renowned for its strength, corrosion resistance, and formability. Its primary alloying elements—magnesium and silicon—create a unique combination of properties that cater to a wide range of applications.
When compared to 7000 series aluminum, which primarily uses zinc as its alloying element, 6000 series aluminum offers a different set of advantages. The 7000 series boasts a higher strength-to-weight ratio, making it particularly valuable in aerospace applications. However, this increased strength comes at a higher cost and presents greater challenges in machining. In contrast, the 6000 series provides an excellent balance of performance and affordability, making it a go-to choice for many industries.
The Benefits and Applications of 6000 Series Aluminum
6000 series aluminum alloys are not only easier to machine than many other alloys, but they also deliver an impressive strength-to-weight ratio. This combination of properties makes the 6000 series widely utilized across various industries, including automotive, construction, marine, aerospace, and beyond. These industries often demand tight tolerances and high precision, which is why selecting a machining partner who understands the nuances of these alloys is critical.
Another significant advantage of 6000 series aluminum is its compatibility with various finishing processes. This includes heat treatment, anodizing, chem film, painting, and nickel plating. At Focused on Machining, our extensive network of trusted vendors enables us to provide a range of finishing options for your parts, ensuring that they meet your specific requirements and industry standards.
Aluminum 6061: Our Most Requested Material
Among the 6000 series alloys, aluminum 6061 is particularly noteworthy and stands out as the preferred choice for many engineers and manufacturers. Its versatility makes it well-suited for a variety of projects, especially in applications where extreme conditions—such as high-temperature environments or the lightweight properties associated with titanium machining—are not a factor. Here are some key benefits of aluminum 6061:
Strength: With high tensile and yield strength, 6061 offers structural integrity suitable for many applications.
Lightweight: The alloy’s excellent strength-to-weight ratio is ideal for parts where reducing weight is crucial.
Thermal Conductivity: Compared to many other aluminum alloys, 6061 has higher thermal conductivity, making it frequently used for heat sinks.
Availability: 6061 is available in various forms, including rectangular bars, round bars, plates, and sheets, ensuring broad accessibility for manufacturing.
Machinability: Like many other 6000 series alloys, aluminum 6061 is easy to machine, which facilitates efficient manufacturing of customer parts.
Cost-effectiveness: It is one of the more economical metal options available, partially due to its high production volumes.
Trust Us With Your Next Aluminum Part
At Focused on Machining, our expertise with 6000 series aluminum equips us to tackle even your most challenging precision machining projects. Whether your part is in the prototype stage or moving into full-scale production, we are committed to being a trusted partner you can rely on for quality and precision.
We understand that effective communication and collaboration are key to transforming your ideas into reality. That’s why we invite you to reach out to us for a personalized discussion about your next aluminum component.
Request a quote today and discover how we can turn your vision into high-quality precision parts that meet your needs!