What does T6 mean in 6061-T6?

The temper: the alloy has been solution heat treated and then artificially aged for maximum strength.

How strong is 6061-T6 compared to steel?

Its tensile strength (about 300 MPa) is lower than mild steel's (about 410 MPa), but it weighs about one-third as much, so it is strong for its weight.

6061 is stronger and suits machined parts; 6063 extrudes into profiles with a better surface but is weaker.

Yes, by TIG or MIG, but the area near the weld loses much of its T6 strength unless the part is heat treated again.

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Aluminium 6061

Also called: 6061-T6, AlMg1SiCu, EN AW-6061, IS 65032, HE20, aluminium 6061 T6

Aluminium 6061 is a heat-treatable magnesium-silicon alloy, the general-purpose choice for machined aluminium parts. In the usual T6 temper it is about one-third the weight of steel, strong for its weight, machines and anodises well, and can be welded.

Quick facts

Type: Wrought aluminium alloy, 6xxx series (Al-Mg-Si)
Common temper: T6 (solution treated and artificially aged)
Tensile strength (T6): About 290–310 MPa
Yield strength (T6): About 240–275 MPa
Density: 2.70 g/cm³
Hardness (T6): About 95 HB

Equivalent grades

Standard	Closest grade
AA (USA)	6061
EN 573	EN AW-6061 (AlMg1SiCu)
IS 733 (India)	65032 (old HE20)

Typical chemical composition

Element	%
Magnesium (Mg)	0.8–1.2
Silicon (Si)	0.4–0.8
Copper (Cu)	0.15–0.40
Chromium (Cr)	0.04–0.35
Aluminium	Balance

Working with it

Machines fast with sharp tools and gives a good finish
Anodises well, clear or coloured; hard anodising adds wear resistance
Weldable by TIG and MIG, but the area next to the weld loses much of its T6 strength
Good corrosion resistance in normal conditions

6061 or another alloy?

Alloy	Best for
6061	General machined parts, plates, fixtures
6082	Very similar; more common in Europe, slightly stronger
6063	Extruded profiles with a good surface; lower strength
7075	Highest strength (aerospace, high-stress parts); not easily welded
5083	Marine and welded structures; not heat treatable

Typical uses

Machined brackets, housings and blocks
Automation plates, fixtures and jigs
Frames and structures
Bicycle, automotive and aerospace parts
Heat sinks and enclosures

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Questions

What does T6 mean in 6061-T6?: The temper: the alloy has been solution heat treated and then artificially aged for maximum strength.
How strong is 6061-T6 compared to steel?: Its tensile strength (about 300 MPa) is lower than mild steel's (about 410 MPa), but it weighs about one-third as much, so it is strong for its weight.
6061 or 6063?: 6061 is stronger and suits machined parts; 6063 extrudes into profiles with a better surface but is weaker.
Can 6061 be welded?: Yes, by TIG or MIG, but the area near the weld loses much of its T6 strength unless the part is heat treated again.

The figures on this page are typical values for guidance, written by Diemeco from standard engineering practice. They are not a specification: confirm grades and properties with the relevant standard or the supplier's mill test certificate, and tolerances with your workshop. Last checked 8 October 2026.