6063 aluminum is one of the most common material options used for the custom aluminum extrusion process. Also known as architectural aluminum, 6063 aluminum is a medium-strength alloy with high corrosion resistance, weldability, and excellent workability. The quality surface finish and ability to anodize 6063 aluminum make it a natural selection when choosing a material to use in architectural projects and many others.
Applications for Custom 6063 Aluminum Extrusions
Due to its medium strength, fair machinability, and ability to be extruded into complex shapes, 6063 aluminum is used in many industries and applications. For example, 6063 aluminum is commonly extruded into channels and tubing for use in various architectural projects.
Specific applications of 6063 aluminum include:
- Truck frames & trailers
- Storage tanks
- Recreation equipment
- Piping
- Marine components
- Building projects
- Irrigation tubing
- Electrical components
- Shop fittings
- Sign frames
- Balustrading
- Roofs
- Door frames
- Railing
- Window frames
6063 Aluminum Extrusions
Its weldability, ability to be heat treated, and beneficial mechanical properties make 6063 aluminum one of the most commonly used materials for custom aluminum extrusions, especially for architectural and thin-walled applications. This popularity can be largely attributed to its responsiveness to anodizing, ease of extrudability, and excellent surface finish characteristics.
Because it can produce superior quality surface finishes, 6063 aluminum extrusions are an ideal choice for applications concerned with cosmetics and visual appeal. Through various processes, the surface finish can be altered to meet various needs. For example, 6063 aluminum extrusions can undergo acid etching to produce a matte finish, whereas the polishing process can create a more reflective surface that can be further enhanced through bright dip anodization.
6061 Aluminum vs 6063 Aluminum
While 6063 aluminum is very common in extrusion, another popular material choice is 6061 aluminum. These materials are both part of the 6000 aluminum series, meaning they share many of the same qualities. For example, they offer similar workability, weldability, and corrosion resistance. However, 6061 aluminum features higher strength than 6063 aluminum, making it more suitable for structural applications requiring stronger custom aluminum extrusions.
When choosing which material is best for your custom aluminum extrusion project, consider the following:
- 6061 aluminum has a lower heat capacity, lower thermal conductivity, and a lower melting point, compared to 6063 aluminum.
- 6063 aluminum is more easily formed into complex shapes with smooth finishes and offers better corrosion resistance.
- 6063 aluminum is more suitable for aluminum anodizing processes to produce more visually appealing building and architectural components.
- Due to its higher corrosion resistance, 6063 aluminum extrusions are the better choice for applications exposed to weather.
If you need help determining which 6000 series aluminum is best for your particular project, the experts at Tri-State Aluminum can help.
6063 Aluminum Extrusions from Tri-State Aluminum
6063 aluminum is a great choice for the custom aluminum extrusion process, offering good corrosion resistance, excellent extrudability, and the ability to be formed into various complex shapes. While this material is most commonly used in architectural applications, it can also be found in industries such as marine, electrical, recreation, and more.
At Tri-State Aluminum, we are your one-stop-shop for all your standard and custom aluminum extrusion needs. From the initial design process to cutting, fabricating, finishing, and packaging, we work with our customers from beginning to end to ensure total satisfaction. With high-tech capabilities like CNC machining, turning, stamping, radius bending, welding, and more, Tri-State Aluminum can deliver complete fabricated aluminum products to meet your needs.
For more information about our aluminum extrusion capabilities, or to learn whether 6063 aluminum is right for your project, contact us or request a quote today.
This is for general/informational purposes only: