Alloy series are represented by 4 digits. The most commonly used series start with 2XXX includes copper, 4XXX includes silicon, and 6XXX includes magnesium and silicon. Besides having different material composition, they also have different characteristics. Mechanical properties include density, ductility, workability, corrosion resistance, tensile strength, weldability and density. When the mechanical properties increase, the ability to extrude and surface appearance quality decreases.

6063 is the most popular of the aluminium extrusion alloys. Not only it is the most cost-effective, this alloy produces a good surface finish, is corrosion resistant and can be heat-treated for strength. This alloy is used in fabricated parts such as: storm windows, storm doors, storefronts and commercial buildings. In other words, it is primarily used in non-structural applications, but occasionally used in structural applications.

Application: Architectural, Electronic Parts, Industrial and Engineering Products, General Purpose, Household, Furniture, Automotive.

6061 is know for its structural strength and hardness. Common grades of 6061 is 6061-0, 6061-T4, and 6061-T6. “T6” indicates that the material has been solution heat-treated and artificially aged. Highly resistant to corrosion, does well with applied coatings and good weldability.

Application: Aircraft fittings, camera lens mounts, couplings, marines fittings and hardware, electrical fittings and connectors, decorative or misc. hardware, hinge pins, magneto parts, brake pistons, hydraulic pistons, appliance fittings, valves and valve parts; bike frames.

6005/6005A has properties similar to those of alloys 6106 and 6082 and can sometimes be used interchangeably with them, but 6005/6005A has better extrusion characteristics and a better mill surface finish. However it is hard to create intricate, thin-walled shapes in this alloy.

Application: Tubing for furniture, ladders, railway and bus profile structures, solar panel mounting, pylons, platforms and pipelines, products where greater strength is needed than given by 6060 and 6063.