Introduction to Aluminum 6063-T5 & 6063-T6 Alloys
Overview of Aluminum 6063-T5 and 6063-T6
Aluminum 6063 alloy is well known for its combination of attractive appearance, reliable strength, and excellent extrudability. Within this alloy family, 6063-T5 and 6063-T6 are the most widely used tempers, particularly in architectural and structural applications.
Both tempers share nearly identical chemical compositions, with magnesium and silicon as the primary alloying elements. The real distinction lies in heat treatment and cooling methods, which directly influence strength, hardness, and workability.
As a professional aluminum supplier, GNEE offers both 6063-T5 and 6063-T6 aluminum products for a wide range of industrial and construction uses.
Alloy Composition of Aluminum 6063-T5 vs 6063-T6
Although mechanical performance differs, the chemical makeup of 6063-T5 and 6063-T6 aluminum remains essentially the same. Minor variations in magnesium content may occur depending on production requirements, but both tempers conform to standard 6063 alloy specifications.
The strengthening mechanism relies on the Mg-Si system, which responds efficiently to heat treatment and aging.
Heat Treatment Principles: T5 vs T6
The fundamental difference between these two tempers is how the alloy is cooled and aged:
6063-T5 aluminum is cooled naturally after extrusion and then artificially aged. This produces moderate strength with excellent formability.
6063-T6 aluminum undergoes solution heat treatment, rapid water quenching, and artificial aging, resulting in higher strength and hardness.
Because of this, 6063-T6 is stronger and more rigid, while 6063-T5 is easier to bend and machine.
6063 aluminum square tube-typical properties (T52 temper)
| Property | Metric | Imperial |
| Density | 2.70 g/cm³ | 0.0975 lb/in³ |
| Ultimate Tensile Strength | 186 MPa | 27 ksi |
| Yield Strength (0.2 % offset) | 145 MPa | 21 ksi |
| Shear Strength | 110 MPa | 16 ksi |
| Modulus of Elasticity | 69 GPa | 10,000 ksi |
| Fatigue Strength (5 × 108 cycles) | 69 MPa | 10 ksi |
| Elongation @ Break (2") | 12% | |
| Brinell Hardness (HB) | 60 | |
| Rockwell Hardness (HRB) | 17 | |
| Thermal Conductivity | 200 W/m·K | 116 BTU·in/hr·ft²·°F |
| Electrical Conductivity | 58% IACS | 35 MS/m |
| Coefficient of Thermal Expansion | 23.4 µm/m·K | 13.0 µin/in·°F |
| Melting Range | 615 – 650 °C | 1,140 – 1,202 °F |
Core Application Areas of Aluminum 6063
Thanks to its smooth surface and extrusion-friendly nature, 6063 aluminum alloy is widely used in:
Architectural extrusions
Furniture structures
Railings and pipe systems
Marine components
Truck and trailer frameworks
Recreational and sports equipment
Electrical and electronic parts
For projects requiring versatility, appearance, and corrosion resistance, 6063 aluminum supplied by GNEE remains a reliable solution.
