Is 6063 strong enough for machined parts?

For light-duty parts yes, but it is softer and machines less cleanly than 6061 or 6082. For brackets, fixtures and structural parts, 6061 or 6082 is usually better.

What does T5 and T6 mean for 6063?

Both are aged after extrusion. T5 is cooled from the extrusion press and artificially aged; T6 is solution heat treated and aged, giving higher strength.

Is HE9 the same as 6063?

HE9 is the old Indian (and British) name for an alloy equivalent to 6063, and the name is still used in the trade.

Aluminium 6063: properties, tempers and uses

6063 is the most common aluminium alloy for extruded profiles. It is softer and weaker than 6061 but extrudes into complex shapes with a very smooth finish and anodises beautifully. It is used for window and door frames, architectural sections, furniture and heat sinks.

Quick facts

Type: Aluminium-magnesium-silicon alloy (6000 series)
Tensile strength: About 185 MPa (T5), about 240 MPa (T6)
Yield strength: About 145 MPa (T5), about 210 MPa (T6)
Anodising: Excellent: the usual choice for clear and colour anodised profiles
Weldability: Good
Old Indian name: HE9 (IS 733)

Equivalent grades

Standard	Grade
AA / ASTM	6063
EN	EN AW-6063 (AlMg0.7Si)
IS 733	63400 (old HE9)

Equivalents are close, not identical. Name the grade and standard on the drawing.

6063 or 6061?

	6063	6061
Strength (T6)	Lower	Higher
Extrusion of complex shapes	Excellent	Good
Surface and anodising look	Excellent	Good
Machining	Fair (softer, gummy)	Good
Typical use	Profiles, frames, heat sinks	Machined and structural parts

Typical uses

Window, door and façade profiles
Furniture, railings and display systems
Heat sinks for electronics and LED lights
Tubes and frames for light structures

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Questions

Is 6063 strong enough for machined parts?: For light-duty parts yes, but it is softer and machines less cleanly than 6061 or 6082. For brackets, fixtures and structural parts, 6061 or 6082 is usually better.
What does T5 and T6 mean for 6063?: Both are aged after extrusion. T5 is cooled from the extrusion press and artificially aged; T6 is solution heat treated and aged, giving higher strength.
Is HE9 the same as 6063?: HE9 is the old Indian (and British) name for an alloy equivalent to 6063, and the name is still used in the trade.

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 15 October 2026.