Aluminum 3003 VS 6061
The performance differences in aluminum sheets stem from their composition. 3003 aluminum sheet is an Al-Mn series rust-resistant aluminum alloy, based on pure aluminum with approximately 1.2% manganese added; while 6061 is an Al-Mg-Si series heat-treatable aluminum alloy containing magnesium, silicon, and other alloying elements. This difference in composition directly leads to significant differences in their mechanical properties and corrosion resistance.
Comprehensive performance comparison
1. Mechanical properties
The core advantage of 3003 aluminum sheet is its ease of processing. Its tensile strength is approximately 110-130 MPa, yield strength is between 30-50 MPa, and elongation can reach 20%-30%.
This soft characteristic makes it very suitable for bending, stamping, welding, and other processing techniques. Even after simple processing, it is not prone to cracking. However, its load-bearing capacity and resistance to deformation are relatively weak, making it unsuitable for structural components subjected to heavy loads.
6061 aluminum sheet is a typical example of high strength. After heat treatment (such as solution aging), its tensile strength can soar to 310-380 MPa, and its yield strength reaches over 276 MPa, far exceeding that of 3003 aluminum sheet.
However, its elongation is relatively low, only 8%-15%, making it more difficult to process. Annealing is required after welding to relieve stress, but its excellent strength allows it to withstand complex loads and stresses.
2. Corrosion resistance
Due to the addition of manganese, 3003 aluminum sheet has significantly better corrosion resistance than pure aluminum, especially in humid environments, industrial atmospheres, and contact with fresh water, exhibiting stability and being less prone to oxidation and rust, making it a preferred choice for rust prevention. However, its corrosion resistance is weaker in strong acid and alkali environments, making it susceptible to corrosion.
6061 aluminum sheet has moderate corrosion resistance. In natural environments, it can form an oxide film for self-protection, but its corrosion resistance is not as good as 3003 aluminum sheet in marine atmospheres and salt spray environments. However, surface treatments such as anodizing and spraying can significantly improve its corrosion resistance, allowing it to adapt to more complex environments.
3. Thermal and electrical conductivity
The thermal conductivity of 3003 aluminum sheet is approximately 155 W/(m·K), and its electrical conductivity is approximately 45% IACS (International Standard for Annealed Copper). While lower than pure aluminum, this is sufficient for general heat dissipation and electrical conductivity requirements.
6061 aluminum sheet has a thermal conductivity of 167 W/(m·K) and an electrical conductivity of approximately 40% IACS. The difference in thermal and electrical conductivity between the two is not significant, and both can be used for non-precision heat dissipation or electrical conductivity components.
Common tempers
1. 3003 aluminum sheet is a non-heat-treatable aluminum alloy. Performance adjustments are mainly achieved through cold working hardening. Common states include:
- 3003-O temper (annealed state): The fully annealed state, the softest with the highest elongation, suitable for complex stamping and bending processes, such as making aluminum pots, aluminum basins, and other daily necessities or irregularly shaped decorative parts.
- Al 3003 h14 (Semi-hard): Slightly work-hardened, with slightly higher strength than the O state, while retaining some ductility. Commonly used for heat sinks, pipes, decorative panels, and other products requiring a certain strength but easy processing.
- H18 (Fully hard): Highest degree of work hardening, maximum strength but poor ductility. Suitable for simple parts requiring high strength, such as aluminum foil and bottle caps.
2. 6061 aluminum sheet can be strengthened through heat treatment. Common states are mostly related to the heat treatment process. Core states include:
- Aluminum 6061 t6 plate (Solution-aged): The most commonly used high-strength state. After solution treatment and aging strengthening, the strength reaches its peak. Suitable for structural parts bearing large loads, such as mechanical parts, aerospace components, and scaffolding.
- 6061-T651 (Stress-relieved): Based on the T6 state, tensile stress relief treatment is added, resulting in better dimensional stability and less deformation. Commonly used for parts requiring high machining precision, such as machine tool guides and precision molds.
- 6061-O temper (annealed state): soft in texture and easy to process. It is mainly used for semi-finished products that require subsequent heat treatment for strengthening, such as aluminum plate blanks and profile raw materials.
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