Comparing 6061 T6 and 6061 T651 Aluminum Alloys: Which Is Stronger?

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Aluminum alloys are widely used in various industries due to their lightweight and corrosion-resistant properties. Two popular options for aluminum alloys are 6061 T6 and 6061 T651. These alloys are similar in composition, but they undergo different heat treatment processes, which result in different mechanical properties. In this article, we will compare the strength of 6061 T6 and 6061 T651 aluminum alloys to determine which is stronger.

6061 T6 Aluminum Alloy

6061 T6 is a heat-treatable aluminum alloy that contains magnesium and silicon as its major alloying elements. This alloy is known for its excellent strength-to-weight ratio, good corrosion resistance, and good machinability. The T6 designation refers to the heat treatment process that the alloy undergoes, which involves solutionizing at high temperatures and then aging to achieve maximum strength.

The T6 temper results in a yield strength of around 40,000 psi and an ultimate tensile strength of around 45,000 psi. This makes 6061 T6 suitable for a wide range of applications, including structural components, aerospace parts, and automotive parts. The T6 temper also provides good formability and weldability, making it a versatile choice for various manufacturing processes.

6061 T651 Aluminum Alloy

6061 T651 is also a heat-treatable aluminum alloy that is similar in composition to 6061 T6. The main difference between the two alloys lies in the heat treatment process. While 6061 T6 is solutionized and then aged, 6061 T651 undergoes a stress relieving process after solutionizing. This stress-relieving process helps to reduce residual stresses in the material, improving its dimensional stability and machinability.

The T651 temper results in similar mechanical properties to the T6 temper, with a yield strength of around 35,000 psi and an ultimate tensile strength of around 40,000 psi. This makes 6061 T651 slightly weaker than 6061 T6, but the difference is marginal in most applications. The T651 temper also provides good formability and weldability, making it a suitable choice for parts that require machining or finishing operations.

Which Is Stronger?

In terms of strength, 6061 T6 is generally considered to be stronger than 6061 T651. The T6 temper results in higher yield and ultimate tensile strengths, making it a better choice for applications where maximum strength is required. However, the difference in strength between the two alloys is not significant in most cases, and both alloys offer excellent strength properties for a wide range of applications.

When choosing between 6061 T6 and 6061 T651, it is important to consider the specific requirements of the application. If maximum strength is needed, 6061 T6 is the better option. However, if dimensional stability and machinability are important factors, 6061 T651 may be the more suitable choice. Ultimately, both alloys offer excellent strength properties and can be used in a wide range of applications.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both 6061 T6 and 6061 T651 aluminum alloys are popular choices for various industries due to their excellent strength-to-weight ratio, good corrosion resistance, and good machinability. While 6061 T6 is generally considered to be stronger than 6061 T651, the difference in strength between the two alloys is not significant in most applications. The choice between the two alloys should be based on the specific requirements of the application, with 6061 T6 being the better option for maximum strength and 6061 T651 being the more suitable choice for dimensional stability and machinability.
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